Not always easy as a mama, I know, but it is a non-negotiable. This may be easier if you have a partner that is home regularly, however, this can be done even if they are not. Use the calendar on your phone or a written one of you prefer (here is the link to my printable planners), and book in that time. Whether that's in an evening when the kids go down for bed, a weekend morning when the partner or relative can take the kids to the park, or if you book in a babysitter, YOU time is essential. Ideally this would be at least once a week, but if it only means once a month then do it! Book it in, catch up on on your self care routines and make yourself feel wonderful again. For me, I try to get up early on week days (this means going to bed at a reasonable time) and allowing myself an hour to half hour to do the things that set my day right. A bit of me time with a beverage, a book/inspriational YouTube video, a gratitude journal and just some much needed quiet time before the chaos begins. Starting my day like this makes all the difference. I'm thinking of doing a YouTube video on this, would you like to see that? comment below. Do whatever works for you and your routine, but you are important too and need that time! 

 

Here is my favourite book to snuggle in to at the moment. It really helps you to appreciate all the seasons and practises gratitude. 

 

Carrying on from the suggestion 1, nourish your mind. Gratitude journals, inspirational and motivation books and videos on all platforms. Lets be honest, saocial media can be a mindfield, but if you curate your feeds to inspirational accounts then, although you can still scroll for hours, it is motivational and not depleting. Although important to know what is going on in the world, less time reading the news is beneficial for your mental health. Once a day/week is more than sufficient. If something large and important happens, I am sure the news will make its way to you.  

 

Practise gratitude and mindfulness. I love this journal, however, they have also just launched an app (the five minute journal app) that I am really enjoying at the moment. It makes it easy for me to practise gratitude regularly...but I must say I still love the art of actually writing down with pen and paper.

 

 

Good food and HYRDRATION! I cannot stress enough how important water is for your body! Get yourself a big Stanley cup (or this amazon dupe) and aim to drink the whole thing in a day...two lots if you can! This thermal cup keeps your water cold, has less risk of spilling and holds plenty water so you don't have to keep running to fill it up! Need I say, water is free too!! Ditch the sodas and drink water! Plenty of fruit and veg keeps your mind focused too. If like me you struggle with this though, try a green food supplement along with food from companies like HUEL or PROTEIN WORKS. I love the instant pots which makes my week day lunches so easy and nutritious.

 

We all go through different seasons. In autumn and winter we tend to hibernate, and that is ok. January and February we can get a motivational boost as the new year begins and holidays are on the horizon. Mid year we tend to dip and summers tend to be  a little easier to exercise as the days are longer. Not to forget our cycles ladies...throughout each month we can rise and dip as our cycle changes.

My suggestion? Go with what your body tells you. Are you feeling weights and cardio? Do that! Need something a little slower? try yoga or pilates. You don't need to do the same thing every day or every month.

Me? I prefer to exercise in the mornings, I am just too tired at the end of the day to exercise and I lack motivation. I find exercising in the morning sets up my day right too. Some mornings I feel energetic and I like to do these 15-20 minute dance hits with GROWWITHJO. Other mornings I need something a little slower and so I opt for YOGABYHANNAH. She has some great yoga flows you can purchase and re-use monthly. You can also search on YouTube for slow yoga sessions. The main thing is to keep moving your body.

 

 

Here are some of my favourite beauty products that I use to make me feel like I am taking care of myself, nourishing my body and taking that much needed me time!

 

 

 

 

 

 

The main thing is to focus on you and your wellbeing and know that you are important and worth it.

How we can be the best versions of ourselves for our children if we always have half an empty cup? We put so much effort into motherhood, we deserve that hour a week (or more) to take time for ourselves, to refuel, go again and be the best versions of ourselves. 

Dont put pressure on it, take inspiration from others but make your own routine that works for you!

 

I hope this was helpful. I try to post every Monday over here on the blog, so be sure to check back next week!