September is National Self-care Month!
As caregivers of children, families, and educators, always hear how important it is to take care of themes less and take time. However, in practice, that can be hard to accomplish. Lack of transportation, lack of funds, and a society that values busyness over centeredness make it hard for those who most need to take time for themselves. As the pandemic continues, we at our McNeilly Center for Children are invested in supporting our families and educators' mental well-being. Check out some of these tips below to help you carve out a few minutes for yourselves!
1. LISTEN TO MUSIC
One of the best ways to energize yourself is to turn on your favorite song. We all know. There is no need to set aside time to find some joyful music moments. Play your favorites when you are working, cooking, and anything else. Even better? Find some tunes that you can listen to together. A new soundtrack that is out is the Lin-Manuel Miranda "Vivo" one! It has something for the whole family and an all-star multicultural cast.
2. DO A DIGITAL DETOX How often do we rely on screens in our modern daily lives? When we do not allow our minds time to rest, we cannot create the silence we need to really be with ourselves.
A digital detox might help you reset some of your habits, and it could also be good for your kids.
Methods for Digital Detox
Unplug your device for an hour every night
Set aside one weekend a month to step away from your smartphone
Make a rule to keep your phone out of your bedroom
3. PLAN FOR THE FUTURE
Whether you care for children professionally or as an in-home caregiver, the day-to-day care of children can be tiring at times. Writing down your dreams and plans for the future (for yourself and the children) can help you remember the bigger picture of your life and find more joy in the present.
4. CALM YOUR SENSES
Did you know adults experience sensory overload just like children? Florence lights, loud offices/homes, and more can lead to overwhelm. Spend a few minutes with dim lights, breathing in cool air, or smelling scents that calm you. Set a timer for a few moments each day to take a few sensory reset moments and see the difference!
5. PRACTICE GRATITUDE
When was the last time you wrote down the things in your life you were grateful for? Too often, it is easy to focus on the bills and stress of life. Write down things that make you happy, like the smile of the children you care for, your health, and more.