Self-Care Practices for Parents During Covid-19
Posted: March 15, 2021
Covid-19 has brought unforeseen disruption to daily living. Nobody expected lockdowns, quarantines, and social restrictions the norm of life at the end of 2019. Now that things are opening up, it is time to get back to the previous routine with new guidelines. Juggling your kids’ schedule with the new normal can be nerve-wracking.
After all, it is your responsibility to take care of your children. Right now, this duty may be coming at the expense of yourself. The good news is you do not have to neglect yourself as you protect, provide and guide your family through the pandemic. You can take care of yourself as well. Self-care is a deliberate resolve to is look after yourself.
Find some time alone.
Set a time for yourself and do what you love. You could read a book, meditate, or exercise. Such activities release feel-good hormones that induce happiness, raise your confidence, and keep your anxiety at bay.
Keep away from negative news.
There is a lot of alarming news going around on social networks and news stations. Do not indulge in the negativity. It only manifests as worry and exacerbates your fears. Focus on what is needful. The best you can do is follow the Covid-19 measures to keep your family safe. Drown out the noise because it is unnecessary.
Congratulate yourself.
Do not be too critical of yourself. You are doing the best you can with the available resources - pat yourself on the back. When the burden becomes too heavy, you are allowed to acknowledge that it is challenging. It is only by embracing your situation that you can find the strength to fight through another day.
Take one day at a time.
Nobody knows what tomorrow holds - this is okay. What you have is today. Therefore, let live. Do not let tomorrow’s uncertainties rob you of today’s joy. Enjoy the moment - savor the times spent with your kids, your spouse, and loved ones.
Reach out to friends and loved ones.
The beauty of technology is that it keeps us connected even with physical restrictions. If you cannot deal with your current situation, get in touch with your friends and loved ones. They may give you a tip or two to get by. They may provide the shoulder you need. You do not have to go through this alone.
If you need professional help, get in touch with a counseling psychologist. At the end of the day, you cannot take care of your family if you are not taking care of yourself.