What is last on your to do list? Chances are, like most single mothers, it’s anything you want to do for yourself. As mothers we always put our wants and needs last, when you are married your husband will often come to your rescue and give you the time you need for you, at least occasionally.
When you are a single mother mommy maintenance is always at the bottom of the list. I’m not talking about the big things like doctor visits and the like, as mothers we are usually pretty good at taking care of the health of the person who takes care of the family.
I’m talking about the little things. Like shaving your legs, it’s easy to give up shaving your legs for the winter, after all, whats the point? It’s not like anyone sees them anyway. There is also hair maintenance, nail maintenance and exercise.
These items are usually pushed to the bottom of the list, after all there are only so many hours in the day. I’m here to tell you these things are vitally important! Anything that makes you feel good about yourself is important. Especially when you spend most of your time with children. Your kids love you but it’s more in a what you can do for them way than because of who you are. It’s important to do little things that make you feel pretty, strong and important!
You just have to get creative. Usually the first thing we give up is exercise and that is the last thing we should give up. Just thirty minutes of walking a day will help keep your body healthy and toned and give you energy for the rest of the day. I know it’s hard to exercise with kids so work around them. If you have small children who like being in a stroller, go for a walk before bedtime. Most local rec centers that have tracks encourage mothers to bring their stroller so even if the weather is bad you can walk.
This is a great way to get some exercise and close out the day. When Hailey was little a walk in the stroller would put her to sleep so I would give her a bath, put her in her pajamas and load her into the stroller. You can use an audio device to play soothing music or even a book on tape. If your little one falls asleep, half the nighttime battle is done and you can walk as long as you like.
Find creative ways to do things for yourself, you will be a better mom for it.