A Guide to Parent Self Care
Self-care is often not a parent’s number one priority. First and foremost, parents tend to the wants and needs of their child, and everything the parent wants and needs comes in a resounding second place. But, parents should to take care of themselves to properly care for their children. Below, we've compiled some self care tips for parents. You've probably thought of these things before, but just never taken the time to do them. You know what they say, there's no time like the present!
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How to Take Care of Yourself as a Parent Guide
Term Life Insurance
An important factor that many parents don't think about or don't want to think about, is the need for a life insurance policy. Having a term life insurance policy set in place is an important way to not only take care of yourself but also a way to take care of your children in case you pass away and they are left not only without you to care for them, but also without your income. A term life insurance policy gives you piece of mind and can relieve some stress, giving you one less thing to worry about. It's no different than taking the steps to choose godparents or assign a legal guardian who will take care of your children if both parents suddenly pass away. And if only one parent passes, then the life insurance policy will help the other parent keep up with household bills and other financial responsibilities. #stressrelief
Take Care of Yourself
Living without self care for too long, however, will do neither parents nor their children any good. It will lower the parent’s morale and make them more susceptible to fatigue, and as a result, your children won’t get the care they need. If you feel that you, as a parent, are guilty of not taking care of yourself as often as you need to, then, you need to make a change. To learn what else you can do to take care of yourself without forgoing your responsibilities as a parent, be sure to check out the following self care tips for parents.
Take Naps!
Your kids do it, so can you! If you find yourself with some spare time on your hands (if the grandparents offer to have your child for the afternoon, for instance,) don’t feel that you need to spend your free time cleaning the house or shopping for groceries Spend your child break wisely, even if that means taking a little nap. Sleeping is always an excellent idea for worn out parents, especially those that feel particularly run down, and even a few minutes of little cat naps here and there can prove beneficial. Don't feel guilty, no matter the time of the day, if you feel in need of some rejuvenation, take a quick nap. You'll be less likely to snap at your kids in anger, you'll have more energy to play with your kids, and you'll feel better. Never underestimate the power of sleep!
Get Regular Exercise
On the other hand, physical activity can also prove to be a significant benefit. Whether you head to the gym, go on a run, take a brisk walk, or workout at home while your child is playing or sleeping, you will release endorphins when you engage in physical activity, and these endorphins will make you feel instantly more positive. When you are tasked with the demanding job of being a parent, being positive as often as you can is pivotal, which, in turn, makes exercising regularly a must. When you feel tired, but struggle falling asleep, exercise can be the key to a good night's sleep. Try it! Instead of taking that nap, exercise for twenty minutes, see if your mind isn't clearer after. You'll probably have more energy as you add exercise to the mix.
If you really are opposed to strength training and cardio work, then why not try yoga or Pilates? This form of exercise, will release the endorphins as mentioned above just as well and may be easier on your muscles. You van even do many exercises lying in your bed, just before you go to sleep. What’s more, it will keep you in shape both physically and mentally to boot. When you are happy and healthy, you'll be much better parent!
Engage in Therapy
For more information on how you can engage in a therapeutic program, particularly one that is centered around substance abuse and mental health, make sure to check out Forwardrecovery.com. With compassionate and effective programs, Forward Recovery could help you to become not only a better parent but also a better person.
By making simple changes, planning for the future, and taking care of yourself, both you and your children will benefit. Take the advice in our self care tips above and start putting yourself first for a change. Self care while you're parenting is essential to a healthy family life. Don't feel guilty to take the time to make plans for yourself!
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