The idea of self-care is often overly complicated or just simply misunderstood. Self-care is often glamorized as some sort of splurge, whether a vacation, adult beverage, or shopping trip. This belief can further fuel the misconception that self-care is unattainable or a luxury. In truth, self-care is much more practical and essential to your health. Finding windows of time and activities to help you unwind and focus on yourself isn’t difficult but entails making small choices that promote your overall health and well-being.
Below, we’ll break down the different types of self-care with ideas on how you can prioritize these activities throughout parenthood.
Physical
Physical self-care involves caring for your body to ensure optimal health, increased energy levels, and enhanced mood.
Taking a walk or light jog
Practicing good sleep hygiene
Eating a balanced diet
Drinking enough water (especially while breastfeeding!)
Mental
Mental self-care can reduce stress, sharpen mental clarity, and help you connect more to the present moment.
Trying meditation
Deep breathing exercises
Reading a good book
Emotional
Emotional self-care helps you process and cope with your emotions in healthy ways.
Journaling and self-reflecting
Learning how to set boundaries
Advocating for support, whether through a trusted friend or professional
Spiritual
Spiritual self-care provides a sense of passion and purpose.
Volunteering with a cause that is meaningful to you
Engaging in mindfulness
Practicing gratitude
Intellectual
Intellectual self-care promotes lifelong learning, curiosity, and creativity.
Attending events or other personal and professional development opportunities
Connecting with a positive mentor and role model
Engaging in creative outlets
Environment
Environmental self-care involves creating a supportive and comfortable space that helps you thrive.
Decluttering and organizing
Spending time in nature
Cultivating spaces in your home that promote calm
Social
Social self-care helps you connect to others in positive ways.
Saying yes to coffee with a friend
Spending quality time with your partner
Maintaining boundaries with others as needed
Financial
Financial self-care involves taking steps to reduce debt and plan for stability in your future.
Making a budget
Spending responsibly
Making informed purchases that align with your values
While navigating postpartum, you may find that your body and mind crave certain forms of self-care over others. Don’t pressure yourself to do all of these; rather, make time for the ones that fill your cup most. Remember that something as practical as drinking more water is, in fact, self-care! Celebrate those small wins.