Why Self-Care is Non-Negotiable

As a devoted mother of two, I am steadfast in my commitment to maintaining my mental well-being. Throughout my journey, I’ve come to realize the non-negotiable nature of self-care. Neglecting my personal needs has often resulted in more harm than good for both myself and my family. Countless times, the absence of essential sleep has landed me in the mental hospital. Collaborating with mental health care specialists over the years has taught me valuable lessons: the importance of seeking help when needed, letting go of unattainable perfectionist standards, and embracing the care I deserve without shame.

Discovering Acts of Self-Love and Care:

In my pursuit of self-care, I have cultivated a repertoire of practices that contribute to my overall well-being. While some of these may resonate with you, others are uniquely tailored to my preferences. From my experience, I know that meticulous planning and eliminating excuses are key to following through on these acts.

1. Brightening My Surroundings:
   During my weekly grocery shopping, I make it a point to buy myself fresh flowers from the store. Exploring various bouquets and colors never fails to uplift my mood and bring a vibrant touch to my living space.
2. Scheduling Self-Care:
   To ensure I prioritize self-care, I proactively block off time on my calendar for activities such as exercise classes, salon appointments, and dedicated free days. By reserving these slots in advance, I safeguard them from being overridden by other commitments.
3. An Evening Ritual:
   Each night, I indulge in a brief routine that allows me to reflect, unwind, and release the day’s stresses. This often includes a quick shower or, if time permits, a rejuvenating bath with Epsom salt. I follow it up with a simple moisturizing regimen, blending my favorite lotion, coconut oil, and scented bath oil. A swift face cleansing routine with face wash, aloe vera gel, and vitamin E oil concludes this soothing ritual.
4. Nurturing Connections:
   Recognizing the importance of support, I make time to connect with my girlfriends. Whether it’s through texting, phone calls, or planned lunch and dinner dates, these interactions provide a breath of fresh air. Additionally, I seek out local interest groups or meetups for moms, allowing me to connect with like-minded women and foster a supportive community.
5. Outsourcing and Delegation:
   To prevent feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, I have learned to delegate larger chores and household responsibilities. Bi-weekly housekeeping, professional organizing services, weekly meal prep, evening weeknight babysitting, and carpooling to school are some strategies I’ve employed. The mere thought of managing everything alone can be mentally draining, but having support in place has made a remarkable difference for both myself and my family, enabling me to be the best version of myself.

The significance of self-care cannot be overstated. By making my self-care non-negotiable I consistently experience the positive effects of prioritizing my well-being. I encourage you to draw inspiration from this list and embark on your journey of consistent, non-negotiable self-care and intentional self-love. Remember, by taking care of yourself, you can nurture the happiness and well-being of both you and your loved ones.

–Alex

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