Remember to Care for Yourself Too + A Few Ideas How

So much is going on in the world and there’s a whole lot swirling around us.  And then as mom’s we’re adapting to zoom classes, managing tech issues and math homework.   As professionals we need to squeeze in work obligations, deadlines, meetings, emails.  And then there’s the regular every day home responsibilities of constant dishes, never ending picking up of random socks and toys, snack wrappers, laundry and vacuuming.  Not to mention cooking.

It’s a lot right now and it’s ok to not be ok.  I read that somewhere the other day and I thought it was so on point that it would be great to pass along the reminder.  We are doing our best and whatever that looks like, it’s ok.

Whoops the kids computer is acting up and the best I can do is get his audio working for zoom, let’s wait for dad to help you with your math because I have no idea, dishes can wait until tomorrow.

Math up next so dad’s in charge

 As an entrepreneur I have been continuing to work on the different aspects of this passion of mine.  From my edesign clients (shoutout to you guys you have been so amazing to work with!), to maintaining my online shop and  inquiries, business collaboration requests, posting and responding to comments on Instagram (I strive to respond to every single one within a few days) and the blog.  I LOVE what I do.

Werk werk werkin

Then the kids part.  I can totally relate mom’s, it’s rough some days.  And I’m especially bad at recognizing when I need a break.  I end up running myself into the ground before my brain just says “ok lady we need at least a few hours here”

So here’s the reminder, it’s ok to take care of you.  I thought I would share just a few simple things I have been implementing into my life to help balance things and more importantly keep my mental health in a positive place.

Our bathroom, see more of this space here!

*Soaking in a bath. I make a point of soaking at least once a week here.  It’s a quiet space where the kids don’t bother me and I can just rest.  Sometimes I listen to some music, sometimes I read and sometimes I just stare out the window at the leaves on the trees with the little birds flitting around.  The biggest benefit is, that hour or so always makes a difference.

*Binge scary movies  I end up watching these alone because not a single person in our house likes scary movies but me.  I LOVE scary movies (not the cheesy kind) and I find it’s a handful of hours well spent.  I think it might have something to do with giving my brain a break and just being entertained.

My daughter and I earlier this fall.  We have so much fun together trying out all the Ipsy goodies.

*Treat yourself  Even if it’s something small like leaving the house to go grab a Starbucks coffee.  I recently signed up for my first ever subscription box from Ipsy.  I’ve always wanted to learn more about makeup and skincare and my daughter (14) is getting interested in it, she loves that makeup show on Netflix.  So we have fun together trying out different makeup looks throughout the week.  And since no one sees us we get crazy (ombre rainbow eyeshadow anyone?!) sometimes which is even better.

*CBD oil   I struggle with anxiety and have been using CBD consistently for a year. This summer I switched to a slightly higher concentration and it has really helped.  I take a half dose in the morning and a half dose at night before bed.

How can I not want to watch a movie with these faces?!

*Stopping what I am doing and watching a show or movie with my kids.  I get so caught up in getting things done that I forget to stop and enjoy spending time with them.  So I will put aside what I’m doing and say to my 7 year old “yes I would love to watch Aquaman with you!” and that couple of hours with my kids watching superhero movies just refills that mom cup.

*Taking a long walk in the evening   I like going after dinner because it’s quiet.  Very little cars driving around, rarely run into anyone else out walking and the crisp air is so refreshing.  And I walk with my big ole Newfoundland so I feel pretty safe haha.

When your little recognizes the need for a moment of zen.

*Cutting back on social media  I haven’t been posting to Instagram as often and I take days off in between, where I don’t do much at all there.  IG is a roller coaster and to keep me balanced I just post when I want to instead of adhering to a rigorous schedule like I did before.  If the IG algorithm hates me for it, oh well.  My mental health is worth more.

*Rowing /Exercise I got a water rower for Christmas (which I love BTW) and kind of fell off of doing it this last spring when we were swamped working on the bathroom.  I have been trying to get back to it at least a few times a week, it’s a stress reliever and it’s a workout.

Making more of an effort to look after myself has been so good for me and in turn my family.  If we’re no good for ourselves we’re no good for anyone else either.

What are some things you have been doing to try and take better care of yourself?  I always love to hear from you so please feel free to share in comments below!

And don’t forget the subscribe box in the sidebar, more on the sofa series coming up and those 2 projects I’ve been talking about forever are just about ready to share….sourcing one more important element first!