As a parent, you probably remind your kids to eat healthy food, get enough sleep, and take breaks when needed; but when was the last time you followed this advice yourself? This month we celebrate International Self-Care Day on July 24th, and it is a great reminder that taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for others!
Many parents naturally put the needs of their family before their own, but making time for your own wellbeing is important, too. While parenting can be stressful and exhausting, it can also be incredibly joyful and fulfilling. However, if you don’t take care of yourself and recharge, it can be difficult to be present and enjoy time with your loved ones. Self-care is not selfish, it is essential. When you prioritize yourself, you have more patience and energy for your family, allowing you to cherish those happy moments.
Fortunately, there are many forms of self-care that can be practiced in just 5 to 15 minutes daily without taking time away from your children. Some people avoid self-care because they think they must set aside 2 to 3 hours of time, but some of the most effective forms of self-care come in consistent small doses. Additionally, when your children observe you partaking in healthy habits, they learn the importance of their self-care too!
Self-care does not need to be expensive or time-consuming; it can be as easy as:
- Keeping a journal
- Listening to music
- Going for a walk
- Sitting outside to enjoy nature
- Taking a break from technology
- Saying no to additional commitments
- Talking to a friend on the phone
- Making yourself a tasty snack
- Practicing a breathing exercise
Self-care is not just about “treating yourself,” it is also about developing healthy habits that support your overall wellness and help prevent burnout. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that burnout is the result of prolonged stress, it is not a sign of failure. Give yourself the same compassion you would offer your children or a friend. Avoid comparing yourself to other parents, ask for help when you need it, and celebrate your successes, both big and small. Taking care of yourself helps you better take care of those who depend on you, but don’t just do it for everyone else, do it for your own wellbeing.
This International Self-care Day, give yourself permission to make yourself a priority.
Remember, July 24th serves as a reminder to take care of yourself, but it doesn’t mean it's the only day you should.
About AllHealth Network, Premiere Site Sponsor of Macaroni KID Englewood-Greenwood Village-Centennial
AllHealth Network is a trusted family of mental health and substance use providers. Our compassionate clinicians (counselors, therapists, social workers, psychiatrists, case managers, nurses) offer a consistent model of clinical excellence with a focus on individualized goals for growth and recovery. Whether this is one’s first call to seek services, a mental health emergency, or if someone has been a client with us for years, ALL of our providers are here to serve with an open heart and mind TOGETHER. AllHealth Network has over 250 clinical providers and more than 30 psychiatrists and nurse practitioners. Beyond our 12 physical locations, our teams provide services in schools, detention centers, community centers, and other community locations throughout Arapahoe County, Douglas County, and the greater Denver Metro region.
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