Self care is SOOO important especially for us Mamas. I think as mom's our "self care" gets pushed to the background because we are so busy tending to our kids and households. It is the first thing to go. I noticed this a lot when I had Leo. I was so busy juggling having a new baby that I couldn't even think about taking 30 minutes a day to workout or something. Let's just say I didn't have the best postpartum situation. Eventually once Leo got older I started having babysitters come a few times a week for a couple hours so I could get out of the house and have some "me time". So with Monroe I was bound to keep up my "self care" routine.
Don't Get me Wrong I Love These two But.....
Before Monroe was born I stocked up on things that I know I could realistically do at home after she was born. I got a new book, at home face masks and I got new nail polish (You guys need to try this dazzle dry it is the best polish it lasts 7-10 days). I knew the first month I wouldn't be able to leave the house on a drop of a hat, but I could escape into my room for 20 minutes to do a face mask etc. As I was finally cleared to workout I swapped the nail painting and closet organizing (yes this is what I like to do with my free time) for Beachbody home workouts.
Our babysitter had went off to college but due to a sports injury she had to come home so starting in January we started having 15 hours a week of babysitting. So the last few months I've been able to take a few hours a week to focus on "self care" and let me tell you this time around my post baby experience has been so much better. So I put together a few ways you can take time for yourself, I know everyone does "self care" a little differently but the idea is to find what works for YOU! Because what I learned is I am a WAY better Mom and wife when I get a little time for myself.
Our babysitter had went off to college but due to a sports injury she had to come home so starting in January we started having 15 hours a week of babysitting. So the last few months I've been able to take a few hours a week to focus on "self care" and let me tell you this time around my post baby experience has been so much better. So I put together a few ways you can take time for yourself, I know everyone does "self care" a little differently but the idea is to find what works for YOU! Because what I learned is I am a WAY better Mom and wife when I get a little time for myself.
I won't lie my parents live across the street, in laws down the street, and I have a sitter a few days a week. So I have a lot of help when I need it. I understand not everyone has that but I put together a few things that I do to get some "me time".
1. Working Out- For me this is #1. Spending at least 30 minutes a day to exercise makes my entire day different and gives me energy. When I do have free time this is usually the first thing I do. I haven't been to the gym since having Monroe so I joined a Beachbody group and I FELL IN LOVE with it. I am not a coach or anything like that (not here to sell you anything), but I just love that I can get a really good workout in at home. I can't wait for summer when I can take my workouts outside!
2. Meal Prep- This leads to my #2 thing which you are going to think is crazy but it makes all the difference in my life. I actually enjoy grocery shopping and meal planning. Monday's when I have my sitter here I spend time in the kitchen meal prepping for the week. I prep all my lunches Monday-Thursday and I even prep some of my breakfasts. This to me is self care cause when I eat good I feel good.
3. Painted Nails- When I look good I feel good. This is why most days I put on makeup and do something with my hair. But for some reason when my nails are painted I just feel more put together. This is a great thing when you just need a little 10 minute escape.
4. Find a Group- I joined a book club 2 years ago. What I love is we literally plan the entire year out so we have ample time to get a babysitter. I love being home with my kiddos but I LOVE getting out with a group of women and discussing life and our books!
5. A Glass of Wine and A Good Show- During the bachelor season my husband knows Monday's are my tv day. If he is home he will usually take Leo and do an activity with him and get him to bed or they will go watch a movie and let me enjoy a glass of wine and the bachelor. I used to feel bad escaping to my room at 8pm for my show but then I realized I really enjoyed that time.
6. Couples- I quickly realized that getting a babysitter isn't easy for all of our friends. So having friends over for dinner with their kiddos or getting take out at a friends and letting the kids play really can be a mini break. The kids entertain each other the adults can chat and share our parenting woes.
These are just ideas of things you can do. Do what makes you happy for some people it is escaping for a massage once a month, getting a pedicure, enjoying a bath and reading a book or simply going to Target alone without the kids. Whatever it is for you find that thing that brings you joy and carve out time. Don't be afraid to ask your husband to watch the kids or tell them your escaping to your room for some quiet time.
Cheers to a little "Me Time" Mamas
Jess
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