Life’s journey can take unexpected twists and turns, especially when it comes to our mental health.
Many of us, including myself, often face these challenges silently, not fully realizing the weight of the issues we are dealing with. We may assume that feeling a certain way is just part of the human experience, which is why we overlook the importance of holistic self-care.
When I became a mother for the first time, I found myself on an emotional roller coaster. I wasn’t prepared for the unspoken challenges of postpartum, and as I continued on with my life, unforeseen issues emerged, putting extra pressure on my mental well-being.
I was just going through the motions without realizing that my emotions were quietly influencing every aspect of my life, including my daily routines, family relationships, and most importantly, my role as a mother.
I realized that in order to become a better version of myself and be the best mother for my kids, I needed to prioritize self-care. I started by setting intentional goals for my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
These powerful steps and holistic approach can serve as a guide for your own self-care journey:
Physical Well-being:
- Committing to regular exercise, incorporating daily walks, running, and home workouts to enhance my physical health.
- Focusing on maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet by choosing healthier food options.
- Recognizing the importance of rest, I made a conscious effort to ensure I got enough sleep.
Mental Well-being:
- Incorporating mindfulness into my routine by writing a journal, taking a walk in nature, or some ‘me time’ has significantly contributed to maintaining my mental wellness.
- Engaging in activities that kept my brain active by reading books, learning new skills, and taking online courses.
- Establishing healthy boundaries to manage stressors and prevent mental exhaustion. It became a key factor in nurturing a healthier mindset.
Emotional Well-being:
- Granting myself the freedom to express and process emotions without judgment, with journaling becoming a therapeutic outlet for self-reflection.
- Building a strong support system and maintaining open communication with loved ones played a vital role in nurturing my emotional well-being.
- Learning to set realistic expectations and practicing self-compassion, I embraced the imperfections, understanding that it’s okay not to be perfect.
Spiritual Well-being:
- Exploring my spiritual side through practices such as prayer and connecting with nature has helped me find a sense of purpose and inner peace.
- Taking time for self-reflection and embracing gratitude has become integral to my journey toward spiritual well-being.
- Learning and dedicating time to mindfulness and meditation activities are essential practices that enrich my spiritual journey.
By setting goals in each of these four areas—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—I started a holistic self-care journey, addressing different aspects of my well-being as a mother. This comprehensive approach not only contributed to my personal growth but also positively impacted my ability to care for and support my family.
It has been over a year into this transformative journey, and I find myself in a significantly better place. I’m learning to let go of negative thoughts, paying closer attention to my feelings, and focusing on becoming a better version of myself.
Of course, I’m far from perfect, and some days are tough, but what matters to me is that I’m still on this journey. I celebrate my progress and commit to continuing this journey, not just for my children but for myself. I am determined to live a life filled with purpose and happiness.
Life’s journey is like a quick stop at a train station—our time is limited. And in that fleeting moment, imagine if we all worked on being better humans; maybe, just maybe, we could spark some positive changes in this world.
So, here’s to our journey toward becoming our best selves and supporting others in doing the same—one step at a time!