Practicing Self care During a Pandemic

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Having just had Mother’s Day, you may be thinking about self care and how to get it during a pandemic.

Coronavirus and stay at home orders have changed the way we work and the way we live. Getting out of the house for a while by myself whether it was to go sit at a coffee shop and write or even just to Target alone did wonders for my mood. As a mom of small kids who want to be all over me, sometimes I need a breather. These trips were times to clear my head and give myself a mental break from being my kids’ world. I was able to think and do something for myself. 

Then, the coronavirus hit. Everything closed and it wasn’t safe to go out. I was already itching to get out of the house when things turned. I had to cancel coffee with a friend. The risk was too great. But there was also risk in not giving myself a break. 

Self care means different things to different people. The pandemic has forced me to change what it now means to me. The first step is recognizing that you’re burning out and then telling someone. I have a workaholic personality. I can push myself pretty hard before I need a break. When I recognize that I’m losing my mind, I let my husband know. Just by telling him that I need some time to myself helps me to take it. He can then also be accountable for reminding me to do it. 

Next, adjust how you view self care and what you need to do to take time for yourself. For me, it’s some time for my husband to entertain the kids while I write in the basement or do yoga. I also love reading at night after the kids are asleep. It doesn’t need to be something that takes hours. Sometimes just a 20 to 30 minute break can feel like a great recharge. The location has changed, but I can still do the activities that I love. 

That saying that you can’t pour from an empty cup is absolutely true. When I’m close to burning out, I’m snippy and, simply, not a good mom. Giving myself a physical and mental break is essential. 

As the weather warms, getting outside is a great way to practice self care for both you and your kids. Remember that they’ve been cooped up inside too. Have a picnic or go for a walk. Have coffee on the deck while they play in the yard. 

Just because you can’t go out to other places doesn’t mean you give up on self care. It’s even more important now as we have the anxiety of this disease hanging over us. We need the time to decompress and recharge so we can continue to be great parents to our kids. Don’t give up on the things you love to do; just shift location and expectations. Above all, remember to give yourself a break once in a while. You can still get the self care you need.