When you’re a parent, finding time to practice self-care can be difficult. But self-care is important, especially when you’re stressed out or short on time, because caring for your little one becomes extra difficult if you’re not caring for yourself.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to practice self-care, even when you’re short on time. Just 10 minutes of self-care a day can make a real difference!
Here are 5 ways parents can give themselves 10 minutes of self-care a day.
1. Write in a journal
As a parent, you probably spend a lot of time worrying about how your little one is feeling. But your emotions are important, too! Journaling is a great way to explore your emotions and express how you’re feeling, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center. Studies have also found that journaling can help with anxiety and stress and may even boost your immune system!
Studies have found that mindfulness meditation can help reduce anxiety, stress, and depression! To practice mindfulness meditation, spend 10 minutes letting the thoughts flow freely through your mind. Pay attention to your breathing, how your body is feeling, and observe any emotions you experience. If you’re not sure how to start your meditation practice, there are plenty of meditation apps as well as guided meditation videos on YouTube that can help you get started.
3. Take a walk
Going for a short walk can help boost both physical and mental health, according to the Mayo Clinic! Walking around your neighborhood can help ease stress and boost your mood while improving cardiovascular fitness and strengthening your muscles. Just a little bit of exercise can also help increase your energy levels—and what parent couldn’t use a little energy boost?
4. Get outside
Whether you’re going for a stroll or just soaking up some rays, simply being outdoors has been shown to improve your mental state! If possible, spend some time in nature when you go outside, whether it’s your backyard, local park, the beach, or a forest trail. According to one study, spending 120 minutes a week in nature can boost health and well-being. If nature isn’t easily accessible, don’t despair! Simply going outside and exposing yourself to a little sunlight can also have real health benefits, according to Harvard Health Publishing.
5. Make art
You don’t have to be the next Picasso to enjoy making art! Whether you’re painting a masterpiece or simply enjoying a coloring book, making art can have real mental health benefits, according to the Mental Health Foundation. If visual arts aren’t your thing, spend 10 minutes dancing, making music, or trying your hand at poetry. According to one study, visual arts, movement-based creative expression (i.e. dance), music, and expressive writing can all have a positive impact on your mental health!
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