Mama Self-care

Have you ever wondered how you can truly take care of your kids while ensuring you take care of yourself?

Hey there, it's Dr. Cynthia Hawver, and in this episode of the Mama Shrink Podcast, we're diving deep into a topic close to my heart: self-care for moms. As a licensed psychologist and certified coach, I've witnessed the struggles many moms face in balancing their own needs with the demands of parenting. While I'm not a substitute for mental health care, I'm here to discuss the importance of self-care and how it directly impacts your role as a mother.

We kick off by exploring the guilt that often accompanies the idea of self-care. Contrary to popular belief, prioritizing self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. I emphasize that neglecting self-care can actually lead to feelings of emptiness and burnout, inadvertently making us less available to our loved ones.

During this episode, I tackle the issue of judgment and perfectionism. I share my personal experiences as a people pleaser, highlighting the fear of what others might think when we take time for ourselves. The truth is, it's okay to let go of these worries and set a positive example for our children by demonstrating self-care.

We then delve into the challenge of finding time for self-care. I urge you to question the belief that there's never enough time and to recognize that if something truly matters, we can make time for it. Remember, making time for self-care doesn't have to be complicated – even a few minutes a day can make a significant difference.

The heart of this episode centers around the concept that self-care is a gift – a gift to yourself, your family, and your children. The key takeaways are simple but profound: let go of guilt and "shoulds," challenge the fear of judgment, release the pursuit of perfection, and make even small moments of self-care a priority. By nurturing yourself, you're setting the foundation for a healthier and happier life for both you and your loved ones.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for effective parenting.
• Guilt, judgment, and perfectionism often hinder self-care efforts.
• Making time for yourself is a crucial aspect of maintaining well-being.
• Small acts of self-care can have a significant impact on mental health.
• Prioritizing self-care sets a positive example for your children.

 

Resources:

• Mama Shrink Podcast: Website
• Dr. Cynthia Haver's Website: http://www.drcynthiah.com
• Connect with Dr. Cynthia on Social Media: @dr.cynthiahawver
• National Suicide Crisis Line https://988lifeline.org/ - Call or text 988 if you're struggling with a mental health issue.