As a mother or a motherly figure, taking care of children or something/ someone who is important often takes priority over our own needs. Time and energy are dedicated to ensuring well-being, happiness, and growth.
However, it is important to remember that self-care is not selfish, and it’s essential for mental and physical health. In fact, taking care of oneself is a crucial part of being a “good” mother.
Taking on mothering oneself can shift any mindset around prioritizing self-care. Mothering oneself is the act of nurturing and taking care of one’s own needs, just like a mother takes care of her children’s needs. Often, we put our needs aside to take care of our families, careers, and other responsibilities. It is just as important to take care of oneself as it is of others.
Self-care is not just about pampering ourselves, it is about overall well-being, mental health, and physical health. Here are some ways in which mothers or motherly figures can practice self-care and mother themselves.
- Prioritize Sleep– Sleep is essential for our well-being, and mothers often have disrupted sleep due to children’s needs, However, it is crucial to prioritize sleep and try to get enough rest as possible. Creating a routine
for oneself and the family like going to bed and waking up at the same time can support. Just like moms make their kids go to bed because if not they will be cranky the next day, adults are the same. - Take time for Yourself– It’s like a little time out for oneself. It is important to take some time each day for yourself to do things that make YOU happy. It could be reading a book, going for a walk, watching your
favorite TV shows, or booking a massage at Ballaura. It is OKAY to take a break from motherly duties and focus on yourself for a while. - Being Compassionate– Showing oneself the same kindness and compassion one would offer to a child. Instead of being self-critical and self-judgmental, practice compassion by speaking to oneself in a kind gentle manner.
- Connect with Others– Mothers can often feel isolated and alone. It’s important to encourage oneself to meet up with others just as children are encouraged to play with their friends.
Some lucky people get the opportunity to be with the mother love You know, that love that’s warm cookies out of the oven, hot chocolate when you’re cold, the blow on the scrape of your busted knee, and that soothing voice on the phone that tells you that everything is going to work out when you don’t think it will. That feel-good from the inside love that is safe. This love is powerful. It is important that we all make sure to have this experience with ourselves. That we mother ourselves and show ourselves this same kind of unconditional love.
