You care for everyone else - Include yourself too
Whew it’s been a week.
Let’s be honest, it’s been a month – or maybe even a year (and it’s only March).
I sit down every night and contemplate having a drink or two – but my liver won’t like me if I do.
Is it just me or are things just spiraling, stressful and out-of-sync?
Are the planets out of alignment? Is Mercury in Gatorade or whatever it’s called? (Shhh, I know it’s retrograde, but I hope that made you chuckle.)
With that being said, what are you doing to take care of yourself? You do realize the importance of self-care don’t you?
Well, in case you didn’t, or forgot due to mom brain, here are some benefits:
1. Better emotional regulation
When you get rest, quiet, or even a small pocket of time that belongs to you, your brain stops living in constant survival mode. That means fewer snap reactions, less overwhelm, and more patience when someone spills juice for the third time before 9 a.m.
2. Reduced stress and burnout
Motherhood is a full-time logistical, emotional, and psychological job. Without breaks, stress hormones stay high. Regular self-care lowers that stress load and helps prevent burnout, resentment, and the “Y’all gone make me lose my mind up in here” feeling.
3. Improved mental health
Consistent self-care supports lower rates of anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion. Things like exercise, quiet time, hobbies, therapy, or social connection help regulate mood and keep your mind from getting stuck in survival mode.
4. More patience and presence with kids
This one surprises nobody who’s ever interacted with a tired human. When moms are rested and emotionally supported, they’re more able to be present, attentive, and responsive with their kids instead of just trying to get by.
5. Modeling healthy behavior for children
Kids learn how to treat themselves by watching their parents. When a mom takes care of herself, she’s quietly teaching her kids that their needs matter too. Then you don’t have to tell them to do as you say and not what you do when teaching them to care for self.
6. Better physical health
Sleep, movement, proper meals, and downtime improve immune function, energy, and overall health. Translation: fewer days feeling like a zombie that someone expects to also run a household.
7. Stronger identity outside of motherhood
Self-care helps moms stay connected to who they are as individuals. Not just “someone’s mom,” but a person with interests, goals, and personality. Shocking concept, I know.
8. Healthier relationships
When a mom isn’t depleted, communication improves with partners, family, and friends. It’s easier to set boundaries, ask for help, and maintain meaningful connections.
It’s not OK to run on fumes, Redbull, and the crumbs from your kid’s granola bar. Take some time for yourself – and don’t feel guilty about it.
A mommy who cares for herself, cares just as much for the little ones watching her.
Soooooo sis, what are you doing this week to take care of you?