I became a mom over 12 years ago, and it has been the most blessed journey I have ever taken. But with all the change, discomfort, love, and empathy that has transpired since then, nothing has changed me as much as learning to love and care for ME. Some may find it selfish, but those are the ones who probably need that self-love the most.
There’s no way for us, as moms, to inspire and encourage those around us if we are not at our very best.
We can try, and we can multi-task like nobody’s business but at some point, we will crash and burn and it won’t be pretty. We are pulled in so many directions in one day and the thought of setting aside dedicated time to care for our needs seems ridiculous. For whatever reason, this is a perception that we have placed in our minds that really has no merit.
The only person who can truly offer the care that we want and need is us.
We know exactly what will make us feel better and what will recharge our energy like never before. So it’s only logical that we make the time for it once and for all. I have to be honest, I once thought that taking 30 minutes or more for myself would result in pure chaos but that was totally wrong, not much really gets messed up. Even 60 minutes here and there won’t cause a natural disaster.
You’re a mom, an amazing mom, no matter how frazzled you are, but what if you could get even better with care–a manicure, a massage, or even a great book. I got to the point where one day blended into the next and I had no idea what had happened. I was there to help my family, my clients, and my friends and always found an excuse as to why I couldn’t get a workout in or do something I really wanted to do. The thing is that I was the one setting my schedule and making the plans, and I was the one who could set aside the time for myself as well. Only you know what will do it for you. When I work with my clients I help them with what I call relaxation rituals. These were the treasured jewels that made each day better for me.
Take a notebook, a pretty one, and on each page I want you to write one thing that you love doing. Mine says drink tea, read, paint my nails, etc. They say it takes 21 days to create a habit, so for the next 21 days, I want you to open that book every day when you know you have a bit of free time (don’t get crazy, even 5 minutes will do). You are randomly opening the book, so whatever page it lands on is what you will do for that time that you have. And if you get another bout of free time that day, do it again. Keep doing it until you make it a habit, and get yourself to the point where you actually schedule something amazing to care for yourself in your calendar every day.
Self-care is the new buzzword for 2019, so enjoy it, make it happen, and if anyone questions you simply tell them you have a meeting at that time – no one needs to know your secret!
With love and light,
Adita
