Why Moms Should Put Themselves First
Put your health first. Yes, first, above your children, your husband and your job. The longer you go without taking care of yourself, the more serious the consequences will be. Here are 10 ways you can put yourself first, and your family will benefit the most.
- Eat well. You can be a healthy role model for your children – they follow your example. If you’re not eating well, neither are they.
- Exercise. Your children should see that their mother values their health and enjoys exercise. Maybe your partner is also inspired by your higher energy. The whole family will benefit from your being less stressed and less tired.
- Make up for yourself a little personal time each day. Ask your spouse or a friend for a little time, or get a babysitter so you can recharge. Don’t feel guilty for taking care of yourself!
- Drink water. Dehydration will cause a feeling of exhaustion. To keep your body healthy and your energy high, make sure you drink at least 64 oz of water every day.
- Date night Make your marriage a priority and go out for some grown-up time. Connecting and communicating with your partner is good for your health.
- Take a hot bath or shower. Water is calming to the body and brain. Pour your favorite bubbles, light a candle and take a shower. Or take a hot shower. This little ritual can be very comforting.
- Connect with a friend. Research shows that women derive health benefits from friendships, so take some time to connect with their friends. If you don’t have time for a night out with mom, consider an online coffee date. Oxytocin, our hormone of well-being, increases after childbirth and also during friendship.
- Laugh. Children laugh about 300 times a day, while adults laugh about five. Our whole meaning of life becomes clear when we laugh. Listen to a podcast, get a joke of the day, or just have a laugh with your kids.
- Touch therapy. Feel-good hormones such as serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin are released from touch therapy, such as massage. Consider it the maintenance of the body!
- Give gratitude. Women who are grateful have more energy and happiness. Create a gratitude journal and write it down every day. Like Mom, the days are long, but the years go by too fast. Being grateful can help you appreciate a little more each day.
