Tips on how to make time for self-care as a parent

Tips on how to make time for self-care as a parent

Think of it this way, when you take time to care for yourself, your family gets the best version of you. 

Person holding a book while soaking in the bath tub
Person holding a book while soaking in the bath tub/Pexels/TarynElliott

The idea of the month of love has evolved over the years, with many people focusing more on themselves. 

What a beautiful way to look at love. Far too often we come across people who were never taught about self-care, let alone self-love. And that mentality has not done much good for the Millennials, Gen Xers, Baby Boomers or The Silent Generation. 

This is why it is so important for us, especially the parents among us, to practice self-love. 

Here are some great tips on how to practice self-care and ultimately self-love. 

  • Start a morning routine

If you are familiar with Robin Sharma's 5am club then you will know that waking up early is the best form of self-care you can commit to. 

Not only will the quiet time before everyone else wakes up help you prioritise your mental and physical health, but it will also help you be a better parent, partner, and every other hat you have under your name. 

  • Me time is essential

If you have never taken time to do something just for yourself, then you won't know how amazing it can be for you and your family.

Taking time for yourself means taking a walk, exercising, reading, enjoying a cup of tea, journalling, shopping, etc.

Time is what you make of it, not the other way around. The sooner we change our mindset on that, the better life becomes. 

  • Commit to planning and routines

Don't discount what a good plan and routine can do for you and your family. Being a parent is a full-time job and requires all of you. 

So, setting out what has to be done and assigning duties to each of the family members can help allow everyone time to themselves.

Promote mindfulness in the family and make sure to teach your kids that being in a family is like being in a team. 

Tune in to the 'Workzone with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp', weekdays from 09:00 - 12:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.

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Image Courtesy of Pexels

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