Did you know that having children under the age of 5 is a risk factor for depression in women?
My mantra is “Nothing should suffer”. I try to be dedicated to my job, my marriage, kids, relationship and faith, not an easy task by any standard. As moms, it’s second nature to be selfless, taking care of everyone else but ourselves. With time though, we run the risk of breaking down or getting resentful if we do not find a way to relax and refresh. Here are some ways I let off stress and stay rejuvenated.
Be intentional about self-care
There will always be something to do. The to-do list never ends. However, in the midst of everything, I try to eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated and get an average of six hours of sleep daily. I’ve also learnt to delegate and resist the temptation to micro-manage my domestic staff. Your body needs rest; train your mind to believe that you deserve it.
Keep the kids engaged
A disclaimer: I don’t advocate kids getting glued to the TV. However, I think it is important for kids to have activities that they enjoy without your presence and that those activities are incorporated into their daily routine. If they’re old enough to play outside with their friends, let them. If it’s spending time with some hobby, supervised by the nanny, let them. Make the most of that period to get time off.
Squeeze in me-time daily
I find time to sit all by myself to just breathe. It could be as short as ten minutes. During this period, I do something I love. It could be listening to my favorite music, taking a power nap or catching up on gist on social media. Just find that time to do something you absolutely love in peace and quiet.
Utilize your official travel
While it’s a tad stressful to be out-of-town when the bulk of running the house falls on me, it is always an opportunity to unwind. When possible, try not to travel with the kids. It will help you focus on the purpose of the travel and get some quality time to sleep.
See Also: 7 Tips For Traveling Without Baby
Do not waste the weekends
Weekends present an opportunity to rest and unwind. If it is not extremely important to attend that wedding or occasion, maximize the weekends by ensuring that you catch some extra hours of sleep and spend time just enjoying the company of your family. You can also use the weekends to get a facial treatment, spa session, manicure and pedicure session, wash your hair, take a long bath or get a massage.
Watch a lazy movie
Friday nights are perfect for lazy movies. I don’t have to go out to the cinema for this. I typically curl up on the couch with my husband and a little healthy snack to munch while I relax. Your body and your mind will thank you for this.
Join a support group (or a Blazers & Baby Circle ;))
My church has a couple’s ministry that holds monthly meetings in the home of members. I find that listening to couples share their experiences in marriage and rubbing minds together in a relaxed and non-judgmental setting helps me relax.
The important thing to remember is that phase of juggling work, motherhood and marriage will pass, someday. Realize that it’s all a journey and we need to enjoy the ride. How do you practice self-care? How do you make the time?
