Coffee Stretch

There’s no doubt that women with children have struggled with needing to provide the best for their children while trying to still balance taking care of themselves. While we love our little beans, it is important that we pour into ourselves the same way we pour into our children. Now I know first hand how difficult this can be. As mothers, we do have the responsibility to ensure our children are cared for appropriately, but this doesn’t mean we can’t care for ourselves as well! Motherhood and womanhood can co-exist, I promise. There will be learning curves, unique scheduling and some time management but catering to our womanhood can be done. Below are five ways to set time aside for yourself.

1. Time management- our little beans usually take a nap at least once or twice a day, which gives the perfect time to engage in some self love. (reading, exercise, take a nap too! etc.)
2. Focus on you babies patterns- children tend to have patterns to their behavior and this leaves opportunity for us to practice self-care. For instance, if your kiddo tends to be more relaxed and chill first thing in the morning, use this time to relax as well. Going along with the baby’s chill time, can prevent you from chasing them around the house, which we all know can be exhausting.
3. Quiet time- If children are old enough to have “quiet or play time” in their rooms, this is also an opportunity for you to have quiet time. Just be sure they are still being supervised, for example, using a baby monitor and/or them being in a room near you.
4. Affirm yourself- with children, everyday can be different from the next. Don’t be hard on yourself. If you’re not able to engage in a long self-care routine that day, just take at least 5 minutes to yourself and tell yourself you are doing your best.
5. Natural supports- Allow your partner and natural supports care for the kiddos for an hour or two. As mothers, we can have a hard time letting go. However, allowing our children to bond with love one is healthy for their development. This also allows them to form healthy relationships and social skills. And a bonus is- spending time by yourself!

Remember, when you have the space to breath, you’re able to help others breath.

Take care,

Gwena’e