11 Things All Moms Need To Do – And No, They Aren’t Selfish
Right from feeding your baby to maintaining a clean room, taming toddler tantrums to unraveling your teenager’s moodiness, parenting is super challenging. Amidst all this, moms often forget that there’s someone else who needs their care apart from their kids – themselves!
Let’s face it – being a mom is as tiring as it is rewarding. You are an individual first, which is why you still need to care for yourself like any other person. After all, if you are drained out and on the verge of a nervous breakdown, how will you look after your children?
Check out our list of ways to destress that all moms need to incorporate into their lifestyle. They seem like little things but can make a monumental difference!
Absolutely Essential Things All Moms Must Do
1. Set boundaries
Yes, moms are everything to their kids– and to their families in general. However, there’s only so much you can do in a day. Do not allocate time that you do not have, and learn to say no when the situation demands it.
2. Take out time to relax
Just because there are never-ending chores to be done doesn’t mean that you should work around the clock. Set aside at least an hour or two for a nap or any other activity that rejuvenates you.
3. Ask for help when you need it
No matter how good of a multi-tasker you are, you cannot should not do it all. Ask your spouse to help out with household chores and taking care of the kids. And for those of you who are single moms, enlist help from your neighbors, friends and parents.
4. Get moving
Exercise is essential for a happy and healthy mind and body. Bonus: doing it for as little as 20 minutes every morning is enough to fuel you for the rest of the day.
5. Eat what you love
In the pursuit of making or planning meals that your kids love, it’s only too easy to put yourself last. Make sure that at least one item on the daily menu is something you love.
6. Laugh at your kids
Kids do a lot of silly things. Laugh at them; it’ll teach them to not take themselves too seriously. Plus, it’ll help them develop a sense of humor.
7. Let them make mistakes
Instead of being a helicopter parent, let your kids make their own decisions. And when they make mistakes, let them take responsibility for the same.
8. Pamper yourself
Just like your kids deserve the best, so do you. Put yourself first every once in a while. Go take a trip to that spa or buy those designer clothes you’ve been eyeing since forever.
9. Explore You
Stop putting off self-exploration till your kids grow up. Start doing the things you always wanted to, be it taking up a new hobby, or a new career. Since kids learn by example, you will also underline the importance of self-awareness and the pursuit of passion.
10. Engage in a creative pursuit
Who said art and craft is just for kids? All humans enjoy—and benefit from— creativity. Psst, have you tried an adult coloring book yet?
11. Have a life outside of your kids
Believe it or not, it is still legal for you to meet your friends. And of course, do make time for the occasional date with your hubby or love interest.
Remember, you can’t take care of anyone when you don’t take care of yourself. You are important.