1. Self-Care is Selfish

If you’ve traveled on an airplane, you’ve been given the instructions to put your own oxygen mask on first, should the need arise.  This is because if you don’t take care of yourself first, you won’t be able to take care of others.  The same principle applies off the airplane.  You must take care of yourself first so that you can be your best self when it comes time to take care of your family and other responsibilities.

 

2. I Need to Be Everything to Everyone 100% of the Time

I’ve heard this over and over again from mamas, and it’s just not true.  Why?  Because it’s impossible! We hold ourselves to incredibly high standards, and we live in a society that pushes the idea that we can do and have it all.  We just can’t.  Letting go of that idea frees you up to live with more realistic goals and a lot less stress.

 

3.  I Have to Put My Kids First 

This is sometimes true.  When it comes to being fed, changed, and cared for when they are sick, they do have to come first.  Even in these times, being able to be there for them when they need you means that you have to feel up to it.  When we haven’t found ways to put ourselves first, our children suffer because we feel burnt-out, overwhelmed, and they pick up this and may even feel resented (and none of us want them to feel that!).

 

4.    I Don’t Have the Time

Here’s a secret about time – it exists for whatever we need.  We are so good at wasting time and turning around and saying we don’t have enough time to do anything.  When you simplify, and learn that you can care for yourself in a matter of seconds, space suddenly begins to open up for what is most important.  What you don’t have time for anymore is the things that aren’t serving you or your family.

 

5.    I Don’t Have the Money

Self-Care doesn’t have to mean expensive vacations, weekly massages, hours of therapy, or material indulgences. Just as with time, when you simplify and understand what’s most important to you, you start to realize that it doesn’t have to cost a small fortune.  When you rediscover what makes you feel your best, you can reconnect with a happier and healthier self.

 

Peace, Love, and Wellness,