How to Take Care of Yourself

We’ve been reading (and in some of our cases, writing!) reports on how we, as parents, need to really take time out to care for ourselves—both for our own sake as well as our children’s. That’s all well and good, but aside from “read your favorite magazine while your kids nap,” how exactly are we supposed to do that?

Here are a few things you can think about doing in order to care for yourself. My hope is that rather than simply contemplating them, you act on them today!

See the doctor. Many of us take our children to the doctor at the slightest sign of stress, just to be “safe instead of sorry.” Even though we know the cost may be high in terms of our budget, we don’t take chances. But when it comes to ourselves, we do, don’t we? Schedule a doctor appointment for yourself as soon as possible. (I just did this yesterday for both my husband and myself, so I’m in on it too!) Get a full physical exam and find out what you can do to fully support your health—and yourself. Tell your doctor about any health goals you have—even if it’s just this one, to take care of yourself—and see what he or she advises you to do. Also see if there are any immunizations, health screens, or other tests you need based on your level of fitness, risk factors, age, and other elements of your life.

Rest. Stop going to bed late (whether it’s to do laundry, watch Lost episodes on your DVR, or both) and make it a vow to go to bed as early as your children at least twice a week. If that simply isn’t feasible, vow to increase your sleep by 10%. Give your body at least seven hours of rest each night as often as you can. If it’s absolutely impossible, rethink your schedule because it’s essential for your health—and the health of your family—that you do this.

Eat well. This is one that we could all use a little help with, I’m sure. Increase your fruits and veggies intake—even if just by one or two a day at first—and ease up on the red meat, saturated fat, fast food, and soda. Drink lots and lots of water—your body will love you for it! Chew slowly and savor your food so you’ll be full and avoid overeating.

Exercise. Make it fun! Play with your kids, jog around the block, do relay races or other physical games; whatever you do, make sure you are active for at least twenty minutes each day. If you sit at a desk, this is even more crucial. (Take a break every half hour to move your legs if you can.)

Have some fun. Schedule date nights with your significant other. Add a hobby you love back into your life. Schedule a “Me Night” every week—or every other week to start if you must—and do something just for yourself. Your life is not only about raising children and working—it’s about YOU!