As a parent, juggling multiple responsibilities for home and work is quite taxing. However, as a nutritionist by profession, I believe that self-care is very important for all types of people so I make sure to engage in activities that are relaxing and healthy.
I admit there are times that I feel like there is a lack of time because, by the time I finish attending to my family’s needs, there is no more time to do anything else.
It's also hard to engage in self-care activities when one is faced with anxieties like the ones I experienced about the stability of my husband’s work abroad. Financial worries about her children’s tuition are also hindrances to having a peaceful rest.
But, by being grateful to our God and by having a strong faith in HIM, I know that God is a great provider in all our needs so I just let go and let God do the rest. With this in mind, I now focus on positive things and take time to focus on my well-being.
A simple 30 minute walk daily to 1hr 1/2 walk (2-3x a week) with my pet dogs is good for my sanity. Taking a walk with my dogs is a stress reliever. Getting some fresh air and Vitamin D from the morning sunlight improves my immune system.
As a personal rule, I also see to it that I allow some "ME time" just by being alone walking, watching Netflix, or having a good pedicure or a back massage. These activities help me relax and achieve quality rest.
Aside from boosting my physical health through mindful eating and having routine exercise is a must like daily walking and from YouTube "Muscle watching". Having a “Me Time” provide me a break from stress, I just enjoy the simple pleasures that make me happy especially taking good care of my family and pets too which I considered a good soothing feeling that needs to be the best version of yourself and that's good self-care.
True self-care is manifested when you're happy with what you do and knowing when to put yourself first.