I love being a mum, its the best thing in the world, nothing even comes close. However, it does come with neglect....SELF neglect! Now my daughter is now four I am really reflecting on those times where I really didn't take care of myself as much as I should have and thought I would put together a little blog on ways we can make sure that we are caring for ourselves too!

Are you taking care of yourself?

It was a typical morning around the house. Between dressing and feeding the kids and making herself look presentable, this mum wondered if she even knew who she was anymore. She enjoyed her children, but always felt like she lived in the mummy fog and had no time for herself. She felt guilty about being away from her kids even for 30 minutes here or there, but sometimes she asked herself, “Where does a mother go to resign?”

Between endless laundry, grocery shopping, cleaning spit-up and spilled milk, keeping up with schedules, bath time, chasing children, and preparing meals, many mums wonder exactly when they will get time for themselves. They feel that if one more person says, “In the blink of an eye they will be grown, so cherish every moment,” they aren’t sure how they will respond.

Self-care in pregnancy and motherhood pretty much doesn’t exist. It’s so easy to get very busy when there is a little one on the way. Taking care of yourself is so often the last thing on the list and is easy to neglect when life gets busy. You’re not the first (or won’t be the last!) mum to-to be who hasn’t bought a new outfit since 2013.

Taking care of YOU mama is just as important as your job caring for every other member of your family, they all need you, and you are the core in all that is your family. 

A mums role is not easy. But remember, mums have needs, too. If you want to care for your family well, take good care of yourself. Believe it or not, that is what will help lift you out of the fog and prepare you for whatever comes next.
 

Start with these …

Fresh air and sunshine

So simple. You can definitely do this one! It doesn’t even need to be for long. Walk outside and sit on the patio in the sun. 5 minutes is fine. The vitamin D and fresh air will do you wonders.

Do something daily that fills your soul and makes you smile. 

There are lots of options, from enjoying the outdoors to silently soaking in a tub. Believe it or not, this will help you feel better about yourself and your parenting.

Get enough rest

Don’t over do it mama! Growing a baby takes an enormous amount of energy. Power naps on the couch are amazing if you are that kind of girl. But even eyes closed and feet up for 15 minutes will help, even if you can’t get to sleep.

Reduce your stress

You have enough going on! Now is a great time to setup your boundaries, say no to things that don’t serve you and ease up on the commitments.

Basic Beauty

If you’re not doing the basics when it comes to taking care of your body, it’s a good time to start! It doesn’t have to be a hardcore or expensive routine. Just get into the habit of using a nice moisturiser or treating your hair once in a while.

Avoid wishing away the moments. 

Life is short. Instead of wishing time away, embrace where you are and make the most of every moment. Every season has its challenges. Instead of viewing the challenges negatively, surround yourself with people who can help you walk through them, embrace them and successfully reach the other side.

Go easy on yourself

Just slow it down mama. Rome wasn’t built in a day and even though you have lots to do, if you’re not taking care of yourself, no-one will! Ease up and enjoy the experience. Your baby will be here before you know it and there is a lot to look forward to. But in the haze of nappy changes, breast pumps and loved up cuddles on the couch, don’t forget to love yourself too!

Get moving

Play, run around. Go for a short stroll, have a dip in the pool. Whatever it is, its so important to move your body.

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