Showing posts with label self care & wellbeing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label self care & wellbeing. Show all posts

WONDERFUL WAYS HUGGING BENEFITS YOUR WELLBEING

There are many reasons why we hug others. Whether it's an excited hug, a sad hug, a happy hug, or even a loving hug. Hugging is comforting, it makes us feel loved and happy and there's genuine reasons behind that. 

One of the main reasons hugging is beneficial is it causes our oxytocin levels to rise, otherwise known as the 'bonding hormone'. Oxytocin is a particularly important hormone in women. It plays a role during pregnancy, in giving birth, as well as breastfeeding and helping develop a strong maternal bond.

Aside from this, there are a huge variety of reasons why hugging is beneficial for us all, and I'm sharing a few of the more wonderful ways below!

Hugs Help Reduce Stress

Hugging is something we tend to automatically do when a friend or loved one is going through tough times. We want to show them support and by giving them a good cuddle it will not only help to relax them but it will lower their blood pressure to help calm them. Hugging others when they are feeling stressed will help show them you are there to support them too.

Hugging is also fantastic for helping your child if they are having a tough day, or struggling with a tantrum. You may think that by cuddling your child when they are having a tantrum is 'rewarding bad behaviour' but that's far from the truth. Your child is only young and they are learning how to manage or regulate their emotions. So hug your child close when you can tell they are stressed. Calm them down, shower them with love and when they are relaxed you can talk to them calmly.

Hugs Strengthens Your Bond With Others

As hugging helps to release the 'bonding hormone' it gives feeling of closeness. It helps to promote bonding between two people, whether it's friend and friend, husband and wife, or mother and child. 

Hugging your friends, or your partner can help show you are comfortable with them, show them you are there for them and help to improve your relationship. Hugging your children shows them they are safe, comfortable, protected and loved. Your children will learn to recognise your scent, listen to your body and feel close and comforted with you around.

Hugs Help You Communicate

As I previously mentioned, hugging can help strengthen bonds. This happens by showing support, but also by showing slight vulnerability and expressing your emotions. Hugging is comforting and communicative, even without uttering a word. Giving someone a hug can show a huge range of emotions from sympathy, love, comfort, or empathy, without even having to speak.

WONDERFUL WAYS HUGGING BENEFITS YOUR WELLBEING

Hugs Help Alleviate Loneliness

Oxytocin helps reduce feelings of isolation or loneliness, and a lack of human contact can leave you feeling isolated or craving affection. Sadly, the world we live in now there is far less human contact or affection due to technology being so distracting. We switch on social media and switch off from others around us, and that is why the feeling of loneliness is so high nowadays. So switch off from technology more and be in the moment. Show more physical affection to those around you and we will all start to feel a lot less lonely.

Hugs Show Others How Much You Care

Hugging is a wonderful way of showing loved ones how much you care. A hug shows support, it shows love, understanding and the idea that you are there for them. As I mentioned above, a lack of physical affection can be damaging to our wellbeing, so we should all want to lift each other up and prove to them how much you appreciate them.

When it comes to your children, there is absolutely no such thing  as spoiling them with love. No matter when anyone says, shower your babies with physical affection and they'll know just how much you care for them. 

Hugging Makes You Physically Feel Better

The stress reducing effects of hugging also has health benefits too. Hugging releases tension, improves circulation, lowers your heart rate and causes your muscles to relax. It has also been scientifically proven that the increase in oxytocin can help strengthen immune systems! 

Did you know that when you are feeling aggravated or stressed, your immune system starts to work more aggressively, too aggressively which can actually increase your risk of becoming ill. So hug it out, relieve your stress and keep your immune system working well.

Hugs Create Happy, Loving Children

Children need different types of sensory stimulation for development, so hugging is important to grow a healthy brain and strong body. It has been scientifically proven that  showing warmth and affection to your children has a lifelong positive effect on not only your children, but their future family too as they learn from us. If we are loving and affectionate, they will grow up to be the same. Be sure to teach your children it's ok to refuse a hug too though. They are in charge of their own bodies. 

WONDERFUL WAYS HUGGING BENEFITS YOUR WELLBEING



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Why you should hug more! Hugging is good for you!


10 Ways To Be Kinder To Yourself
We all need to learn to be kinder to ourselves everyday. It is one of the best things you can do for yours and others well being. It also leads to self acceptance and greater satisfaction in every aspect of your life. You deserve it. 10 Ways To Be Kinder To Yourself

Being kind to yourself is something that is often forgotten about, or neglected, you may even feel like you don't deserve it. But you do. Of course you do. In our lives, being kind to ourselves seems selfish, or makes you feel guilty. It shouldn't. 

So today I'm sharing 10 easy ways you can be a bit kinder to yourself. You deserve it, you need it. Being kind is so important, including to yourself!

10 Ways To Be Kinder To Yourself

Start a new habit today, beginning with trying one thing and just go for it.
Pick a new habit you like to try, whether it's joining the 5am club, exercising more frequently or even reading every day. Give it a go, if you like it, do it again tomorrow! Habits are important and they grow stronger each day and end up becoming more automatic. Habits are powerful things, but they take a little time and determination to develop them.

It's never too late
The future is still in your hands. We often limit ourselves from opportunities and dreams because of petty excuses. Stop over-thinking how things could have gone, and take a few steps to creating the life you want. Plans are meant to change, life is meant to change. It's never to late to achieve your dreams, so plan and decide what you want to achieve in your life, what steps will it take you to get there? Take one step today.

Destroy negative thoughts
Remove your automatic negative thoughts such as "I can't do it", and come up with a logical answer. Negative thoughts feed on negative thoughts, and unfortunately they can be really strong and have an awful effect on every aspect of our lives. If you are struggling with negative thinking, it's time to deal with them. Pushing your feelings and thoughts down, attempting to block them out doesn't help at all, in fact it only makes them worse. Destroy negative feelings is all about shifting perspective, counteracting those bad thoughts with positive ones! Positive thinking and self love are possibly the most important ways you can be kinder to yourself. 

Focus on your good side
Speaking of self love - focus on the parts of yourself that you like, rather than what you don't like. I know it's not just mean who has a hard time embracing their good qualities, being proud of your achievements and even just accepting compliments. It seems so much easier to focus on your flaws than thinking about the wonderful, positive aspects of yourself!

Whether it's your kindness, your writing skills, your gorgeous eyes - anything, become aware and embrace those fantastic qualities.

Laugh
Laughing is one of the best things in life! Not only does it make you feel happy, but it genuinely has health benefits too. From relieving tension and stress, to boosting the immune system! Take 15 minutes a day to watch/read/listen to something that will guarantee to make you laugh. Spend time with people who make you happy. Do things you know make you laugh. It will release tension, boost your energy and happiness. 

Get some exercise
Looking after your body is the kindest thing you can do for yourself. Exercise helps you to develop strong muscles and bones, it'll boost your immune system - plus its really good for your mental wellbeing too. The more active you are, the more satisfied you feel with your life. Take care of yourself.

10 Ways To Be Kinder To Yourself

De-stress!
If you're feeling stressed, first of all you need to identify the cause. Is it personal, is it work related, is it health related? De stressing is all about taking control of the situation and building emotional strength. Figure out what sort of things help you personally to feel more relaxed. Take some time out for self care, talk to a loved one or set yourself something new to work towards such as a new hobby!

Take a step forward
After the year we've had, I can imagine many of us had days when we woke up dreading the same monotonous day ahead of us. It's time to change that mindset, give yourself reasons to be excited for the day ahead, set yourself an intention for that day and you'll feel super excited to get started. Having something to look forward to every day will help you feel so much more alive, and it'll allow you to learn how to create your own happiness. Your things to look forward to each day don't have to be big things either! Whether it's making time to read a few more chapters of that really good book, taking a nap or doing a tough workout, if it makes you happy then do it!

Don't compare yourself to others
In the world of social media, comparing yourself to others kind of comes with the territory. You feel bad because your house isn't spotlessly clean like that mum on Instagram, you don't do amazing crafts and DIYs like that Pinterest mum you've been following, and you haven't been on an extra agent holiday like that family you see on Facebook. "Comparison is the thief of joy" Never a truer statement said.

In this day and age we are constantly comparing ourselves and in doing so, you are focusing on their path, not your own. Invest that time in yourself instead, accept who you are, not who you are not and you'll find out you are pretty incredible, and unique.

Not to mention, social media is not something to compare your life too because it's not reality. 

Be a friend to yourself
(This is my favourite one)
 We all know the saying "treat others how you would want to be treated" but the truth is, we don't treat ourselves that same way. Many of us struggle to be compassionate and caring to ourselves, which if you think about it is utterly ridiculous! You could be the kindest person in the world, the best, most supportive friend yet you constantly belittle and doubt yourself! Why? It seems we have grown up in a culture when it's just not the normal thing to speak positively of yourself, to radiate happiness and confidence. We are scared of new challenges, and beating ourselves up about it and it just makes us more miserable. So from now on, If you're upset, or nagging yourself about something, be a friend to yourself. Imagine you are advising a friend who is in the situation. What would you say to them? How would you console them? What would you suggest they do?

Do you feel you treat yourself kindly?

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10 Ways To Be Kinder To Yourself


Self Care Ideas When You Only Have 5 Minutes

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Self Care is not about self indulgence, it's not about putting yourself above over everyone else or vanity. Self care is about recognizing your needs and looking after yourself. I firmly believe in the quote "You can't pour from an empty cup", which is particularly appropriate if you are a parent. Self care helps prevent you from becoming overwhelmed, exhausted or burned out so yes, it's SO important. 5 Minute self care ideas are often the way to go. You might aim for giving yourself the night off, even an hour - but life gets in the way sometimes. 

Taking any time out for you, or finding a huge amount of time to focus on yourself can be a rare thing as a parent, so I wanted to share a few, super quick self care ideas that you can try everyday, or anytime you have 5 minutes spare. Everyone can make 5 minutes for themselves! 

Light A Candle
Lighting a candle can really improve your mood. I like to light candles during the evening, or after I'm done cleaning up - it's like a reward! Candles help create a relaxing, comforting and uplifting vibe in your home, be sure to pick your favourite scents!

Play A Soothing Or Motivating Song
Music can really help to improve your mood. If you are in a relaxed, calming mood - try a more mellow, soothing song. If you need a bit of a kick up the bum, or perhaps you need cheering up a bit - pick one of your favourite songs. (A little tip, create a soothing/motivating playlist on Spotify in advance!)

Write It Down
If you have any worries, or a million things on your to-do list and you're worried you won't have time, or will miss out on something important - write it down. Jot it down, blog about it, do whatever you need to do, just get it off your chest and out of your mind.

Step Outside
Go outside and get some fresh air for five minutes. Being stuck indoors all day can drive anyway a bit crazy, so get outside. Walk in your garden, stand on your doorstep, relax and just listen to nature or take a quick stroll around the block and embrace the world around you.

Self Care Ideas When You Only Have 5 Minutes

Focus On Your Breathing
Sit somewhere quiet, and take a few deep breaths. Close your eyes and just concentrate on your breathing. Take a big, deep breathe and hold it for a few seconds, then exhale slowly. Focusing on your breathing, and nothing else can help relax you and ease tension.

Drink Water
We all know how drinking enough water daily is really important for our health. It can be a struggle sometimes to remember to drink enough, so take these 5 minutes to drink a big cold glass of water and boost your water intake for the day!

Dance Or Sing
One thing I used to do all the time when I lived alone, and needed a bit of a boost - was to put on one of my favourite songs, and play it loudly. I used to dance or sing out loud and proud, and it really cheered me up! Every time!

Make Plans With Loved Ones
Take these 5 minutes to make a plan with friends or family to do something together soon. Not just 'We need to do something soon' but what you are going to do, where and when. Write it down in your diary or on your calendar, and give yourself something fun to look forward to. 

Take A Shower
Taking a short shower can improve anyone's mood instantly. Wash off your worries, relax and don't forget to turn the shower right down for a quick burst of cold water at the end, to help ease any stresses and improve circulation. 

Self Care Ideas When You Only Have 5 Minutes

What do you like to do, when you have 5 minutes to yourself? 


If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffee

I'd really appreciate it! 

Self Care Ideas When You Only Have 5 Minutes


5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try TodayI'm a firm believer in the power of expressing gratitude and being thankful for every thing you have. If you are feeling down, negative, disorganised, all over the place or just generally negative, starting a gratitude journal may just change your life. In the current times, with all the fancy technology we have at our fingertips - apps are often the way to go. I decided to try out a few different gratitude journaling apps and I wanted to share them with you!

Easy Ways To Start A Gratitude Journal With An App

5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try Today


Regular journaling has been scientifically proven to improve your wellbeing, and helps to create a positive mindset. By making a point of writing down all the things (big or small!) that you are thankful for, can really improve your mental health and wellbeing, as well as being inspiring to look back on. So if you are interested in starting your gratitude journaling journey, but you are more of a digital note maker these 5 gratitude journaling apps are the way to go!

Gratitude

Gratitude - 5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try Today
Gratitude is a lovely little app, quick to get going and easy to use throughout. Beginning each day on your 'journal' it gives you a prompt to write about, and you can even add a photo from your camera roll for each entry too. It then goes on to give you the option of creating daily affirmations (which some people love, some don't and that's ok). The app also provides you with fab quotes of the day and even the ability to create a vision board too! (Free, but there is a paid version option) Available on Android

Gratitude - 5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try Today

Presently

Presently - 5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try Today
Presently is my favourite gratitude journal app on this list, simply because it's just that - a gratitude journal app. It's simple, it's elegant and it's so easy to use. No frills, nothing fancy or extra, just exactly what it says on the tin. It allows you to focus on simply jotting down what you are grateful for today, and yesterday and keeps it all neat in a little diary. Perfect, sweet and simple. (Free & 100% ad free too) Available on Android
Presently - 5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try Today



365 Gratitude Journal

365 Gratitude Journal - 5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try Today
365 Gratitude Journal is more girly and cutesy than the other apps on this list, but if that's totally you, go for it! It's a simple app to use, and uses science based tips to keep you motivated each day. Plus it gives you journaling prompts if you're stuck and has an easy to use mood tracker too! Plus, 365 Gratitude Journal is different because it's gives you the opportunity to join in with a likeminded community for plenty more inspiration too! (Free 7 Day trial, then £3.57 per month after) Available on Android and IOS
365 Gratitude Journal - 5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try Today


Gratitude Garden

Gratitude Garden - 5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try Today
Gratitude Garden is another more simpler app. Again it does exactly what it sets out to do. Gives you the opportunity to fill in 3 things you are grateful for that day and each time you fill in your 3 things you get 'gratitude points' which can be used to buy things for your beautiful 'gratitude garden'. The app also let's you turn over a new card each day, with a motivational quote and inspiration for your day going forward too. Easy to use, fun to play and beautiful to look at! (Free) Available on Android and IOS
Gratitude Garden - 5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try Today

HappyFeed

HappyFeed - 5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try Today

HappyFeed is a slightly different type of gratitude journaling app. It does of course first give you chance to fill in a little journal, with prompts or hints if needed, and you can add photos or locations too, which is fab. The little bit extra to this app is the fact you can join in a group or a 'private pod' to share your moments with too! It also allows you to look back through memories and sends you a highlight of your month too. A really lovely app if you are looking for something a little bit more than your basic gratitude journal. (Free) Available on Android and IOS

HappyFeed - 5 Gratitude Journaling Apps To Try Today

I completely understand that apps aren't for everyone. Some people like to keep parts of their lives separate, off their phones, and some people are more pen and paper people - and that's perfectly ok too. If you are unsure, why not give one of these apps a go, it can't hurt right? 

No matter what works best for you, try and stick to it - to make your happiness a habit and feel the true benefit of gratitude in your life. 

Have you tried any Gratitude Journaling apps before? 
Do you think you might give one a go?

If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffee

I'd really appreciate it! 

(Ad/Review) Absolute Goddess Handbook

We've all seen the word "glow up" floating around the internet over the past year or so, not to mention the 3 words that literally make my bones cringe "hot girl summer". Everyone wants a "glow up", a refresh, a bit of a makeover - it's exciting! But it's cliché, uninspiring and unrealistic. Hot Girl Summer is particularly derogatory, who qualifies as a "hot girl" then? I detest it. 

Then I came across the Absolute Goddess Handbook by Elizabeth @ Ice cream whispers Clara, and although it may seem similar to your typical glow up routine, or makeover tips - it's not, at all. It's so much more, and the best part is, it's all for you. Not to show anyone else, just how amazingly perfect and gorgeous you are, it's about you, learning to love the skin you are in, accentuating your beautiful natural features and realising just how freaking incredible you already are. 


Absolute Goddess Handbook Review

The Absolute Goddess Handbook is available as a digital download here, and it full to the brim with tips, advice, self care ideas, lifestyle suggestions, skincare, wellbeing tips and so much more. Transforming who you think you are into who you want to be. A real life love potion, for yourself. 

The first section of the course discusses typical beauty standards, how to use them to your advantage without succumbing to them. All about being your own person, loving the skin you are in - and making the most of your perfect, unique, natural features.

I love that Elizabeth goes into discussion and shares tips about forming a reliable, easy and functional skincare routine, she also shares a wonderful array of hair care tips. Personally though, I really love how she talks about the importance of pampering and taking care of yourself, and how to find the time to be able to do that. She is a mother too, so she knows what it means when you say "I don't have time!", but pampering is just another form of self care, and it can truely be a wonderful one. 

The next section of the course is about make up and hair, with many recommendations and routine suggestions. I mean, I've never and never will be a classic "pretty girl". I love dresses, I love make up, but I'm a hot mess - let's be honest. My hair is more often than not in a scruffy bun of some sort, my nails are often chipped and my clothes probably have some sort of food/paint/juice stains. But that's all ok, and perfectly acceptable. No one is perfect, and I certainly am not. But I still love taking a little extra time to do my make up in the mornings, I love having a long pampering bath on a Sunday night, and I love painting my nails bright colours. 


Absolute Goddess Handbook Review


There is no right, or wrong answer. In this course, Elizabeth ensures we all understand - this isn't a strict "this is how you should do it" "this is how you should look", it's all about looking after yourself, self love, no need for a glow up, when you are already pretty freaking amazing. 

The course then goes onto discuss food, wellbeing, clothing, lifestyle and so much more.
She discusses about tuning in to your inner goddess, listening to her, trying new things. Taking risks, making changes and ultimately - becoming your very best self, becoming an absolute goddess

Throughout the handbook there are many tips, ideas, suggestions - ways to help you tune into your body and mind. There are no rules. YOU make the rules, she's just helping you visualise it all. 
Absolute Goddess Handbook Review

Overall, I really love this course. I have taken a lot of notes, and inspiration throughout this course and will be implementing many aspects into my life. Reading the handbook, it feels like she is speaking to you as her friend. She's helping, suggesting, listening to your needs - without being pushy or bossy. She's a kind hearted soul, and you can really feel this when reading.

The only downside I honestly have to the course, is that I wish it came in paperback format! I'd love to have a copy on my shelf, that I could just browse through now and then, when I'm looking for a burst of inspiration or guidance. 

You can find the course here - I highly recommend checking it out! RRP £31



 

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I'd really appreciate it! 

happy face, balloons with smiley faces, future self
If you are feeling uninspired or unmotivated, do something to change your life today. You need to fight for what you want, you need to plan ahead and even small changes can make a big difference to your life. Try and tick a few of these things off today, and your future self will thank you!

12 Little Things To Do That Your Future Self With Thank You For


Sort Out Your Wardrobe

Go through your wardrobe and give it a good declutter. Fill up a bag of items to take to the charity shop, things that you don't wear or don't fit. Not only will this benefit others by donating to charity, but it will save you a lot of time in the future when deciding what to wear!

Automatically Transfer Money To Savings Account

Set up a standing order to automatically transfer some money on payday to your savings account. Even a few pounds every month can soon build up, and if it comes out straight away, you'll begin to not even notice it going. I've got a fantastic little set up with my bank, that means every time I pay on my card (which is pretty much every time I go to the shop) it rounds up the amount I spend to the nearest pound, and transfers those pennies into my savings account. It's a fantastic way to save without really noticing, I strongly suggest you see if your bank does this too!

Organise A Date With Friends

Spending quality time with your friends is so important. You might have 100 friends, you might only have a few but make some time every month to see those closest to you. Organise a date in advance to make sure you get a chance to see each other as regularly as possible. 

Get Into The Habit Of Taking Time For Yourself Everyday

Looking after yourself is so important, and spending quality time alone is one of the best things you can do when you need to recharge your batteries. Start scheduling quality time just for you, and you'll thank yourself when it starts becoming a habit.

happy woman with confetti

Leave Money In Your Coat Or Bag

Oh this is one of my favourite things to do for myself as and when I can. It works particularly well when the seasons are changing too. For example, leave £5 or £10 pounds in your winter coat pocket, as winter is turning into spring. You'll soon forget it's there, and you'll high five yourself when you discover it again in a few months. OR if you don't want to leave it that long, you could tuck a note behind your least used cards in your purse, and you'll discover it again at a later date. 

Book A Holiday

Book a weekend away or a holiday a while in advance, even up to a year in advance. Pay for it as soon as you can and you'll have something to look forward to for months! It'll make it more exciting, and you'll definitely thank yourself for taking that leap and booking something early!

Fill Your Diary/Calendar Up

One thing I've started doing more now is writing down important dates and things to remember as soon as they come up. Say you did book a holiday, or a date with friends - write it down there and then! Or perhaps you got a letter for the various holiday and inset days for school, write it down straight away! You'll be so glad you did when you've got too much on your mind later on and have completely forgotten!

Spend Time With Your Family

Make sure you set time aside to spend with your family and those you are closest too. Even if it's just an afternoon of drinking tea and catching up. Ensure it becomes a regular occurrence, and don't let little things get in the way of family time.

Cook A Big Batch Of Food And Freeze

Such a genius idea and really easy to implement. Cook a big batch of whatever you are having for dinner, or do it with every dinner - portion out the extras into separate tubs and freeze. You'll be so thankful for this in the future when you haven't got anything to eat, or perhaps you're not feeling well but you still need to make dinner!

Write A To-Do List For Following Day

Something I do every single night, without fail. Grab your diary and check what you've got going on the following day. Make a to-do list, even if it's just a few things to tick off the following day. (Make sure you add a few easily achievable things too though, like taking time out for you, or sitting down and drinking a cuppa while it's hot!) It will stop you forgetting anything, and encourage you to make the most of every day.

happy woman with bunches, sunglasses on, making peace signs on both hands


Plan A List Of Goals And Steps, And Take That First Step

I absolutely love writing goal lists, and they are all well and good but if you haven't got a plan of how to achieve them, they aren't going to be ticked off the list anytime soon! So write down a list of goals for the week/month/year and steps to achieve each one. Then take that first step towards one goal there and then. Plus, if possible, you could even add the next step to tomorrow's to do list!

Plan Your Outfit And Pack Your Bag For Tomorrow

Almost an essential thing to do when you have children, but plan and set out your outfit ready for the next day, each evening. (I recommend checking the weather beforehand!) It'll save you a task in the morning, and no faffing around searching for a particular item of clothing. As well as planning your outfit for the next day - get any bags ready too! Pack your handbag/changing bag/ kids lunchboxes ready in advance and it'll save you so much time in the morning!

So which item on the list will you be checking off today? 
How do you like to treat your future self?

If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffee

I'd really appreciate it! 

Mum self care. Mum rubbing skincare products onto face. Holding mug with hot drink. Mum dancing with child.

Self Care is so important. Your needs are so important, and you need to take good care of yourself. It helps your confidence, self esteem and helps to build a healthy relationship with yourself. Self Care will make you feel better about yourself, and promote positivity in your life. When you are a mum, self care can be trickier. Harder to find the time to do it, knowing you've got a million and one other things to do. But don't forget, you are needed. Your child need you to be there, to be happy, to be strong. They depend on you, and you matter. Taking that time out just for you, is so important. 

So I'm sharing a few self care ideas for a busy mum!


Before I share my ideas, just remember this - This isn't a checklist. You don't have to go along and do all of these things. Self Care is about taking time out for you. Do something you enjoy, something that makes you feel good. Don't do something because you think you should, or you don't like it. That completely defeats the point! So first things first;

Make Time For Yourself 

As a busy mum, it can be so difficult to find any spare time, but its so important to make that time. Whether it's the time when your little ones are at nursery, while they're busy watching their favourite tv show or even when they've gone to bed. Find the time. When you've found some spare time, grab it with open arms! Instead of doing the things you think you should be doing, do something for yourself. 10 minutes everyday, 1 evening a week, whenever you can.

Create Something

Express that creative side and create something. Paint a picture, make some home decor, bake a delicious snack, make a Youtube video. Everyone is capable of being creative in some aspect, and it's so good for you to express it! The options are endless.

woman drinking hot drinking while relaxing on bed and reading a book.


Read A Book

Read that book you've had on your shelf. You know, the one you've been meaning to read but haven't found the time. Or go buy a new book, one that really grabs your attention. Sit down with a cuppa, no tv, no noise. Just you & your book.

Pamper Yourself

Take a nice long bath. Light some candles. Use bath bombs, and those expensive products you've been saving for a special occasion. Today is a special occasion. Pop a hair mask or a face mask on, paint your nails. Do whatever you fancy.

Exercise

Exercise is so important to achieve a healthy lifestyle, and it helps to promote confidence & self esteem. Whether it's a quick youtube workout, a bike ride or heading outside in the fresh air for a quick jog. Whatever you fancy, just release those endorphins!

Watch A Feel Good Movie

My personal favourite. Snuggle in bed with Netflix, or on the sofa under a blanket and watch something happy, something that'll make you feel positive and leave you with a fuzzy feeling inside.

hot drink in windowsill with glasses


Write Something

Write in your journal, write a letter, jot down your goals & aspirations or remind yourself of all the positive things that have happened to you that day.

Get Outside

Go for a nice long walk. Pop your little ones in the pushchair if you want to. Explore somewhere new. Fresh air is amazing, and helps improve your mood and well being.

Do Something That Makes You Feel Like You

This one might be a bit harder to achieve, but it could make you feel amazing. Remember those things you used to do before you had your little ones? Something you loved doing, something that made you feel good, but you just don't seem to do anymore? Go on a spontaneous day out? Go out for coffee with your friends? Dye your hair a crazy colour? What's stopping you doing it now because you have babies? 

Which of these self care ideas is your favourite? 
Let me know what your favourite type of self care is!



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If you have enjoyed reading this post, and found it interesting or helpful, you can say thank you and support Whimsical Mama by buying me a coffee

I'd really appreciate it!