Motherhood Monday: Balancing Self-Care and Family Time

Happy Monday! The boys are headed to a basketball camp and Audrey and I are off to meet my SILs and nieces for a nice little coffee date! Today, I’m back to sharing a little Motherhood Monday post – this month is all about balancing self care and family time.

There are actually some Moms out there that I wonder – how on Earth do you do it all and stay sane?! I remember feeling bad that I couldn’t keep up with that pace and felt unable to do ALL THE THINGS, but I stopped comparing years ago. The truth is, how this household functions relies heavily on how well my husband and I are “functioning”. Balancing our own personal time and family time is extremely important for our overall health and the health of our home.

As a mom, working or SAHM, balancing of family life and personal needs can be challenging. Over the past couple years in particular, I have found it crucial to set aside time for myself. I’m not talking anything grandiose, just little snippets in my day to regain my own personal “energy”. The balancing act is not easy, but trying your best to do some things for yourself daily is so important. Here is why I feel it is so important:

Better Mental Health: When I have some quiet or alone time – it seriously helps change my mood allowing me to be calmer and a little more patient.
Better Physical Health: Eating well, stretching and exercising has really helped change my mood. When I get odd balance in this area, I can feel moody, which doesn’t serve anyone right. During the summer months, my exercise looks a bit different than it does right now. I try to get outside early to get flower farm work done before the kiddos wake so I don’t ruin our day – this means getting to the gym in the mornings is almost unheard of! During the winter months, my goal is to workout 2 times a week with weights and get out and walk the dog at our favorite path!
More Quality Time and Stronger Relationships: Giving yourself the time of day allows you to be more fully present and engaged with family, creating a more positive relationship with one another.
Serving as a Role Model: I want my kids to see the importance of taking time for themselves. Having downtime, relaxing and exercising are all important learning lessons on how they should care for themselves beyond our home.

Here are a couple self-care tips I try to follow:

1. Morning Routine

I can’t stress the importance of a really good morning routine! I set the tone of my day rather than waking immediately to care for others around me frantically. Prayer is an important part of the morning – so some quiet reflection can help set the day off on the right foot!

2. Exercise

As mentioned above – I’ve been trying to incorporate exercise into my week – weights, walking or even some deep stretching, I find this can help my mood and energy levels.

3. Time Blocking your Day

It has been so helpful for me to set rough blocks of time in my day set aside for my chores. I know what to expect in my day and know when I finish those chores, I can take a short break so I don’t get burnt out. I love that my Grandma used to have a mid afternoon tea break – this is something I would love to incorporate!

4. Creative Outlet

Having something you enjoy that you can feel fulfilled doing is super important for your self care. Whether it’s a hobby, club or creative activity, this can help fulfill certain voids in your life you may be experiencing and give you an outlet to express yourself. My flowers have been that for me, along with this blog and my community’s garden club I’ve been a part of for the past 3 years!

5. Nurturing Relationships

Making time for family and friends is so important! Scheduling regular coffee dates, breakfasts or dinners are so important! The amount of laughter and happiness these relationships bring is so good for your overall health!

7. Setting Boundaries

Set boundaries to ensure that you have time for yourself. It’s okay to say no to things commitments that might overwhelm you – this has been work in progress over at our home!

8. Quality Family Time

Balance self-care with family time by engaging in activities that everyone loves. We love playing games together, going for walks, going on adventures, baking and crafting together! Setting aside quality family time makes you feel less guilty and allows you to fully enjoy one another!

I hope this post is helpful! Incorporating time to nurture yourself daily is not selfish – it allows you to fill your cup up and maintain a balanced life of health and happiness! I’ve personally noticed I am more patient and a better Mom when I’m able to meet my personal needs in a day. Remember, taking care of yourself is one of the best ways to take care of your family!

Happy birthday to the sweetest girl, my extra set of Mom eyes and fellow aquarian, our first doggie, the best friend we all needed and the best addition to our family 🥰 we love you Nellie! 21 looks good on you girl - SLLAAYYYY 🪩💃✨

My heroes. Saving the world before bedtime 🌙🌃

Welcome to the fam sweet Nellie girl 💜We love our floofs!

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