Taking Care of Your Mental and Physical Health as a Parent
This is a contributed post.
Once you have kids, it’s so easy for your own needs to go on the backburner. Especially when they’re little, so much of your time and energy is focused on making sure all of their needs are being met that you just don’t have much left for yourself at the end of each day. But it’s important to remember that you matter too, and you being happy and healthy isn’t just a luxury. It’s completely essential for being able to be the best parent you can be to your kids. Here are some things to think about for keeping yourself fit and well.
Physical health
Most of us spend lots of time making sure our kids eat well. Going to the extent of hiding vegetables that they dont like in their food, cutting it into shapes they might want to eat, figuring out new nutritious recipes, and so much more. But how often do you do the same for yourself? You might find yourself grabbing something quick and easy once your kids have gone to bed because you can’t be bothered, or ordering takeaways. One thing that can really help is getting into the habit of cooking family dinners, one balanced meal for everyone. It can be an adjustment if you’ve not been used to doing that but that way you all eat well and its good for the whole family. Exercising together is a good way to keep your own fitness in check too. Instead of beating yourself up about not having the energy to go to the gym, take the kids to a trampoline park or a soft play and chase them around for an hour after school instead! You’ll make memories and will probably all sleep better too. Another really important thing to consider when it comes to your physical health is doctors’ appointments. Chances are your kids never miss one, but you probably do. Get all the screenings and checks you’re invited to, and make sure you book things like opticians, dentists, and hearing tests for yourself in the same way you would for your kids. When you keep on top of things like this, you can prevent so many issues later down the line,
Mental health
Relaxation and young kids is a bit of a clash of interests, and if you’re in the thick of the childhood years, you’ll know how exhausting it can be. It’s not even physically running around after them, but when you’re the person who has to anticipate the needs of other people all the time it can drain you. It’s easy to say ‘take time out for yourself,’ but what does that mean as a busy parent who might not have loads of support? Practical ideas are things like taking a pampering bath each day once your kids are in bed to really unwind and relax. It can mean starting a hobby from home which you can pick up in your limited spare time and gives you a bit of yourself back and lets you learn some skills. It could mean you and your partner taking turns to let the other lie in on any days off. They’re not exactly a fortnight in the Bahamas but it’s something that can help to bring down your stress.
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