National Parent's Day 2024: Finding Harmony Between Parenthood And Self-Care

Parenting is both a rich and fulfilling experience as well as a challenging and exhausting one. It often demands prioritizing the family’s well-being over one’s own. However, meeting your own mental and physical needs is crucial, not just for your well-being, but also for your children’s. Just as flight attendants advise putting on your own oxygen mask before assisting children, parents must take care of themselves to effectively care for their kids. Balancing parenthood and self-care is vital for both the parent’s well-being and the child’s healthy development.

Prioritizing self-care offers numerous psychological benefits for parents. It enhances emotional resilience, making it easier to cope with parenting's ups and downs. It promotes a positive self-image and self-worth, leading to more confident and effective parenting. Children benefit from parents who are emotionally balanced and present, as it creates a nurturing and stable environment.

Here are strategies to maintain this balance and the psychological benefits of doing so as shared by  Dr. Mona Gujral, Chief Psychologist at Coto:

Prioritize Time Management- Efficient time management is key. Create a daily or weekly schedule that includes dedicated time for yourself. This could be as simple as setting aside 15 minutes in the morning for meditation or a quick workout.

Set Realistic Expectations- Parenting perfection is a myth. Setting realistic expectations about what can be achieved in a day helps reduce stress and feelings of inadequacy. It’s important to recognize that it's okay to have moments of imperfection and to forgive yourself for not being able to do it all.

Delegate and Share Responsibilities- Sharing parenting responsibilities with a partner, family member, or friend can alleviate pressure. Delegating tasks such as household chores, cooking, or child care allows for some free time to recharge.

Engage in Physical Activity- Regular physical activity is beneficial for mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, which improve mood and reduce stress. Integrate physical activity into your routine by taking walks with your children, practicing yoga, or engaging in home workout sessions.

Pursue Personal Interests- Engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy and fulfillment is crucial for self-care. Whether it’s reading, painting, gardening, or any other passion, taking time for personal interests helps maintain your identity beyond the parenting role.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation, help manage stress and stay present. These practices promote emotional regulation and a sense of calm amidst parenting chaos.