Since the beginning of time, women have been the primary caretakers, not just of their families, but of society. Men are expected to go to work and bring home a paycheck, but women? Women are expected to contribute financially, keep the home looking like no one lives in it, raise the kids, cook the meals...and the list goes on.
So, what are a few things we can incorporate into our daily lives to make sure that we are taking care of ourselves as well? Whether you're married or not, have kids or not, are a business woman or a stay-at-home-mom, self-care is important not just for you and your mental health, but for the good of everyone around you.
I don't have kids, but I am married, with two dogs, and my own business. It doesn't matter how busy you are, you make time for what really matters right? Here are a few of the things that I do throughout the week to take time for myself:
-Weight lifting 4 times per week, stretching/yoga/pilates at least once a week.
-Journal writing. Whenever I am feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stress, I find that writing it all down really helps to alleviate that tension, even just a little. Of course a glass of wine here and there is helpful as well :P
-Get out of the house with girlfriends. My husband is my #1 best friend, but girlfriends are also so important!
-Read. Find something fun to read. Not a business book, or a book to learn something (although those are always important as well!) I love girly romance novels. They help get me out of my head, even for a short time before bed, or even in the middle of the day.
-Do Not DISTURB! This may not be a typical form of self care, however, I find that leaving my phone in the other room on do not disturb helps me focus on other things that I need to focus on. iPhone has different settings, so if I am in a meeting, I set it on the "work" setting, but if I am just at home in the evening and want to spend time with my husband, I set it on "personal" and eventually I'm not stressed about missing a phone call because if its after 6pm, then it can wait till tomorrow!
We can't take care of our families without first taking care of ourselves. But!
I also want to say that if you are married, you and your spouse are partners, so make sure you're not doing everything...no one wants their spouse to just be another person they take care of. You take care of each other! Self-care isn't selfish.
I want to hear some of the things you do throughout the week to take care of yourself!
Leave a comment below!
<3 Jess
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