Parenting & Self-Care
Written by Sonia Bajaj, LPC
Parenting children with behavioral concerns can be challenging, frustrating, and overwhelming. Caregivers often focus so intently on ensuring their children’s well-being that they forget about their own. The fatigue and stress, if not addressed, can continue to build, contributing to an unhealthy dynamic.This article is meant as a reminder that wearing one’s own air mask during the flight of life needn’t be considered a selfish act. On the contrary, the airplane ride is much smoother when adults are equipped with the means necessary to support their children.
Parents and caregivers may find that including self-care in their own routine serves to prepare them to face life’s challenges. For example, taking a few deep breaths or practicing mindfulness before a difficult conversation may help set up a different dynamic for all parties involved. By implementing these strategies, adults may find themselves approaching otherwise frustrating circumstances in a calmer manner. In turn, children may learn that conflict can occur within a safe context that yields productive outcomes or resolutions.
Self-care as a practice varies from individual to individual. Our unique interests, comforts, and hobbies can determine what activities (or lack thereof) best reflect self-care for us. In addition to seeking counseling, some may find drawing, reading, or meditating to be self-regulating. For others, self-care may look like high intensity workouts or motorcycle rides. There is no right or wrong, but creating a list of such activities can be a great place to start on the journey of filling one’s own cup. As your cup fills, so too do those of your loved ones.
Some questions to consider when contemplating ways to incorporate self-care into your routine include, but are not limited to:
When do I feel most rejuvenated and energized?
What activities or practices contribute to this feeling?
How can I manage my schedule or routine to include self-care?
Do I need to create a budget for self-care related items/activities?
Where can I go in my house or neighborhood to practice self-care?
Who can I count on to support and keep me accountable to my self-care plan?
Parents and caregivers can set a wonderful example for children by modeling self-care. Children can also be involved in the process of brainstorming self-care strategies for the family as a unit. In this way, self-care can be both a personal and collaborative pursuit that continues to evolve within the family dynamic. Here’s to caring for ourselves a little more each day! Contact one of our therapists today to learn more about parenting and self-care!