Self-care for the day-to-day

Taking care of ourselves in the everyday rhythms of life is important. Finding time to do things that give life and joy can be done in simple ways that are very affective.

Being a stay-at-home mom to four young kids, I’ve realized that myself can be put on the back burner. There is much time and energy put forth towards the family and the home, however, less put forth on self.

Now,this is not about needing special pampering, retail therapy, or every weekend out with the girlfriends. That, to me, is selfishness and not just self-care. With that said, let’s find ways to care for ourselves in the most simple of ways.

THE SELF-CARE IN THE MORING

Create a morning rhythm that allows time for just yourself. As a mom I am in high demand as soon as the kids wake up. Creating a quiet hour or two for just myself in the mornings has been part of my life for many years. It does not always happen every day, but on the days I can, I take time to:

• Go outside for a brisk morning walk
• Stretch and weight train
• Read the Bible
• Talk with my husband

Getting those four things in are life-giving. They help my mind, body and soul and allow time for a little connection with my spouse. In turn I am caring for myself right away after I get up in the morning.

Some other simple self-care habits in the morning that are routine include:

• Taking care of my skin – Tallow moisturizer and a minimal make-up routine. You can find all my skin and facial products I use here.
• Drinking water and taking supplements – Hydrating and getting more vitamins and minerals right away in the morning makes me feel better.
• Nourishment – Eating a balanced breakfast (especially being a nursing mom) gives me energy for what the day brings.
• Getting dressed – Putting on an outfit and feeling “ready” for the day is caring for myself over allowing myself to stay in my PJ’s.

SELF-CARE THROUGHOUT THE DAY

Self-care can happen all throughout a day and not just in the morning hours. Finding the things that give joy can become a natural part of ones day. Simple things can be self-care like; laughing and dancing with the kids, taking a quick 10 minute power nap while all the kids rest, enjoying an afternoon latte (my regular) or making a fun meal for the family. These can all be things that may seem habitual, but can also be seen as life-giving.

• Take time for the little things – Like I mentioned above, finding little moments in the day for yourself or that bring joy can be self-care.
• Rest – Resting our minds and bodies can be so fruitful. Taking a little quiet time while kids are napping or reading a book are great additions in our rhythms to have in caring for ourselves.
• Have a hobby – A hobby that is enjoyable should be something we do for ourselves. It does not have to be time consuming things, just a pass time that brings joy. For me, I enjoy baking and gardening inthe warmer months.
• Get outside! – No matter the season getting outside is necessary. There truly is a life that comes when we step outside. Fresh air and being in nature is a beautiful thing. My kids and I get outside every day. It is incredible how it can change the sour mood we had inside to a fun and life filled demeanor.

SELF-CARE IN THE EVENING

A routine for the evening that includes some self-care helps end the day well.

• Clean up and reset the kitchen – This may seem odd for self-care, however, if we get the cleaning all done at night it makes for a much smoother morning.
• Facial cleansing and skin care – Find some simple and natural skin care pieces that are enjoyable and use those nightly. I have not always been good at this, but over the past couple years I’ve recongized the need to help my body age well, if I can.
• Relax – This can look different for everyone. For me that may include using a back massager and looking through a magazine or garden book. It may also be watching a show with my husband. It can also be reading a book.
• Create a cozy atmosphere – Set yourself up for success in caring for yourself in the evenings with a cozy atmosphere. Light a candle, enjoy a warm drink and dress yourself in comfy attire.

There are so many different ways throughout a day to care for ourselves. It can be the little things that give us joy and that fill us with life.