Self Care Practices to Consider

Self-care is crucial for moms to recharge and maintain their well-being, while managing the demands of parenting. Here are some self-care practices that you can incorporate into you routine!

1. Mindfulness and Meditation: Taking a few minutes each day for mindfulness or meditation can help reduce stress and increase overall well-being. While we are stationed in Wyoming, in my husband's mom's backyard, I have been really focused on how to be more mindful. Every morning I wake up, and I always take just a few short minutes to really set my tone for the day. I open myself up to opportunities, and I affirm to myself who i am, and how loved I am.

2. Physical Exercise: Engaging in physical activity, whether it's a workout, yoga, or simply going for a walk, can boost mood, energy levels, and overall health. I am 25 weeks pregnant, and all i can think about is how i want to move! I guess it is the lack of being able to move that really makes you crave it, right?! Well ive made sure I wasnt idling myself. I get outside as MUCH as i possibly can! Just for myself. It is my number one way i like to gain my esteem and work off any built up emotinos.

3. Pamper Yourself: Set aside time for self-pampering activities like a bubble bath, a DIY facial, or painting your nails. These small moments can provide a sense of relaxation. I tend to sneak myself into my MIL extra bathroom in the evenings, after my boys fall asleep in the camper, so i can simply take a relaxing bath. These moments have been very small, and i wish i could get some extra time, but i am very grateful for what time i do get!

4. Reading or Listening to Music: Escaping into a good book or listening to favorite music can be a great way to unwind and take a mental break from daily responsibilities. And depending on what book you choose to pick up, you can gain some really great inspiration on how to help yourself, your family, your home. It can bring a really great sense of peace.

5. Connecting with Friends: Social connections are vital for mental health. Schedule time to catch up with friends, whether it's through a call, video chat, or a meet-up. I am currently in a town where i used to live, and knew a lot of amazing people. Traveling the country, i am not able to really get out and visit my friends. But i can apply myself more electronically. I can send a quick shout out and reconnect online. My amazing sister has been calling me, just to check up, and it seriously has been one of the most relieving things, just to hear her voice and her sincerity in her calls.

6. Creative Outlets: Engage in a creative hobby you enjoy, whether it's painting, crafting, writing, or playing a musical instrument. Creativity can act as a therapeutic outlet. Just make sure it is something you are currently interested in. I love painting, but the idea of it right now, just seems ridiculous, so i have to find something else that seems more realistic to bring me JOY!

7. Nature Time: Spending time outdoors, even if it's just sitting in the garden or taking a short walk, can have a rejuvenating effect and help clear the mind. This is my next biggest thing. Nature is SO important for my mental health. There is this little garden bed right behind our camper, Where no one can see me. I go out there every single day, to just sit and enjoy this one little spot in my MIL backyard. Its the most peaceful, and if that was all i could do, then i am glad to say i did it!

8. Healthy Eating and Hydration: Nourishing the body with healthy foods and staying hydrated is a form of self-care that supports overall well-being. Self Explanitory!

9. Setting Boundaries: Learning to say no when needed and setting boundaries around personal time is essential for preventing burnout. I am learning this one right now. I have been bombarded daily while we are traveling. And owning a business, requires attention from team members, clients, customers, and leadership. Aside from being a full time Mama. I have realized team members have assumed i was a Full time Business-person rather than a full time mama with a business on the side. And it created some really big problems in business, and relationships. When i set boundaries for myself, It wasnt ideal for them, and it defintiely angered some, hahaha! But it was right for my ability to continue, and eventually those people came around, and saw my boundaries in a different light. and I was able to become an example of the Need to set boundaries.

10. Quality Sleep: Prioritize getting enough sleep. Creating a bedtime routine for yourself can improve the quality of your sleep. Full time mama of 5 boys, and pregnant in my second trimester, This has been a big tool in my self Care!

The key to effective self-care is consistency and finding activities that genuinely recharge you. It's not selfish to set boundaries and take time for yourself—it's necessary for maintaining mental, emotional, and physical health. I hope i have at least encouraged you a little, to prioritize self-care, to be better equipped to handle the demands of momhood, while maintaining a healthy balance!