When you think about self-care, what comes to your mind first? Getting your nails done, taking a lavender-scented bath, or a spa day? What is the next thought that enters? “Oh that would be nice when I have more time, when things slow down with the kids, when work isn’t as busy”?
We've somehow collectively convinced ourselves that self-care is a luxury, something topping off an already jam-packed day of childcare, errands, work, and everything in between.
Every time we feel a tug at the idea of sneaking in that solo workout session or quiet reading time, that little voice in our heads creeps in and whispers, "Shouldn't you be doing something else? Something else that's 'productive'?"
The moment we start to think about taking time for ourselves … “Mom guilt” enters.
Guilt should not have a seat at the self-care table. It's not just a spa day, a new pair of shoes, or half an hour to yourself with a glass of wine (although, hey, I'm not knocking that).
Self-care isn't a day at the Ritz—it's about weaving tiny moments into your day that keep you centered, recharge you for the busy day ahead, and give you a sense of inner peace.
It’s the little things—a walk with a friend or a few minutes to read a book in silence.
I get it. Life is busy, your schedule is demanding, and the responsibilities seem endless. But think about the oxygen mask on the airplane metaphor: You can't help others until you help yourself.
Self-care is about your impact on the world, which starts with your personal environment, your state of mind.
The beautiful thing about self-care is that it can be tailored to you.
What's your self-care routine? Netflix binges and chatting with your best friend? A nightly skincare regimen that takes you away from everything else? My personal self-care ritual consists of a nature walk listening to a good podcast or taking the time to enjoy a nourishing meal without distractions. It is anything that allows me to be more present and joyful in my daily life.
There’s no right way to do it. It is simply a means to showing up as the best version of yourself.
“Mom guilt”: it's real and it’s relentless. We feel that we have to put everyone else's needs before our own and believe that any moment spent on us is a moment robbed from someone (or something) that needs us.
But self-care is self-preservation. It's putting a shield around the mental and emotional energy that keeps you and, by extension, your family strong and stable.
The greatest gift we can give those that we love is the version of ourselves that is peaceful, clear headed, and steadfast. By prioritizing self-care, we can show up as our best selves for our loved ones.
The shift I hope every woman can make is learning that self-care is a critical part of our ability to fulfill our duties. It's not about adding a new task to your to-do list; it's about making sure you're on that list—and not way down at the bottom.
Choose self-care for the benefits it brings to your life and the lives of those you love and (maybe more importantly) for the example it sets. By being kind to yourself, you show the world how you expect to be treated. You learn how to harness your strength and how to find peace amidst the chaos. Grab that shield, moms, and wield it with pride. It’s time to redefine self-care, not as a luxury but as a staple in our daily lives.
LyngsoFit.com