Why Self Care is So Important as a Parent

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There is no denying that becoming a parent is life changing. It changes the way you feel, who you are and it completely changes your priorities. So it is no surprise that for many parents when babies and children come along we all too often forget about our own self care, about making time for ourselves and we soon put ourselves at the bottom of the pile when it comes to our priorities. A trip to Bella Medspa or treating ourselves to a haircut soon become distant memories, but here is why I think we should take a little more time to practice self care in our lives.

Whilst becoming a parent is undeniably rewarding in so many ways it can be utterly exhausting and busy in so many ways. Between taking care of the home, work, running errands and taking care of the kids it can feel like we have very little time left for anything else right? But self care is more important than ever when you are so busy to stop a complete burn out from happening! Giving yourself time to recharge, to rest and to be the best version of you ultimately means that everyone benefits.

Many of us (myself included) have for so long, believe that neglecting ourselves so we can give all of our energy, love and time to our children is what will benefit them the most, but what if it isn't? What if actually taking a small percentage of that love and time and giving it to ourselves actually benefitted our children too?

Self care and mental health are two things that go hand in hand and neglecting one can often lead to a negative impact on the other. We often talk about how our children learn from our behaviour, our actions and we all know that children are like sponges when it comes to soaking up everything that goes on around them. So it is so important that they see us as parents taking time our for ourselves, that they see us placing value on our own mental health and wellbeing. This in turn teaches kids about the importance of self care and about placing value on yourself.

A friend once told me "you can't pour from an empty cup" and I think that was what made me realise that it's ok to want to give your all to your kids, but if you don't have anything in the tank for yourself its physically impossible to do. If you are down beat, exhausted and always on the edge how can you possibly give your very best self to your children if you have nothing left to give?

Of course everyone parents different and all children are differently so there really isn't a "one size fits all" approach to self care. For some it might just be a hot bath, a face mask or even just an hour to read a good book with a hot drink. For others it might be a spa break, a weekend away or a complete make over now and again.  It might even include treating yourself to a new improved and smile by finally finding the time to visit the Vallance Dental Centre. The important thing to remember about self care is it is about you, it is about taking some time for yourself to do something you love that is just for you.

I think all parents can relate when I say the list of things we need to do for our children is never ending, it always feels like there is a job that needs doing or a child that needs something. Whilst those things are obviously important, it is so crucial to remember that so are YOU!

Never underestimate the power a little bit of self care can have on your own home. Yes you are a parent but you are still you too and never forget that. Taking care of you, filling up your cup, recharging your body is mind is not something to feel guilty about, it is something to be proud of, to enjoy. Happy you means happy kids and a happy space to be in.

Take care, be kind and never forgot you.

xXx