Self-care is about honoring your body and mind as the invaluable tools they are and committing to care for them in ways that make you feel happy, relaxed, and calm. Practicing self-care doesn’t just benefit you — it benefits everyone around you, too. So how can you practice self-care with kids? Below are six ideas to get you started.
1. Take a Deep Breath
When stressed, your body and mind send signals that cause you to breathe more rapidly. This triggers a fight-or-flight response that can be helpful in dangerous situations, but it’s not so useful when you feel as if you don’t have enough time or energy for everything on your to-do list. Mindful breathing exercises are one way to step out of stress mode. Close your eyes and take three deep breaths, focusing on nothing but the breath entering and leaving your body.
2. Eat Healthily
Encourage your children to eat healthy foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products. These foods are high in fiber and protein, which helps keep you full longer and lowers cholesterol levels.
Talk to your kids about eating healthfully. Choose a day each week — such as taco Tuesday or pasta night — to get them excited about eating healthy meals together as a family.
3. Write in a Journal
“The unexamined life is not worth living,” Socrates once said. In your self-care journal, get curious about why you engage in certain self-care behaviors and what they do for you. What draws you to meditate or take walks? Why are these rituals special for you? By getting in touch with your inner motivations, you can better understand how self-care makes sense for your family.
4. Reduce Stress With Schedules
Working from home can mean long hours at a desk and, sometimes, distractions caused by your family. Establishing ground rules and creating a schedule that everyone understands can reduce stress in your family’s life and allow you to focus quietly on your work. Once you set boundaries for yourself, it’s easier for your kids to understand how they need to behave. Additionally, make it a point to have regular family outings and schedule daily fun for everyone.
5. Go Outside in Nature
One great way for your child to start practicing self-care is to encourage them to go outside. Start by taking a family walk together and exploring new places around Beverly Hills, California, and soon your child is likely to want to explore new places. Encourage them in their exploration by giving them time and space. Spending time outdoors lowers levels of stress and anxiety.
6. Practice Yoga and Meditation Together
Practicing yoga and meditation together is an effective way for you and your kids to find time for yourselves — together. Plus, it’s an opportunity for you to role model healthy self-care practices by doing something together as a family. Meditation can also help alleviate feelings of stress or anxiety that may be impacting your mood or behavior.
Happier, Healthier Adults
Practicing self-care is essential for kids. It helps them be mindful of their needs and feelings — which leads to happier, healthier adults.