Put your health first. Yes, first - about your children, your husband and your job. The longer you go without taking care of yourself, the more serious the consequences. Here are 10 ways you can put yourself first - with your family benefiting the most.
1. Eat well.You can be a healthy role model for your children - they will follow your example. If you don't eat well, neither will they.
2. Exercise.Your children should see that mother values their health and enjoys playing sports. Your partner may also be inspired by your increased energy. The whole family will benefit from being less stressed and less tired.
3. Reclaim just a little bit of personal time each day.Ask your spouse or a friend for a small block of time or get a babysitter so you can recharge. Don't feel guilty about taking care of yourself!
4. Drink water.Dehydration leads to a feeling of exhaustion. To keep your body healthy and your energy, make sure you drink at least 64 ounces of water every day.
5. Date night.Make your marriage a priority and go out for some adult time. Connecting and communicating with your significant other is good for your health.
6. Take a bath.Water calms the body and brain. Pour your favorite bubbles, light a candle and immerse yourself. This little ritual can be quite replenishing.
7. Connect with a friend.Research shows that women reap health benefits through friendships. So take some time to connect with your friends. If you don't have time for a mother's evening, consider an online coffee date. Oxytocin, our feel-good hormone, increases after birth and also during friendship.
8. Laugh.Children laugh about 300 times a day, while adults laugh about five times. Our entire attitude towards life becomes brighter when we laugh. Listen to a podcast, crack a joke of the day, or just giggle with your kids.
9. Touch therapy.Feel-good hormones like serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin are released through touch therapy like massage. Think of it as body care!
10. Give gratitude.Women who are grateful have more energy and happiness. Create a gratitude journal and write in it every day. As a mother, the days are long, but the years go by too quickly. Gratitude can help you appreciate each day a little more.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
American Council on Exercise
ACE Fit Workout Library: Top 25 Tips for Busy Moms
Cleveland Department of Public Health: MomsFirst
PUG
