Imagine a working mom, juggling work deadlines, and bedtime stories. She knows how self-care is important, but sometimes society whispers differently. Is prioritising a yoga class or a quiet evening with a book seen as neglecting her family?
Let’s explore the evolving views on millennial working moms and self-care, where taking a well-deserved breath isn’t a burden, but a path to becoming a happier, more fulfilled mom for everyone she loves.
Being a millennial working mom is a remarkable journey filled with love, joy, and a fair share of challenges. Balancing the responsibilities of a career while nurturing a family is no small feat, and it often requires superhuman levels of energy and dedication.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of work deadlines, school runs, meal preparations, and countless other tasks, it’s easy for moms to overlook their own needs. However, self-care is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Here’s why having a quick and effective self-care routine is crucial for millennial working moms:
First, it’s important to acknowledge the concept of the “invisible load.” This refers to the mental and emotional effort required to manage a household and family, which often goes unrecognised but can be incredibly exhausting.
Working moms, especially millennials, frequently juggle numerous roles – from being a professional at work to being a care-giver, cook, cleaner, and emotional anchor at home. This constant balancing act can lead to burnout if self-care is neglected.
Taking time off for self-care often has a positive impact on physical health. But if a woman is constantly stressed out and exhausted, it leads to a poor immune system, making moms more susceptible to illnesses.
So one must engage themselves in regular self-care activities, even if they are brief, such as a 10-minute stretch, a short walk, or a quick meditation session, can significantly reduce stress levels. These activities help in maintaining a healthy body, ensuring that moms have the energy they need to keep up with their busy schedules.
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Working moms often face high levels of stress, which can lead to anxiety and depression if not managed properly. A quick self-care routine can include practices like journaling, deep-breathing exercises, or listening to calming music.
These small moments of peace and reflection can help moms clean their minds, process their emotions, and approach their daily tasks with a more positive outlook.
Self-care also enhances emotional resilience. When moms take time to care for themselves, they are better equipped to handle the emotional upheavals that come with parenting and work.
This resilience not only benefits them but also their children. Children learn by observing their parents, and when they see their moms prioritising self-care, they learn the importance of taking care of their own well-being as well.
A well-rested and emotionally balanced mom is better able to nurture her relationships. When moms are stressed and exhausted, it can strain relationships with their partners, children, and colleagues.
On the other hand, taking time for self-care helps moms to be more patient, present, and loving. This positively impacts the entire family dynamic and fosters a supportive and harmonious home environment.
At work, self-care translates to increased productivity and efficiency. When moms take care of their well-being, they are more focused, creative, and motivated.
This can lead to better performance and job satisfaction. Employers also benefit from having employees who are healthy and happy, as this reduces absenteeism and turnover.
Many working moms struggle with guilt when they take time for themselves, feeling that they should be spending every moment on their family or work. However, it’s crucial to understand that self-care is not selfish; it’s essential.
Moms who take care of themselves are in a better position to take care of others. Overcoming this guilt and recognizing the value of self-care is a significant step toward a healthier and happier life.
Being a working millennial mom comes with its unique set of challenges. Balancing work responsibilities with the demands of motherhood can be overwhelming. It’s essential to prioritise self-care to maintain physical and mental well-being.
Here are some quick and effective self-care routines tailored for busy moms, emphasising simplicity, practicality, and empathy.
Starting your day with a few minutes of mindfulness can set a positive tone. You don’t need to meditate for hours; just a brief, focused breathing exercise or a moment of quiet reflection can make a difference.
This is how you can practise. First, Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take deep breaths. Then, Focus on your breath and let go of any distracting thoughts. Even 5 minutes can help reduce stress and increase clarity for the day ahead.
Repeat this mantra everyday,
I am doing the best I can with the resources I have available. I am an amazing mum and I am proud of everything I do, every single day.
Proper hydration and balanced nutrition are foundational to your well-being. It’s easy to forget these basics in the rush of daily life, but they are crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall health.
Keep a water bottle handy and set reminders to drink water throughout the day. Opt for quick, healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or yoghurt. Plan meals ahead of time to avoid unhealthy, last-minute choices.
You don’t need a full gym session to benefit from physical activity. Incorporating short bursts of exercise into your day can boost your mood and energy levels.
This is what you can do: Take a brisk walk during your lunch break. Do a quick 10-minute workout at home. Use apps or online videos for guided exercises that fit your schedule.
Dedicating time solely for yourself is essential.
Whether it’s reading a book, taking a bath, or engaging in a hobby, ‘me time’ helps you recharge. Schedule it like an important meeting. Inform your family about this time to ensure you’re not disturbed. Even 15-30 minutes can make a significant difference.
Spending quality time with family and friends provides emotional support and enhances your well-being. Human connections are vital for mental health.
You can implement it like this: Having a family game night. Scheduling regular video calls with friends. Sharing a meal together without distractions. Also, don’t forget to have separate quality times with your husband too. Emotional intimacy spices up relationships.
Self-care also means taking care of your appearance, but it doesn’t have to be time-consuming. A simplified beauty routine can make you feel good without taking up too much time.
Quality sleep is non-negotiable. It’s during sleep that your body repairs itself and your mind processes the day’s events. Prioritising sleep can drastically improve your mood and productivity.
You may follow these tips for a better sleep. Establish a regular sleep schedule. Create a relaxing bedtime routine: read a book, listen to calming music, or practise gentle stretches. Ensure your sleep environment is comfortable and free from electronic distractions.
Every day, before you go to sleep, remind yourself of all the amazing things you did that day. You will be surprised by how many amazing things you will come up with once you give it a good thought.
Focusing on the positives can shift your mindset and improve your overall outlook on life. Practising gratitude helps you appreciate the small joys and can reduce stress.
Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you’re thankful for each day. Reflect on positive moments before going to bed. Share your gratitude with others, enhancing positive feelings and connections.
Self-care for working millennial moms doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. By incorporating these simple and effective routines into your daily life, you can nurture your well-being, balance your responsibilities, and find joy in both your personal and professional roles.
By prioritising self-care, working moms not only enhance their own quality of life but also set a positive example for their children and contribute to a more balanced and loving family environment. Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity that empowers moms to be the best version of themselves in all aspects of their lives.
So, to all the working moms out there – take that first step towards self-care, because you deserve it.