Do you usually neglect self-care while caring for your little one?
As parents, we often stop doing things we used to like and neglect our own needs and caring for and spoiling ourselves. It is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed by parenting and unable to cope because it seems to us that we have no time at all. At Lullaai we would like to remind you that we adults also need to look after ourselves and be cared for by those around us. By ensuring our wellbeing, we will also contribute to the health and wellbeing of our family and loved ones. For example, the calmer we are, the easier it will be for us to convey calmness to our little ones as they learn to navigate their emotions. We can also be more present when we are with our babies to consciously, lovingly and sensitively respond to their needs.
With this in mind, we remember that when we become parents we cannot overlook the other areas where that is not our role and must carry on strengthening our social life, hobbies, professions, body, food and rest in order to thereby set a self-care example for our little ones and show them that we recognise and attend to our emotions, love and care for ourselves, ask for help when necessary, support each other as carers and respect our own and other people’s limits.
However, we also recognise a lack at times of the necessary tools or expertise to implement habits that help us keep this balance. We would therefore like start providing you with new information to help you gradually implement healthy habits that contribute to your wellbeing without disregarding your important role as parent. How does that sound?
Lullaai tips for your wellbeing
Let us begin with tips that help you ease anxiety and focus on the present moment when you are with your little one and when doing other things. A strategy that has spread in recent years because of its positive effects is mindfulness. Mindfulness is a meditation practice that will allow you to focus your entire attention on the present moment without seeking judgment and keeping an open mind about everything that is happening and whatever you are thinking. Proven benefits include greater awareness of spaces and people around you, enjoyment of every moment and quietening of your thoughts.
How to begin
When you get up or before you go to sleep concentrate on 3 deep breaths and then focus on your breathing for 5 minutes.
Future articles will elaborate on this practice and provide more tips for you to implement this daily. Hopefully, they will be useful to you.