Mamas, when was the last time you did something awesome for yourself? You’re likely worried about the world and taking care of everyone and everything around you, and perhaps you’ve fallen to the bottom of your to-do list.
This is the time to try be good to yourself too – we all know how tough it is to give to others if we’re not looked after.
Here are some ways to look after yourself right now:
- Exercise
No one is saying you need to work out for a few hours every day, but just a few minutes can lift your mood – promise! There are loads of workouts online and on Instagram, and some great apps such as 7-Minute Workout and Nike Training Club.
- Take a breather
You don’t need to be strong all the time – it’s okay to hide in the bathroom and give yourself some “you time”. Listen to a podcast, read a magazine, or if you like meditation, listen to an app such as Headspace or Smiling Mind.
- Chat to your friends/family
For most of us, our time is a little freed up, and connections are so important. If you’re loathed to have people over then host a party on Zoom, schedule daily WhatsApp video calls with family, or do wine tastings or book club over Zoom. It will likely uplift you to be social, even if it’s only online.
- Watch more series and movies
Escapism and entertainment are good right now, even if it means watching the trashiest and most mind-numbing series. In fact, the more mind-numbing, the better.
- Dance!
Now’s the best time to dance like no one is watching. Pump up the ‘80s hits or the hip hop, and get moving. This can also count as exercise, so it’s a double bonus!
If you’re more serious about dancing and want something more than prancing around your living room, you can also find a class online. Jazz or ballet, anyone?
- Preen and pamper
Forget self-care Sundays, and bring in self-care every day! A face mask, coat of nail polish and a bubble bath can make you feel sensational. A lot of moms swear by putting on makeup or doing their hair to make them feel good, even if they’re not leaving the house, and we love this idea (though it’s perfectly okay to go bare-faced too)!
- Learn a new skill
There’s no pressure to do anything but get through these weeks intact but if you have the time and inclination, you can learn something new. There are thousands of free courses and tutorials online, and you can learn everything from taking better pictures of your kids to mastering eye makeup.
- Reconnect with things you love doing
What do you love but haven’t done in a while? Now’s the time to find happiness in things you love doing, whether it’s painting, taking photos, writing or building puzzles.
- Declutter/tidy up
If this won’t bring you pleasure, then scrap it from your list. If it will make you feel more in control and a bit “lighter”, then go for it. If there are any things you no longer need, you can donate to charity.
“Escapism and entertainment are good right now, even if it means watching the trashiest and most mind-numbing series.”
Things not to do:
- Spend too much time on social media if it’s making you anxious or angry
- Worry about that second helping of cake
- Worry if you’re spending your days dressed in pyjamas without a bra (though it’s nice to get dressed up too)
- Follow accounts on social media that don’t make you feel good
- Manage this alone… speak to a friend or family member if you’re not doing okay (and it’s okay to not be okay).
