Firstly, let’s acknowledge International Women’s Day, and how many of us as mums are so busy taking care of our little kids and others, that we tend to neglect or don’t prioritise our health and self-care. Being a mum, especially with little kids is undoubtedly demanding, leaving little or no personal time. Yet, prioritising mother self-care is a necessity that directly impacts our own and our family's overall well-being, whilst boosting maternal confidence. Here are some simple yet effective tips tailored to busy mums to rejuvenate both body and mind.
1. Check in with yourself
There are always a hundred things going on and having to juggle multiple priorities and responsibilities requires your time and energy when you’re a mother. Taking the time to check in with yourself and reconnect with where you’re at is the first step of any self-care, how are you feeling? Are you tired/irritable or pushing yourself too hard and there’s a running theme or underlying issue? Do you just need to take a moment to rest and a breather to recharge? Remember to be kind and compassionate to yourself, just like you would with a good friend.
2. Get your body moving with exercise routines
Exercise emerges as a cornerstone of effective self-care as research shows that even 30 minutes a day of walking positively impacts your well-being and mental health, and serves as a potent mood enhancer. From attending fitness classes to embracing yoga or exercise sessions or simply strolling with your baby in tow with fresh air, incorporating exercise routines into your schedule is paramount. Exercise need not be elaborate or intense; even light home stretches suffice. The aim is to elevate heart rates and invigorate your body, fostering mental clarity and holistic well-being, and our minds stronger.
3. Nourish with Nutrient-Rich Foods
In the hustle of a mother’s life, unhealthy eating habits often sneak in, jeopardizing both health and confidence. Prioritizing a well-balanced diet becomes imperative. Aim for three wholesome meals daily, rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. If you’re not able to fit this in, then try and stock up on nourishing snacks like nuts, yogurt, or fresh fruits to curb unhealthy cravings. These minor adjustments empower you to reclaim control over dietary habits, amplifying overall well-being and health.
4. Revitalize with Skincare and Beauty Regimens
Radiant skin isn't just a luxury—it's a confidence booster for mothers. Embracing skincare routines can work wonders in nurturing skin health and elevating self-assurance. Here's a lineup of essential skincare products to consider:
- Cleansers: Begin your skincare journey with a gentle cleanser, meticulously formulated to eradicate impurities while preserving skin's natural oils. Opt for a cleanser tailored to your skin type for a refreshing, balanced feel sans harsh stripping effects.
- Moisturizers: Hydration forms the bedrock of optimal skin health. Invest in a nourishing moisturizer that suits your skin and is infused with natural elements like aloe vera or jojoba oil, renowned for their hydrating prowess and protective barrier against dryness and external aggressors.
- Sunscreen: Shielding skin from harmful UV rays is non-negotiable. Prioritize daily sunscreen application to thwart sunburn, premature aging, and potential damage. Opt for broad-spectrum formulas boasting SPF 30 or higher for comprehensive UVA and UVB protection.
- Lipbalm: Hydrating your lips is just as important, making you feel nourished and confident. Here are some great nourishing lip balms with Choc Coconut and Rose Blush flavours made of eco-friendly ingredients and materials that are also great for the environment.
- Organic makeup good for baby and skin: As a busy mum on the go, if you’re not able to spend too much time putting on makeup and getting dolled up, having some handy quick beauty applications like organic creams/light foundation and a touch of blush is great for your skin and baby and will make you feel and look great while still managing to complete all the daily tasks.
- Eyelashes – Having a set of beautiful lashes boots confidence. A quality mascara speeds up the process of putting it on! The best alternative to mascara is putting on these everyday wear eyelashes from Youthphoria, looking natural and beautiful. “Youthphoria’s false eyelashes can enhance your everyday look, giving you that natural radiance with very little effort and time” – Shirley founder of Youthphoria"
5. Restful Rejuvenation and Sleep
Motherhood demands relentless dedication, yet ample rest remains non-negotiable. Aim for 6-8 hours of nightly sleep to recharge energy levels and foster mental serenity – we know it’s hard if you have a new baby if not continuous then as a total amount. Alternatively, integrate power naps into your routine for quick energy replenishment throughout the day. Prioritizing mother self-care amid the whirlwind of motherhood isn't selfish—it's an act of love, essential for nurturing health and confidence. Embrace these tailored strategies to elevate your well-being and embark on a journey of holistic self-nurturance.
6. Indulge in personal time/treats
Self-care transcends pampering—a vital investment in oneself and feeding your spirit. Try carving out moments for activities that replenish your spirit and amplify confidence – things that you can enjoy even if it's some time to yourself to listen to your favorite music, or having a bath uninterrupted. Prioritizing self-care not only benefits you but also enhances your ability to care for others. It could be finding timeout or when the baby/child is napping to relax on a hammock swing and read your favourite book. If you’re able to have the kids be cared for by someone else (that you can trust), arrange some time out with your partner or with your girlfriends, reminding of who you are when you’re not a mum.
7. Practice Gratitude
Sometimes, it’s important to take a step back and be thankful for the good things happening in our lives, which gives us a better perspective when facing challenges. Gratitude involves being thankful and appreciating the positive aspects of our lives which helps with emotional balance, being happier, improvement in physical wellness, and a more positive outlook. Practicing gratitude can be as simple as paying a compliment or saying thanks to starting each day with gratitude by thinking of something to be grateful for or starting a gratitude journal.
8. Reach out and connect with others
It's ok to ask for help, as the saying goes "it takes a village to raise a child", so it’s important to reach out for help when we need it – as sometimes motherhood is a lonely journey, and just knowing that there are people who want to listen to you and try to help is comforting and helps to de-stress. Having sound mental health is the key to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. If you’re feeling down or struggling with your mental health, you can reach out to someone you’re comfortable talking to whether it’s a friend, a professional, or any of the resources available online, in person via email, or phone, including Beyond Blue, Panda and Headspace.
Prioritising self-care is not just a luxury, but a necessity, especially for busy mothers juggling multiple responsibilities. By implementing these eight mother self-care tips outlined in the article, we can enhance both physical health and mental well-being, ultimately boosting confidence and ability to navigate the demands of daily life. Remember, a mother’s self-care isn't selfish; it's an essential investment in oneself that benefits not only the individual but also the entire family. A happier, healthier you will undoubtedly radiate positivity and resilience in all aspects of life.