Bonjour lecteurs! Taking care of the family usually means early hours in the morning, a busy schedule and an endless list to do. Too often, mums don’t prioritise themselves. But you know what we say, a happy mum makes a happy family. Self-care is not being selfish. It is one of the greatest gifts your family can receive. When you protect your health and energy, the whole household feels la dfférence. Even more if you are also looking after an extended family, like grandparents (helping them while in home care or even doing some chores for them). The runway to Christmas is l’exemple parfait that you must not forget yourself. It’s packed with deadlines and events to please others. But here are 5 raisons why taking care of yourself is better for your family. Regardez.
Why Wellbeing Matters
Most days feel pretty full, and the mental burden can slowly escalates without anyone realising it. Inside, you can feel overwhelmed, ready to burst at any moment.
In between all the stuff to remember (non-uniform day, shopping, the next check up for a dental crown to book or even an eye test0, mums are constantly juggling it all.
But a balanced lifestyle means more peace and when you feel calm and positive, you end up being more productive. You become a better mum, one who is patient and warm rather than a stressed version of mumzilla shouting instructions.
Create Space For Yourself
Too often, parents feel like being pulled in multiple directions, especially during hectic school years. It’s never ending.
But even something très simple like a break can make a huge différence to your day and your family. Personnellement, my happy place will always be out and about. It looks like an early morning walk or a bike ride in the country to kickstart the day and feel good inside out.
Maybe you are more of a homey person and would appreciate a little corner of the house just for you? Create a space just for yourself, a sanctuary where you can restore, even just for a cup of tea. Parents often struggle to integrate those simple moments in their schedule. But I shared many times all my best self-care rituals to recharge and come back stronger than ever.
Building a Culture That Values Self-Care
Don’t be fooled; children are very good to pick up emotion. After all, you are their exemple, their go-to, especially when they are little.
So c’est important to teach them self-care so that they know to take care of their own needs. This way, you also help their développement émotionnel.
Honesty should be at the centre of all. There is no shame to show emotions and we should teach children to communicate their needs. By setting up boundaries, you also teach them to look after themselves now and in the future. They will cope better as adults with what life demands of them.
Recharge Without Guilt
I am sure you felt some mum guilt in your experience. Sadly, it never goes, whatever age your children are. But making yourself la priorité sometimes won’t change the world.
If anything, you will come back better and lighter. So whatever does it for you, a spa day, a gentle walk on your own, a long bath with a glass of wine…go for it! You need to recharge your batteries and come back to your tribe stronger.
I was very worried on my first ever solo trip a few years ago. But it was such a blessing for all of us. The boys loved the peace in the house and I had a blast trying new things like horse-riding in the mountains.
A Kinder Way Forward
The notion of self-care is more accepted nowadays. It’s proven that when personal wellbeing is taken care of, the family feels better too. Caring for your mental health has so many benefits in the long term.
By practising self-care, you also care for the household. It’s the base to a happy family, a place where you are valued as you should be. Motherhood certainly has its hurdles at times, but it should never end up being a burden.
Taking care of yourself is better for your family for so many other reasons. So, what will you do to look better after yourself today?
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