5 practical ways to (realistically!) make self-care a priority

When you’re pregnant there’s a lot of mum-focused love and attention (which is great!).
Family, friends and midwives want to know how you’re feeling, whether you’re eating well, getting enough rest, finding time to unwind, etc. After baby is born, everybody (including mum) is so focused on this beautiful, teeny tiny new addition to the family, that mum’s needs often take a back seat. And most of the time, that’s how it continues to roll.
It’s easy as a mum to get so focused on looking after our babies that we forget (or don’t prioritise) care and attention for ourselves.You may roll your eyes at the term "self-care" (I used to, until I had my second baby), but trust me, when your physical and emotional energy tank is running on empty, being a mum feels so much harder. Think about self-care as servicing your car. You don’t service your car only when there’s a problem. You service it in order to keep it running well. Same goes for you! Use self-care to keep your body and mind running well. You’ll enjoy the journey of motherhood so much more if you always have enough left in your energy tank.
Five Practical Ways To Make Self Care A Priority
1. Write down a list of self-care actions or activities that a) you enjoy and b) are realistic. Here are a few ideas (bear in mind, we’re all different, and there’s no right or wrong – do what fills YOUR cup):- 30-minute massage
- A walk alone
- 10 minutes of meditation
- A nap
- Intuitive eating (listen to your body, what does it want and when?)
- A long shower or bath
- An hour on the beach
- Time alone with an audiobook or podcast
- Exercise with or without baby
- Book that Women’s Health Physio appointment
Louise Hurley runs Strong Mums in Central Coast, NSW . Learn more about Louise and Book your Trial today.
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