Motherhood comes in many forms; whether you’ve given birth, adopted a child, or fill a motherly role for a family member or friend. The hope of most mothers (biological or otherwise) is to raise their child to be a self-sufficient and responsible adult—an enormous undertaking that usually (okay, always) involves a lot of personal sacrifice. A mother’s love is the driving force that allows her to push through overwhelm, exhaustion, and frustration, often sacrificing her own needs and wants for those of her child. Through it all, being a mother is one of life’s greatest and most rewarding gifts.
A “Good Mother”
One might describe motherhood with these words: protector, role model, cheerleader, and unselfish. In fact, describing a mother as “selfless,” is one of the greatest compliments that can be given to a mother. Although meant as a compliment, it also conveys the expectation that a “good mother” shouldn’t put her needs above her child’s. Obviously, no mother would think twice about caring for her children above anything else, but what about caring for herself?
Self Care
Self care is a trending phrase, and for good reason. It’s important for everyone, especially for mothers. For the person upon whose shoulders often falls the responsibility of maintaining the house, buying groceries, preparing meals, shuttling kids, helping with homework, comforting crying babies…the list is endless. All this while also being a spouse, perhaps, and/or pursuing a career. While being a friend, a daughter, a sister. There are fathers who play this role as well, of primary caretaker. There are very supportive fathers who share those responsibilities and support their partner in every way. Self care is essential for both. Only with self care can we be our best selves for our children. Read on for some ideas.
Connection - Motherhood is an individual journey with both unique and shared experiences. These experiences are part of what connects us as mothers. Sharing the joys and trials with someone that truly understands, is one form of self care. It could be a phone call or meeting for coffee. Or get crazy and plan a girls’ trip!
Time - A mother is always in demand. Perhaps less so as children get older, but still, in demand. Take some time, even 30 minutes, to take a hot shower, sip (hot) tea, go for a run, read a book, or watch an episode of your favorite show. What makes you feel like YOU?
Sleep - For mothers with young kids this may seem impossible, but they will sleep eventually, and so should you. Prioritize your sleep. The dishes and laundry can wait. Watching one extra episode on Netflix isn’t worth it (every night). Sleep is essential for healthy hormones, metabolism, energy and mood. Try a white noise app, use blackout curtains, and limit caffeine after 12pm. Your body will thank you, and so will your children.
