Self-care

I’ve never been very good at admitting I need time to myself. I’ve also never been very good at allowing myself to relax. Bit of a dilemma there. Since becoming a Mum I have realised the importance of self-care and allowing yourself to have time by yourself. As soon as you give birth your sense of individuality is gone, at least for a short time. You are no longer ‘Jess’, you are now ‘Mummy’. A little human needs you 24/7 and that can be very overwhelming, both mentally and physically.

Finding small things throughout your day for you are so important at reminding you that you still have your own needs. Taking an extra long shower. Painting your nails. Reading a book. Ask someone to help and look after the baby, even if it’s just for 15 minutes so you can have some time to yourself. It really does make the world of difference. I took half an hour to myself last week whilst Matt watched football with Ivy and I felt like a new woman afterwards! 

I’ve booked to go out for a long lunch this week with another one of my Mum friends (who deserves it more than most!) and I’m both nervous and excited. Nervous to leave my little girl for the day as the longest I’ve been without her is for an hour whilst she was with her Daddy. Excited for a bit of me time where I can properly relax and unwind. Although, let’s be honest, I probably won’t fully relax as I will be wondering if Ivy is okay the whole time! I planned to have a week off of work before having Ivy but it didn’t end up working out like that, I don’t feel as if I’ve had a proper break since before being pregnant so this is very much needed. Don’t ever feel bad for admitting you need some time for self-care. If Mummy is happy, baby is happy. 

What do you do to relax? Any recommendations?

Jess x