Parentlife

parentlife

WITH STACIE GAETZ

“Whatever brings you joy, you can afford 30 minutes to do it, even if that means dropping something less important off the list”

Three simple ways to make self-care a priority

(even when you have no time)

The best gift you can give your kids this holiday season is taking care of yourself.

That may sound corny, but don’t stop reading. I promise this column is full of practical ways you can take time for yourself and therefore set an example for your children when they need to balance responsibility and self-care.

Our goal as parents is to raise our children to be exceptional human beings who leave the world better than they found it, right?

It’s impossible for them to do that if they don’t learn to care for themselves, and how can they do that if you are constantly running yourself ragged and never filling your own tank?

However, during the holidays when everything on your very long to-do list revolves around making the season magical for everyone else, self-care is probably the last thing on your mind.

I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be.

Here are three simple and realistic tips that you can use to fill your own cup during this busy time of year.

Find your “thing”

Decide what it is that helps you relax and then set aside a half hour a day to do it. Whether it’s reading a book, having a bath, a hobby you love, pouring a glass of wine and drinking it in silence.… Whatever brings you joy, you can afford 30 minutes to do it, even if that means dropping something less important off the list.

Move your body

We’ve all heard it 1,000 times: “Exercise is good for you.” The reason this statement is repeated so often is that it’s true. This doesn’t mean you have to join an expensive gym or buy the latest equipment. There are many easy and quick ways to get your body moving for free. At-home yoga, going for a short walk or run or even dancing with your kids can be invigorating, increase serotonin levels and improve sleep. (We could all use a bit more of that!)

Just breathe

Take some time to just be. Whether this takes the form of meditation or taking 10 deep breaths in and out before you go to sleep, being mindful of your breath can help you put things in perspective and metaphorically press the reset button. When your job description as a parent is to take care of other small humans, it can seem selfish to make time for yourself, but it isn’t. It’s just basic self-respect and that is one thing you want your kids to learn from you – so start leading by example. life

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