If you haven’t noticed I can’t get enough of talking about self-care. This is something I have always struggled with myself, but I have surrounded myself by some amazing mamas like Natalie Sager, the Modern Hippie Mama that are giving me and my readers all the best tips for self-care. I love what Natalie wrote, because it takes you out of the spa and focuses on things you can do in your life TODAY for just a little more self-care.
Self-Care is a buzz word that has been pretty hot lately – and for good reason! For Mama’s especially, it is completely mandatory and should be (if it’s not already) one of those absolute non-negotiable’s.
It seems that everyone has their own interpretation and unique definition of what Self-Care actually means. For some people when they hear or read those words they think “spa day” or “pampering” or perhaps even “selfish time.” And, while you are more than welcome to label this sacred time as such, I invite you to view Self-Care as little moments throughout the day where you can commit to making yourself a priority . Because when we, metaphorically and literally, nourish ourselves we are able to connect to our family, friends and communities on a much deeper more meaningful level. We are the versions of ourselves that we are proud of by day’s end.
So, what is Self-Care? Well, as previously mentioned it is a very personal and special time to bring yourself into the moment, to take a step back and re-evaluate your goals, missions, values, it is an opportunity to focus on yourself and you desires. It is an absolute necessity to remain sane and loving as a Mama, wife, friend, daughter, sister, and member of society. It is not something to sweep under the rug or dismiss as unimportant. Because when you do that, you are clearly announcing to the Universe (or God, or Source, or Creator or Divine or whoever you believe in) that your feelings and well-being are unimportant…and I’m pretttttty certain that is not the message you want to be emitting.
Ok, what’s the plan? How do we achieve this while multi-tasking throughout our very busy days?
1. Remind yourself that there are 24 hours in a day and you are able to accomplish anything you want, when you plan for it. So, begin strategizing. What 2-3 consistent opportunities throughout your day are you able to make time for you?
2. It can be as simple as- leaving your phone at home when you take the baby out for a stroll around the neighborhood. Use that opportunity to become fully mindful and present. Observe the trees gently blowing in the wind, marvel at the intense beauty surrounding you in nature, look up at the sky and absorb the free vitamin D. Nourish your spirit by grounding yourself in the outdoors.
3. Wake up 10-60 minutes before your family. Soak up this alone time by reading a book, taking a shower (by yourself with no children asking you questions), meditating, visualizing, affirming. Perhaps starting a gratitude journal- write three things you are grateful for everyday.
4. When the children are asleep, light some candles, run a hot bath with Epsom salts, lavender oil, and some fun, fancy, organic soap. Put a face mask on and enjoy an ice cold honey, lemon water.
5. Stay up an extra 10-30 minutes in the evening to enjoy a cup of hot herbal tea and read a book you’ve been wanting to indulge in.
The act of Self-Care is not about money or extravagance, although if that’s your style it certainly can be- but the act of Self-Care is ensuring that your bucket is constantly re-filled so you are able to share your amazing Mama gifts with your children everyday. You deserve it!
Natalie Sager is the Modern Hippie Mama and she’s bringing Hippie back! Her company is HeWeLoHa Wellness. HeWeLoHa is a groovy acronym for Health, Wealth, Love and Happiness. She is Mama to her precious 4 year old son, Jonah and his baby brother, Skye. They are the light of her life and her constant reminders about how miraculous and wonderful the world can be…when we open our hearts. Her mission is to inspire, educate & empower fellow Hippie Mama’s to take control of their HeWeLoHa. She believes as the main power houses in the home we can then create a ripple effect to our family, friends, community and beyond. You can find more of her work at HeWoLoHa.
Connect with Natalie at www.heweloha.com and on Facebook or Instagram.