As a mom we spend a good majority of our time taking care of our family that often times we forget about ourselves, at least I know I’m guilty of putting myself last. Self-care isn’t a luxury but a necessity. Everyone needs to make the time, no matter how small, to take care of yourself.
When you are tired, stressed, with no way to refill and recharge from the daily stressors, it not only affects you but everyone around you. After a rough school year, home school and a rough summer, not knowing what the new school year would bring, I was definitely stressed.
Scrolling through my timeline on Facebook I noticed a post for a “Queendom Self Care Retreat” to Lake Geneva and normally I would have kept scrolling. However, something kept bringing me back to that flyer, even while the introvert in me is saying “don’t go” and the mom in me is worried that the house will implode if I’m gone for a weekend. Eventually I decided I was going to take a chance and go. Stepping out of my comfort zone allowed me to come home happier, more fulfilled, and ready to take on whatever challenges arise.
The Friday morning I was preparing to leave for the retreat, it suddenly set in that in three hours I would be meeting this group of women for the first time at a restaurant in Chicago before riding together to Wisconsin. Nerves and fear said “stay home,” “what if you don’t fit in?”, “it might be a terrible time.” All those negative thoughts swirled through my head.
I pushed through the fear and went. Who would have known that one weekend would change my life? I’ve never been on trip without my husband and or our son Joshua. I realized that one weekend enabled me to overcome fears, let down my guard, accept a tribe of women just like myself, and most importantly learn to put myself first. This trip transformed my view on self-care and the importance of refiling my cup daily, not just when it fits into the schedule.
When I arrived in Wisconsin, in the middle of nowhere, I found no phone signal but an amazing view of the Wisconsin River. Over the next three days I got to know some of the most amazing women. During this weekend I really took time to do things that at home, I never have the time to do.
I got up early enough to write before breakfast. I took time out and just read. Started the morning off with guided meditations and yoga. In between all the workshops, we went exploring the area. I went to my first winery, rode my first horse, experienced my first waterfall in person, and ate the most amazing breakfast in a two car garage converted in the coziest, most eclectic restaurant.
I stepped outside of my comfort zone, spent a weekend nourishing my mind, body, and spirit with new experiences and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. When I made it home Monday, the house was still in one piece. Joshua was fine and everything went smoothly without mom for a few days.
Self Care is Not SelfishAs adults we have fears that might stop us from reaching out to another mom and making a friend, going somewhere alone, or knowing how to navigate adult friendships. Don’t be afraid to try new things, meet new people and step out of your comfort zone. By being uncomfortable, I found a tribe of women that went from strangers to friends. We cried, laughed, experienced a lot of firsts together. It was the most amazing time I’ve ever had. I learned that taking care of me allows me to be better for my family and myself.
Since I’ve returned from the trip I’ve kept the momentum going. I take an hour to myself every since day. I write for 20 minutes. I listen to music for 20 mins and I listen to self-guided meditations each day. In other posts, we have some more simple ideas you could incorporate into your life.
What is your favorite form of self-care throughout the week?
