Mother’s Day is two weeks away. Our your thinking about what you can do for your mom for Mother’s Day? As women and mothers, we tend to think about others first. But equally important is thinking about yourself. What will you do for YOU for Mother’s Day? I challenge you to make a commitment to do something for yourself each and everyday.
“Impossible!” you say. Caring for yourself is crucial to being the best mom you can be. Focusing on some me time results in a more relaxed you, who is better-prepared to handle the challenges life and kids send your way. Take a look at the list and pick one you are going to do each week. Then, do two a week. And keep on adding until you do something, even ten or fifteen minutes for yourself each day. You will feel happier and healthier.
- Get Some Zzz’s: Make sure you’re getting enough sleep every night. Try to establish a bedtime routine for you and your kids to help you all get the rest you need.
- Chow Down on Good Eats: Eating healthy food is important for you and your kiddos. Try to plan ahead and cook up some healthy meals so you have more time to relax and enjoy your food. Take advantage of food pantries to supplement your groceries.
- Move Your Body: Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and boost your energy levels. Even if you can only squeeze in a quick 10-15 minute workout, it’s worth it! There are many apps that offer quick exercises and suggestions you can do while traveling or while in an office that can get you started.
- Connect with Others: Being a single mom can be lonely, so make sure you’re reaching out to friends and family for support and a good chat. If you don’t have a supportive family, look into joining a single parent support group to meet other moms who understand what you’re going through. Many churches and pregnancy care centers have support groups. Hope for Single Moms has a private Facebook page for working single moms.
- Take Time for You: Make a point of doing something you enjoy every week, like reading a book or taking a relaxing bubble bath. This is your time to recharge and de-stress.
- Ask for Help: No one likes to ask for help, but you will find people are willing to help. Many people don’t know how to help. They need suggestions. Co-op babysit with a friend or co-worker. Many churches and nonprofits have volunteers, who’ve gone through background checks, who will babysit for free. Hope for Single Moms has volunteer babysitters.
- Practice Mindfulness: Taking time to meditate, do some deep breathing, or try yoga can help you reduce stress and feel more focused.
- Take time to Pray: If you’re a woman of faith, prayer takes the focus off you and puts it on God. Share your dreams and struggles with Him and ask Him for peace and a clear direction. Many churches and pregnancy care centers offer single mom bible studies. If your church is looking to start a group, Hope for Single Moms can help. Have your church check out our guide.
If your church already has a group, Hope for Single Moms also has a bible study written specifically with you, the single mom in mind. They can learn more here.
Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish – it’s necessary for you to be the best mom you can be. By taking time to practice self-care, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges of single parenthood and enjoy a happier, healthier life!