Homemaking Challenged: 7 Simple Ways to Take Care of You

Yesterday, I shared WHY it is important to take care of yourself. Today I am sharing a few of the things I have learned that will help you take care of yourself, the Homemaker/mom and avoid burnout.

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Mentally

Start your day off right

This will mean something different for each person. It may mean doing things the night before so your morning isn't as rushed, it may mean getting up early and spending some time prepping for your day. Plan ahead so that you first few hours of the day, aren't rushed and stressed. It is the first few hours of your day that sets the tone for your entire day, set your day up right!

Be good to yourself every day

Work-out, drink coffee, meditate, call a friend, read a book for run, play an instrument, write, paint, create, dance. Find whatever your "thing" is and do it! For a long time, I didn't even know what my "thing" was anymore. Turns out, for me it is writing. Discover what it is for you and do it, even just for a few minutes, every day. It is no selfish, it is necessary. Would you deprive your child of their favorite toy for no reason, other than they are "too busy"? NO! You would make sure they had time to play with it. You are not the exception. You need to do something fun, just for you, everyday.

Physically

Increase your water

This may sound silly, but being dehydrated is no joke. Your body functions better when you have enough water in it. Water is really important, upping your water intake is key in keeping stress low. Most people don't drink enough water, and odds are, you are one of them. It may seem silly and simple, but it really helps and if you haven't been getting enough water, after a few days you will physically notice a difference.

Make Healthy Choices

Go for a walk, give up soda (I did this 6 months ago, and if I can do it, ANYONE can), choose to eat healthier. Small changes can have a big impact. Take some small steps to stay healthy. Just make one healthy choice a day, overtime it will add up to a healthier you.

Sleep

This may be the hardest one for those who have little kids, but it can be done. Don't stay up late and wake up early. It is just makes you exhausted, and unproductive. Honestly, if you stay home, take a nap with the kids one day, go to bed at the same time as them one night (I do this on occasion and it works wonders), the house work can wait. If you are married let your hubby spend time with the kids one morning, and give you an extra hour of sleep. I understand that things happen, and babies keep you awake, but find times to try and catch up and find a way to get the right amount of sleep. It is important! Copious amounts of coffee, is only a short term fix, but will do the trick in a pinch.

Spiritually

Surround yourself with beauty

This is different for every person. It could mean new throw pillows, or fresh flowers on your table, a new color of paint on a wall, a corner of the house that you claim to decorate. Find something in your home that you can look at, and smile to yourself. Look at the beauty around you outside, and soak it in. It is good for your soul to admire beauty.

Spend time with God

I have saved the best, and most important tip for last. As a Christian, I could not do anything apart from my creator. When I am burnt out, it is because I am not filling up on His word or spending time in prayer. Plugging into God will fill you up and keep you sane, two very important things to be while running a home. Go to God to fill you up, He will keep you sane and get you through even the hardest and craziest of times.

I sincerely hope that one, or all of these tips will help you stay refreshed, allow you to take care of yourself and avoid burnout.

I would love to hear which one you are going to try, or which one works for you.