Self-care for parents? How do I prioritise my own well-being?

When juggling busy family life with professional responsibilities and other commitments, most parents end up feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and burnout – we are only human after all! 

One way to help cope with that overwhelming feeling is to practise self-care. Stop and take a moment to put yourself before everyone else – which can be a hard thing to do! 

What is self-care?

Self-care refers to intentional activities that people engage in to promote their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Here is some more detailed information on self-care.

For busy working parents, self-care is especially important to help you recharge and reduce stress. Here are some self-care practices that you can incorporate into your daily routine:

Prioritise sleep

Sleep is essential for our physical and mental health. As a working parent, it can be tempting to sacrifice sleep to catch up on work or speak to family and friends. However, getting enough rest is crucial for our well-being. Try to aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

Exercise

Exercise is a great way to reduce stress, boost energy, and improve your mood. You don’t need to spend hours at the gym to reap the benefits of exercise. Even a short walk or 15-minute yoga session in the morning can be beneficial.

Practice mindfulness

Try incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine, such as taking a few deep breaths before starting work, or taking a few minutes to meditate during your lunch break. It can help reduce stress and improve focus.

Ask for help

It’s okay to ask for help when you need it. Reach out to family members, friends, or colleagues for support. You may also consider hiring a babysitter or asking a family member to help with childcare, so you can have some time to yourself.

Take breaks

Taking regular breaks throughout the day can help prevent burnout and improve your productivity. Try to take short breaks every hour or so to stretch or go for a walk.

Eat well

Try to incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals. A balanced diet can help improve your energy levels, mood, and your overall health.

 

Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish – it’s necessary.

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Here is some general supporting information for parents.