Looking After Yourself

Take Time for Yourself

Sally and Tia"When the world gets too hectic and life is busy, I stop whatever I'm doing, sit down and play with my daughter. It's amazing how much clearer my head is, and I don't feel so pressured to get everything else done. The jobs will be there tomorrow, but what you do with your child today will be a lasting memory for both of you."
— Sally.

Being a mum is one of the most rewarding experiences of a woman's life although at times it can be extremely tiring. As a mum you get used to doing several things at once.

Whether you are a stay at home mum, a career woman, a single mum, or one with a partner, you are probably juggling more than one identity in your life and thus are carrying a huge amount of stress with you. You may act as a caregiver, a lover, a wife, a friend, a mother, a chef, a cleaner, a chaperone, a chauffeur, a teacher, an executive just to name a few!

It is important that you take time out for yourself. Giving your best to your baby means looking after yourself!

I know it’s easier said than done, but you need to get plenty of rest, eat a healthy well balanced diet and drink plenty of water. Also, don't forget to spend time with other mums. No matter how much of a superwoman you think you are, you need the support network. Don't go it alone.

Getting plenty of rest is very important. In addition to getting a good night’s sleep, you should also take naps when the baby does. Especially if you are breastfeeding your nutrition is very important to your baby's health. Eat nutritious meals and snacks and do not take any medications without checking with your doctor.

Take Time for You and Your Precious Loved Ones

If you have a partner, take time out together. You know that time spent talking and enjoying each other's company is essential for a healthy marriage and relationship.

Sometimes it feels almost impossible to stop and take time away. One of the biggest complaints that couples acknowledge is that after the children come along they don't have time to spend together anymore.

Being a mum can be difficult. We can often feel torn between giving all our time and attention to our children as well as all the other responsibilities that life throws our way. Yet sometimes our partner too can feel neglected which adds extra pressure to the relationship. So how do we keep balance in our lives?

How do you nurture your relationship at these times? It's actually easier than you think. The little things in life speak volumes, especially to the one you love.

Develop some simple ways to connect with your partner at least a few times a week. It's a great investment to your relationship.

  • A hug in passing or holding hands when you are out shopping.
  • Talk together whenever you get the chance. Don’t waste precious moments.
  • Turn off the television and spend time sitting talking.
  • After dinner, go for a walk. Your children will appreciate the walk too.
  • Go for a picnic.
  • Eat at the dinner table at night instead of in front of the TV. Dinnertime can always be a great way to spend time with your partner and children.

It can be quite difficult and expensive to arrange for baby sitters especially when you may not have family close by to help. A good way to share the load is by asking a friend, and take turns in minding each others children once a month and schedule an evening out as a couple.

As a mum it is important to have time out. It’s amazing how refreshed and energized you will feel by doing some of the things you really enjoy.

Supplements

A part of looking after yourself is getting the essential vitamins and minerals that your body requires. Omega 3 essential fatty acids are one of those that we can only get by the food we eat and our bodies can’t do without.

What are Essential Fatty Acids and Omega 3? Why are they so important for you and your baby?

These two supplements, Fish oil and Flaxseed Oil are high in Omega 3. To find out more go to links:

Fish Oil and Flaxseed Oil - All the benefits – Links:

Validate XHTML Validate CSS WAI AAA Explanation