Why I think Self-care is so important

A couple of months ago, I decided it is time that I invested more in myself. I know that sounds weird…

Like didn’t I take care of myself before… Well, the truth is I never really did self-care. I never woke up earlier so that I could have time for myself. Let’s face it as a mom you think that you need every extra second of sleep….

I did not pamper myself with a facial or even a visit to the spa. I felt guilty – thinking that the money could be used elsewhere. I just focused on work and home – which many of us do.

Reports say that 78% of moms say that they put off taking care of their own health to care for family members.

My self-care journey has been a work in progress and finally, I am in a happy space where I feel that I can share more with you.

Around a year ago, I found out that I have Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) which kind of turned my world upside down. Everything had to change – from my eating to exercising. At first, I ignored it until I started seeing that things were getting worse. From irregular periods to weight gain and mood swings.

I think that I was living in denial. How does someone end up with PCOS after kids? I spent months researching and chatting with friends about this.

I think that is the first time that I had to really think about self-care.

It pushed me to look at the bigger picture. If mama isn’t in a good place, how will she take care of everyone else?

So earlier this year, I went on a mom-cation which was exactly what I needed after a crazy 2018! It gave me “the me time” that I was craving for.

By the way, mom-cations will be a yearly thing for me!

A few months ago, a friend of mine – Carla who owns My Skin Spa asked me to come through for a little pamper treatment because she knows how crazy my life has been. What I assumed would be a lovely relaxed morning turned out to be a little different. She massaged me and then stopped and said we need to talk…

“Shan, you have muscle knots on your back and neck. I’m sorry but this isn’t going to be a typical massage. I don’t know how you are still working with so much pain.”  

I looked at her and knew exactly what she was talking about. I’ve been struggling with my back for months, but I ignored it. I had to make tough choices and financially a massage was the last thing on my list but that’s no excuse. I wasn’t exactly fit either.

The correct term for knots is “Myofascial trigger points”. It can become unbearable and caused headaches. So that day she worked through it and we did a follow-up treatment to work some more on it. Honestly, I was in so much pain! It hasn’t fully disappeared, but I am managing it now.

If you are looking for an awesome place to visit in Morningside for a massage, check out My Skin Spa.

My Skin Spa specialises in reflexology, massage and the skin. Their skin treatments include superficial to medium depth chemical peels, micro-needling, advanced and basic facials.
They can be contacted on the Sticks and Stones number 0879403893 or via email on [email protected]

A few weeks later, I started listening to Robin Sharma’s 5 am club audiobook which has been a complete game-changer for me. I decided to take on the challenge. That meant getting up at 5 am every morning and doing the 20/20/20 formula.

I joined the 5 am club over 2 months ago and now I know why people are raving about it. Everything changed! I finally had time to focus on me before the chaos began for the day.

I’ve been working out every day, I changed my diet and even dedicated time to pamper sessions at home. I am the happiest I’ve been in a long time. This new lifestyle change has also helped my mental health and mom guilt.

If there’s anything that you should take away from this post, it should be that self-care is extremely important for us moms! Make time for you and do something you enjoy, even if it’s taking yourself out for lunch or a movie. Self-care shouldn’t be optional.

I’ve seen myself grow and change over these last 2 months. I have more energy and now spend good quality time with my kids – not thinking about work all the time. I don’t have time to scroll on social media for hours and get FOMO. I meet friends more often without feeling guilty about it and spoil myself when I feel like saving a little bit of my money in my Tyme Bank account (definitely worth the sign up).

A few self-care tips:

1. Make sure you don’t neglect your health! Go for those regular check-ups or massages if need be.
2. Stay connected to yourself – pursue a hobby, read or meditate.
3. Sleep well.
4. Wake up early if need be so you can have some time for you to workout.
5. Do little things that make a difference to how you feel – like a mask while you are cleaning or scrub in the shower.
6. Meet friends – being around your people helps with your mental health!
7. Listen to your favourite songs and dance if you feel like it! 😉