Every time you unlock your phone, every time you turn on the television, embedded in every convo with that one friend who has far less responsibilities than you do, is the ever-elusive and completely unsolicited “self-care” advice.
Sure, it sounds like a fantastic idea, but in a world full of diapers, soaked nursing bras and temper tantrums it’s not always practical, and that’s okay! Practicing self-care tips for moms, especially if you don’t have a “village” is extremely difficult.
Some moms are single.
Some moms are married, but are still home alone throughout the day with the littles while dad works hard to provide.
Some moms work full time, and the time that they have off they actually reserve for their children.
Some moms have husbands who firmly believe that every responsibility concerning the children belongs to the mother, and can’t imagine why she would need a break for “self-care.”
Some moms don’t have family in the area.
Some moms do have family, but cannot count on the help.
Some moms don’t have a support system to help them with their children. Actually, many don’t…
Whatever your personal reason is for not having the time to make self care a realistic component of your life as a busy mom, it is absolutely valid. This makes having the advice shoved down our throats 24/7 absolutely grueling. Yes, Carol, I do know that a trip to the spa coupled with a facial and an evening of horseback riding could do me some good, I just don’t have that option at the moment.
Now to address the elephant in the room: we DO need a break! All of us! Personally, my faith is very important to me, so I’ve found ways to indulge in self care by waking a little bit earlier and sneaking off to a hot bath with my Bible. There are little ways here and there that you can grab a moment of peace for yourself, even if it is just a moment. An hour after the kiddos are asleep, an hour before, during their nap. We can agree that the chances are far and in between, but taking them truly can prove beneficial to our mental health and wellbeing, and even to our relationships. For me, if I can read at least one chapter of the Bible for the day there is a noticeable difference in my mood and level of patience than if I am unable to. We as mothers tend to put ourselves last, and in terms of motherhood that isn’t always a terrible thing, but we definitely need to find that small window of peace, and take it when we can so that we can be our best selves for our families.