Small Ways to Practice Self-Love While Mothering
Mama, I know you do an incredible job at looking after those around you, but don't forget to love on yourself too.
Loving on ourselves and the activities we undertake in doing so is vital in staying physically, psychologically, and spiritually healthy, and the benefits flow on from you to your children and to everyone around you. Practicing self- love shows other around you how you expect to be treated, and it's great role modelling to our children. If you are not in the habit of practicing self-love it might take a while to get used to and thats ok - show yourself love and compassion for the awkwardness you might feel initially. Pick something small from my list below or come up with you own idea. Then keep at it! The more you do it, the easier it will become.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
Whisper to yourself "I am doing the best I can" when things feel challenging.
Hold yourself tight (yep give yourself a big hug) when you're experiencing big emotions.
Make yourself some soul food - your all time favourite meal.
Get creative & make something beautiful.
Admire your body by focusing on all it has done and continues to do for you (i.e. created life, allows you to move, experiences pleasure, tells you when things aren't right by feeling pain etc).
Give yourself permission to have fun and play on this journey and look for opportunities to do so. This is where you can access spontaneity!
Get horizontal - Lie down whenever you feel you need it (make it into a game with the kids).
Ask your children what they love about you and SOAK IT UP. This feels so good!! Then return the favour.
Get creative & make something beautiful.
Get clear on what doesn't serve you, then put in place and hold boundaries.
Tell that inner critic to GET BENT! Bye Felicia...
Listen to music that lights you up.
Visualise someone you love, doting on you - like a grandmother, or aunty.
Dial up the self compassion - ask yourself what you would say to someone you loved when they needed some love or had made a mistake, then direct those words inwards to yourself.
Journal to this: "I am worthy of self love because..."
Feel free to drop me a line and let me know how you go at yara@lifeafterbirthpsychology.com.au