Advice for busy mothers: the importance of self-care

In today’s busy society, mother’s must juggle multiple duties and increasing work pressures. They are more prone to being physically and emotionally exhausted, and subsequently, a range of anxiety, depressive, and stress related symptoms. Here are three essential self-care tips to help renew and enhance well-being, as well as to cope with stressful times:

• Restorative breaks (as needed): a block of time, ideally at least two hours, that is totally free for relaxation, to nurture and replenish oneself, free from the pervading “should” and “have to”. During this period of ‘time out alone’, there are no telephone calls, texts, Internet or chores to do. Examples of what one may do during this time include, resting at home and reading a book, listening to relaxing music, or taking a bath.
• At least one positive enjoyable activity (on a regular basis): these can be very varied, such as walks along the beach or nature, bike riding, yoga, other sports/exercise, relaxation/meditation, gardening, art, and socializing. The key thing is that the activity is enjoyable and enhances well-being. At times, it might be important to ask for help with looking after kids, including from other family members if possible, or other mums.
• Self-kindness: we can be very good at being our harshest critic, especially in the face of adversity when kindness to ourselves is most needed. Self-kindness is about being open to experiences in the present moment, including set backs, disappointments, and mistakes, without judging ourselves or our experience. It is important for mums to know that they are not alone in their challenges, and to recognize their positive strengths.

By Dr Roberta Szekeres, Clinical Psychologist