Importance of Self Care as a Parent.

It does not matter if I am talking to a police officer, a marketing coordinator, a nurse, a stay-at-home mom or a CEO of a company time seems to be a problem for many of us. I first thank you for taking the 5 minutes to slow down to read this blog. I also challenge you to try to impact the next generation with minor adjustments in your own life.

First, self-care is self-love. Self-love has a mushroom cloud effect on everyone in our lives. Everyone but especially our children are affected.  It is like when we put our masks on first on an airplane then we can help others put their masks on.  This is the same when we practice self-care.  When we take care of our physical, mental, emotional, social, and fiscal health we are nicer, more patient, calmer, and more loving. 

Second, It sets a good example. I always say “Our children learn by what they see”. We can tell our children a thousand times “Pick up your clothing” yet if we leave our clothing on the floor we are basically telling them to “do as I say not as I do” and that rarely works.  

Third, self-care improves relationships. When we exercise, we feel happy and healthy. This leads to the projection of a higher level of confidence. The confidence then leads to a sexy outfit and well we can leave the rest up to your imagination. Wink, wink.  

Fourth, exercise improves both cognitive and physical function. According to the CDC, (https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/features/physical-activity-brain-health) “Physical activity can help you think, learn, problem-solve, and enjoy an emotional balance. It can improve memory and reduce anxiety or depression. Regular physical activity can also reduce your risk of cognitive decline, including dementia.”

Last, but not least, it is a fun way to bond with children and spouses. A fun activity rainy day activity I do with my children and I do is the “roller coaster ride”. Imagine a ten-year-old on my back while a youtube video of our favorite roller coaster is playing in front of us. When the roller coaster on the screen moves right I move right,  when it goes left, I go left. When it goes up I stand. All while my child gets the time of her life, we get time together, and we laugh until our belly’s hurt. Talk about a great workout in 5 minutes but cherished times together.