We are often able to accomplish for our children what we are unable to do for ourselves as moms. Mothers have a wonderful, God-given strength when it comes to our children, no matter how many times they feel they have “failed” in the past.
We make it a point to look after our children and their health in the midst of all of life’s pressures. We take them to their doctor’s visits, make sure they brush their teeth, and worry about whether or not they eat enough vegetables. To keep on top of the latest and greatest, we scour parenting books, blogs, and research. But what if, in the midst of caring for our own children, we forget to look after ourselves?
Self-Care as a Mother’s Priority
In the trenches of motherhood, learning to care for yourself is a difficult task. After all, there are tiny individuals who are completely dependent on you. As a result, it’s easy to neglect your own needs.
Mama, you’re doing a fantastic job of raising your children. Why is it so difficult to treat yourself with the same amount of care and attention?
Putting self-care ahead of the demands of loved ones, such as children and spouses, is counter-intuitive for most women. Mothers are nurturers and givers by nature, yet this can quickly become a situation where mom’s own needs are neglected.
While it may appear that things are as they are and that little can be done to change them, this is simply not the case. A mother who neglects her own health and wellness risks endangering not just her own health but also the health and longevity of her children and family.
Mama, you’re the fuel that keeps the car (or minivan) running. When your vehicle breaks down because you haven’t taken care of it, everyone inside will suffer. Allowing yourself to have a nervous breakdown is not a good idea. You can do everything you can to keep your children healthy and happy, but if you don’t take care of yourself, your efforts will be wasted.
It is critical to prioritise your own health in order to provide the best possible care for your children. While self-care is an overused, trendy term, I believe it is critical to redefine the ways in which you can care for yourself during a hectic season of parenting.
What are some activities that give you life and make you happy? What are some strategies to recharge yourself during a period when you are continually giving of yourself to others?
Here are some tips:
TEACH YOURSELF HOW TO SAY NO
Examine your timetable objectively. What are you doing with your time that makes you feel depleted or burnt out? What’s on your to-do list that doesn’t make you happy? Find a way to get rid of it as soon as possible. You don’t have enough time to say yes to everything. Select activities that will help you thrive, and learn to say no to those that will not.
YOU, TOO, DESERVE TO EAT
For many mothers, dinner consists of putting whatever leftovers are available on your children’s plates while cleaning the house and answering emails. Mama, if you don’t properly nourish your body, your health will suffer. If your children see you eating, they will eat better and learn the necessity of taking time to feed themselves. Make time in your day to sit at the table with your children, eat your food, and appreciate the opportunity to nourish your body.
MOVE YOUR BODY IN A COMFORTABLE MANNER
Many women believe that exercise doesn’t “count” unless it burns a particular number of calories, but where is the fun in that? Choose hobbies and movements that you enjoy and aren’t afraid to do. This can range from gardening to playing tag with your kids in the park to strolling around the neighbourhood with your infant. Activity should be beneficial to your body rather than punishing or burdensome.
SCHEDULE YOURSELF
You arrange important appointments for your kids and block off time on your calendar for tasks that must be completed. Why don’t you try it for yourself? It’s easy to feel bad about spending time away from your family doing things you enjoy, but you’ll feel better in the end. Make time for the things you enjoy, even if it’s only for a few hours once a month. Mama, you’ve deserved it.
GET OFF THE DIET FOR GOOD
Women who diet on a regular basis are more likely to have a tumultuous connection with food, struggle with body image, or even suffer from eating disorders. But that isn’t the worst of it. Dieting can become a generational problem if we don’t break the cycle, passing on bad eating behaviours to our children. Develop a good attitude toward health and what it means to nourish and care for your body and your children…diets not included.
When you put your own health first, you’ll naturally be able to help your children develop into healthy, contributing adults. Is it necessary for this to be perfect in order to be meaningful? It’s never about perfection when it comes to motherhood; it’s about learning as you go and giving yourself grace after grace.
FAQ
Why are parents responsible for their children’s health?
Parents are entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding their children. In terms of everything else, parents have some power on their children’s choices in life. It’s past time for parents to be given not only responsibility for their children’s obesity, but also the knowledge and tools they need to prevent it.
What determines a child’s health?
Physical, mental, and social well-being are all aspects of your child’s health. Most parents understand the essentials of keeping their children healthy, such as providing nutritious diets, ensuring adequate sleep and exercise, and ensuring their safety. Problems with sleep or a change in behaviour. A fever of more than 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
How parents affect children’s health?
Children with mothers who are in good to exceptional health are more likely to be in good health. Children whose parents have specific health problems or behaviours are more likely to have those same health problems, according to other research.
Why is children’s health important?
The right to health is especially important for children since they are vulnerable individuals who are more susceptible to illness and health issues. When children are protected from disease, they can grow up to be healthy adults, contributing to the growth of vibrant and productive societies.
Thank you for sharing!