Mother’s Day Restore Your Motherhood
As Mother’s Day approaches, I think of the many strong, selfless mothers that I know. I think of mothers who juggle careers and family responsibilities, mothers caring for their young children 24/7, mothers who provide care for their own mothers as well as their children.
moms do it all, but also need time for themselves.
There are so many different phases of motherhood but there is a common cord of giving and self sacrifice that is universal to all mothers. Although motherhood is often joyful and provides a great source of meaning in life, sometimes the constant juggling of career, children, and responsibilities at home can become overwhelmingly stressful. For a woman, taking care of yourself after having children can feel like an impossible, daunting task. Taking the time to do the things you enjoy often seems to conflict with the time spent with your children or spouse. The truth is, learning to better care for yourself will reduce your stress and anxiety, enabling you to care better for those you love.
How can mothers take time for themselves and care for those they love? Here are some ideas to get you started on the road to self care:
OPEN UP TO A TRUSTED PERSON
It is important to have at least one person whom you can talk to when you start to feel overwhelmed. It doesn’t matter if the person is your partner, a friend, or even your own mother as long as they know how to listen and show support.
EXERCISE YOUR WAY
Another way to decrease stress is to exercise in a way you enjoy such as walking with a friend or yoga for relaxation. Whether it’s exercise or something else, set a goal of at least 15 minutes at the end of each day for yourself. This time will allow you to unwind and have renewed energy to give to your career and your children the next day.
BUILD YOUR HEALTHY FENCE
Set boundaries. Learn to say no to the things you are doing out of obligation so that you can say yes to the things that really matter to you. For example, if you are always saying a guilty “yes” to additional projects at work, talk to your boss about the kind of projects that you truly find interest in. Ask if more of your time can be allocated towards your professional goals.
GO EASY ON YOURSELF
Finally, on the days that don’t go well, take a deep breath and remember nobody does it perfectly. If it has been a particularly trying day with your children, tiptoe in their rooms while they sleep and watch. You will be reminded of their more loveable, angelic qualities. May this Mother’s Day be a starting point for taking better care of yourself. Go and find enjoyable ways to relax and decrease your stress.
Happy Mother’s Day to you and yours from New Directions Counseling Services!