Self care is something we often put on the back burner. I get it, as a busy mom I would often leave caring for myself last. I had my boys and husband and wanted to do my best, to be the best for them. Sadly I just didn’t realize to be my best for them I had to take care of myself first. It’s like they say, put your own oxygen mask on first. I didn’t do this for many many years. Sure I meditated and practiced Reiki daily and ate somewhat clean, it wasn’t enough. In fact it wasn’t until I was so run down and suffering with sinus and ear issues that I took a step back and started putting my own health at the forefront.

Through literally being laid up with vertigo I learned to take better care of myself. I started paying attention to what I was eating and how it made me feel. I changed my diet and started to feel better. That worked for a long time, but I still wasn’t doing enough self care. After I started being more physically active with a focus on health building activities, setting up a sleep routine and managing stress better things got so much better.

I am telling you as a busy woman please take care of yourself so you can be the best for your loved ones as well as yourself! Try some of these self care ideas and find what feels good for you.

Eat Amazing Food: It goes without saying my first suggestion would be centered around food. Nourishing food is at the heart of feeling your best. When you eat nutritious and delicious food you can’t help but feel wonderful and ready to take on the day. Start with an amazing protein packed breakfast. This sets the tone for your whole day. If you eat well at breakfast chances are you will make great food choices throughout the rest of the day. Bonus, as you make nutritious food for yourself you also have it for your family. Knowing that the whole family is eating healthy food helps the daily ins and outs of a busy family schedule.

Deep Breathing: Start by taking just a moment to focus on your breath. Breath deep down into your belly or you can try another favorite, as you breath in to pull your shoulders up. As you breath out relax and drop your shoulders. Do this 5 times. If you really find yourself super busy you can add a repeating alarm on your phone so you stop and deep breath every hour or whatever works for you.

Yoga: Creating a sustainable at home yoga practice can do wonders for you. You can still hit up your favorite studio as time allows, but having a regular home practice can help re-center you as often as you practice. My favorite YouTube channel to use for this is Yoga With Adriene 

Sleep Routine: Creating a sleep routine or ritual can make falling asleep so much easier. Turn off any screens at least an hour before going to bed. Maybe make a nice herbal tea. Use this time to catch up on that book you have been meaning to read. Use relaxing essential oils in a diffuser. Set the lights low. Really prep your space for sleep. Keep TV’s out of the bedroom. I like to do a nice  calming yoga flow before bed.

Hydrate: Keep yourself hydrated all day long. The general rule is to have half your body weight in ounces per day.  This can make a big impact on how you feel throughout the day. Use a fun glass cup or stainless steel water bottle to track how much water you are drinking.

Time alone: Take some time alone when you can. Use it to do whatever makes you happy. Use it to nap, read a book, watch a show, lay in the grass and look at clouds. Really just take time for yourself to completely let go and relax.

Physically Activity: Find some sort of physical activity that works for you. Whether it’s functional movement, cross-fit, running, spinning, weight training, cardio, find time for it! I can not begin to tell you the benefits you will gain by exercising! It relieves stress, helps your lymphatic system, you can sleep better, boosts your self confidence, and just all around makes you feel good. I love a good Tone It Up workout!

Passion Projects/Hobbies: Find something you love and make time for it. It could be crocheting/knitting, cooking, baking, scrap-booking, volunteering, reading, gardening, etc. Find something that sparks your heart!

There are many more ways for self care. Find what feels good. You might not make it happen every week, but really take the time to make sure you are refueling on all levels.