Sometimes as mothers, wives or even me as a homeschool mom we get so caught up in the needs of others that we tend to neglect ourselves to some degree. As natural caretakers we make sure that everyone's needs are met before our own.
Are my children sick, does my husband have a clean work uniform, did I bake the cookies for church, did I pack snack for the basketball team this week, and so on...
Forgetting the most important thing. If we neglect ourselves, over time we can't be the amazing care takers we once were. We will slowly run out of gas.
So here are just a few reminders of what we already know, but somehow seem to forget sometimes.....
Jesus-
In my opinion this is the most important! When we bring God into our lives, we bring the opportunity to have someone in our corner. To share our burdens, our stresses, our joys and our triumphs. Whether it be talking to him in your car on the way to work, or listening to Christian music while your kids are doing class work like we do, There are so many ways to bring you into a deeper relationship with God.
As you begin to deepen your relationship, you slowly begin to realize that you can put life in God's hands.
I once read this little passage on facebook that said...
"Not once in the bible does it say to stress on it, Worry about it or make it happen. But over and over again it clearly says "Trust God"
Water-
Hydration is important, that can probably go without saying. But did you know that being dehydrated can actually change your mood. A healthier you clearly needs water for proper kidney function, healthy skin and even to help lubricate your joints.. but did you know that it can also help with irritability, blood pressure, maintaining the right body tempature, water even helps with weightloss.
It's easy for me to get so caught up in the day and not hydrate properly. Maybe grab a soda or my 5th cup of coffee (my goodness I really do have a coffee problem lol) However lately I have been carrying around a Nalgene bottle of water with me every where I go. As a contant reminder to hydrate!
Movement-
I feel as though i'm constantly on the go. Doing dishes, vacuuming, running errands, playing with the kids. But how much of that movement is intentional? Remember to take the time to exercise. Go on a brisk walk, do some yoga, go for a bike ride.. Whatever you can to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. I know first hand how difficult it is to find motivation when you're already tired from your go, go, go day. But did you know you actually feel more energized after a workout? Try it!
Sleep-
Here I am preaching sleep, when I myself never get enough. However, we need to try. 8 hours of sleep and rest is ideal for our bodies to regain strength and much needed energy to face what tomorrow has in store for us. But did you know that lack of sleep actually is connected to greater risk of heart disease, stroke, weight gain and depression?
I know how hard it is to sleep when your brain is running a mile a minute with..did I forget to do that? Or make sure to buy milk tomorrow. Type thoughts as you're desperately trying to fall asleep. But remember 7-8 hours is ideal. If it helps, try to go to bed earlier. So that hamster on its wheel in your head can do its job and you can still get the rest you need.
Reflection-
Take time for you. Time to calm yourself. The stress and worries that we carry with us through out the day sometimes can get the best of us. But remember, a hot bath with candles, a calm walk with your dog, getting curled up with a good book, are all good ways to decompress after a long day.
During this time of self reflection and thinking about our day. We can, learn from our mistakes, brainstorm new ideas, be more productive,think of ways to help others, reflect back on how many times we were happy today, what made me unhappy today and how can I change that tomorrow? You can slowly relax your mind, especially when reflection is practiced daily.
So remember, take time for yourself and be intentional. You are just as important as anything else your day may bring.

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