By Julie Leonard
As an Expat mum without family support, making time for me is extremely difficult, but I’ve also learned that it is essential if I want to be the best mum I can be.
When my self-care lapses, I find I am not as mentally and physically healthy. I feel run down and get sick more often. I don’t eat as well and my sleep is poor. Most of all, I am much less patient, easily irritated, more emotional and sensitive, feel more overwhelmed, and become more forgetful and distracted. Sound familiar? Left unchecked, this can lead to burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression.
You know when you are on an airplane, and they are going through the safety demonstration, and they tell you to apply your own oxygen mask before helping others? Well, that is exactly the same principle for making time for your self-care. In fact, I would say it’s a priority.
Need some inspiration? Here are 10 suggestions for self-care. Adjust according to the lockdown restrictions in your area!
Prioritize You!
As women, we often put our needs last or feel guilty when we take time for ourselves. Know that self-care is important and put it in your calendar and make plans. I now go for a monthly spa day which leaves me relaxed, refreshed, and energised.
Take a Course.
Continually learning something new has been proven to increase our levels of happiness. Whether it is a workshop on a topic of interest, a course of studies for a qualification or simply learning a new craft or hobby, making time for learning nourishes your mind.
Prioritise Sleep.
Like many of you, I haven’t had a decent night’s sleep in years. When you can, prioritise sleep and get to bed.
Have a Regular Date Night.
Book the babysitter, wear something nice, and spend time as a couple.
Set Goals.
Having a clear plan of what you want in life will prevent you from feeling stuck and will make you feel more fulfilled and happy. Don’t know where to start? Book a Life Coaching session or sign up for my next Goal Setting Workshop.
Let Go of Perfect.
There is so much pressure (often from ourselves) to be superwomen and supermoms. Let go of that and any guilt you have and enjoy this time.
Use Your Nice Stuff!
I know so many women who have dozens of bottles of nice perfumes and lotions that they never use. Use them! Pamper yourself and smell beautiful. Any make-up artist will tell you that all that stuff you are keeping quickly goes out of date. So enjoy them and feel good.
Enhance Your Natural Beauty.
Wear a flick of mascara, or a little lipstick to instantly feel better.
Breathe.
If making time for a morning meditation is taking it a step too far right now, then simply taking a moment to pause and breathe during a busy day is instantly calming. Stop. Take 3 deep breaths. Then continue to breathe deeply and calmly.
Exercise.
Here at Über Moms, we know how important it is to be fit and healthy. Find a gym with a creche, go out for a walk, try an Über Moms class, sign up for one of the many Über Moms running events, or simply put on your favourite tunes and dance around your apartment.
Taking care of ourselves gives us the resources and energy to be the best women, mothers, partners, sisters, friends, and colleagues we can be. So start prioritising today!
Julie Leonard
Julie Leonard is a Life Coach, aromatherapist, seminar facilitator and speaker with over 25 years of experience in psychology, health and coaching. She is from Scotland and is currently based in Munich. Her passion is happiness and supporting women all over the world to transform themselves and their lives in order to live to their full potential and happiness. Check out her business here and remember that Über Moms benefit from a 10% discount on Life Coaching sessions.