Wake. Coffee. Kids. Work. Enforce learning/meetings/etc. Work. Lunch. Work. Break up kids arguing. Work. Dinner. Check on school work. Family time. Kids bedtime. Work. Shower. Bed. Repeat. Sound vaguely familiar? I kept hearing the phrase “self-care” and I would chuckle to myself. Who has time for self-care in a crisis? Sure, maybe when things get back to “normal,” whatever that is – maybe a pedicure or coffee date with a friend.
Then I was mindlessly scrolling on Instagram and had an epiphany. I could do it – it didn’t need to be a big thing… as long as it was a few minutes to myself and it made me happy. So, I have been making an effort to do some self-care a few times a day. In the morning, I make my coffee, in silence, while the kids are still asleep. I like the feeling of selecting the coffee, smelling it when it brews, pumping the syrup, and taking that first sip. During the day, I take a few minutes to play a game online. In the evening, I have a snack and watch mindless TV or take a long shower.
Self-Care in a crisis can be…
-a workout
-a book
-a conversation with a loved one
-a bath or shower
-yoga
-journaling
-coloring
-crafting
-listening to a podcast or audiobook
-playing or listening to music
-watching a movie or show
-a nap
-a beverage
-cooking/baking
-snuggling a pet
… the list is endless and it doesn’t even need to cost money.
Whatever makes you happy – please, set aside a few minutes to do it. Yes, things are wild and crazy and completely weird right now, and there’s so much that we cannot control, but taking a few minutes for yourself isn’t wasteful or silly or indulgent – it’s crucial.
(The day I wrote this article, self-care looked like a bit of quick makeup to lessen my “mombie” look, a snuggly hoodie, and an afternoon latte at my desk in a favorite cup.)
Just remember… you can’t pour from an empty cup, fellow mamas. Please take some time to fill your cup. ??
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I always enjoy your pieces.
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