Being a mum is a full-time job, and a very tiring one at that! That's why it's extra important to take some time out of your busy schedule to indulge in some much-needed 'me time'. If you don't, you could be in danger of a burnout - a not-very-nice state of physical and emotional exhaustion. Eek! So, make sure you avoid the burnout in every aspect of your life by following our simple self-care tips below...
1. Unwind with a book
Escape the stresses of daily life and looking after the kids by getting swept away in your favourite book. When the kids are at school, having a cat nap or eating dinner, take yourself away for ten minutes of well-deserved reading time.
Reading before bed-time has been said to help reduce stress and make you fall asleep faster, so the evenings are also a brilliant time to read.
2. Look good to feel good!
Taking care of your appearance can help you to feel more confident and happy within yourself, because when you look good, you feel good, right? And there's no better place to start than with your hair.
Having a 'good hair day' will always make you look and feel your best, so make sure your mane always looks in top condition by protecting it from heat damage. Did you know that blow-drying your hair is one of the biggest damagers? Hair dryers work at a lower temperature than straighteners, but the damage from the heat of a hair dryer happens more in the long run. When you blow-dry wet hair, it's weaker and so more susceptible to breakage.
To avoid a hair burnout, remember to always use a heat protectant spray, like the TRESemmé Heat Defence Spray on your locks before you straighten, curl or blow-dry your hair.
3. Take a bath
Your body is a temple, so when the kids are asleep, run yourself a relaxing bath filled with muscle-soothing salts to treat any aches and pains. If you really want to unwind, then you can light some scented candles (mmm) and play some chilled out music in the background. Baths are also a great time to catch up on your favourite podcasts or audio books.
4. Learn to say no!
As a mum, you can often feel like you're pulled in a million different directions trying to please everyone in the family. You might even feel guilty about saying no to certain requests from family members, children or friends. But you shouldn't! It's okay to say no sometimes, and to not take on extra work on your plate. Remember to look after yourself as much as you look after others around you, or you could be in danger of burning out.
5. Check in with a loved one
Just as it's important to know when to say no to unwanted plans or burdening yourself with other people's problems, sometimes you just need a big catch-up session with an old friend or loved one. Take some time out of your day for a coffee with your bff, ring your mum or meet up with someone you haven't spoken to in a while and have good ol' natter. Talking through any changes in your life, swapping stories about the kids or just having a good vent can any can be a great way of releasing any pent up frustrations and reconnecting with the important people in your life.
6. Start a journal
Take a moment to pause by writing in a journal every night. Writing is very reflective and people say it's often like therapy. It can really help you to control any emotions you may be feeling and therefore help you pre-empt a burnout. You can either write down how you're feeling, or you can take a few minutes to note every thing that has made you feel happy or grateful that day.
7. Indulge with a takeaway
Always busy cooking meals for the kids? Hardly ever eat what YOU want to eat? Then it's time you treat yourself to a little guilty pleasure and order your favourite takeaway! Once the kids are asleep, order your favourite meal, sit back and whack on a feel-good film. Welcome to the perfect night in.
Hair is an important part of your identity, so make sure you look after it and avoid the burnout by keeping it protected with the TRESemmé Heat Defence Spray. For more information about hair and the right heat protect for you, visit All Things Hair.