Self-care for busy parents: Easy ways to recharge

Being a parent can be overwhelming at times, and it’s all too easy for self-care to fall to the bottom of your priority list. Let International Self-Care Day on 24 July remind you that it doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Here are some affordable ways busy parents can recharge in just a few minutes.

Take a 5-minute reset

Think of it as hitting the refresh button on your brain. For five minutes, stop doing, fixing and responding. Take a few deep breaths, walk around the garden, savour a coffee while it’s still hot, or close your eyes and listen to a song you love. It’s less about what you do and more about giving your mind a brief chance to catch up.

Move your body

No, you don’t need to find an hour to visit the gym. Making movement part of your day can be as easy as doing a squat (or five) every time your child says “Mom” (or “Dad”). Or a burpee. Or star jumps. Bonus? Housework also counts as movement! And don’t forget, if you prioritise your fitness, your children will prioritise theirs, too.

Don’t postpone joy

Make a list of joy ‘snacks’ – small, achievable acts that fill your cup – and either schedule them into your day or set reminders on your phone. Don’t wait to start enjoying your life! This could be as simple as having your favourite snacks or brand of flavoured tea on hand. Listen to your favourite podcast. Take a minute to notice something you are truly grateful for. Realise that joy is a choice.

Look better, feel better

It’s all too easy to put hygiene, grooming and our appearance at the bottom of the priority list – but you know you feel better when you’re freshly washed and put-together. This doesn’t have to be time consuming. For some moms, simply making time to shower and wash their hair is enough. But finding a few multipurpose products and a five-minute make-up routine can do wonders for your mood.

Photography: Freepik