Being told to make space for self care when things are difficult can feel shallow & it can highlight just how little people understand the world of parenting trauma and SEND (and perhaps how little people understand parenting more generally).
The reality of our lives can be so different to the way others think things are for us. It can even feel like blame - “Don’t expect things to be better if you don’t make room for self-care.”
I get it. But self care really is important. Everything hinges on it.
It can look like:
Getting up and getting dressed.
Taking some deeps breaths & showing yourself some compassion.
Reflecting on the things you’re doing well - in spite of how hard it is.
Creating a new playlist & listening to music
Reading a book or listening to an audiobook.
Taking care of unmet physical needs. Drinking water. Going for a walk. Eating good food. Taking vitamins.
Finding a listening ear & processing some emotions that need processing - or ‘just’ venting.
Getting a notebook a making a list of all the things you need to do - like making that GP appointment - free dopamine hit when you cross a couple of them off.
Doing something fun with the kids, with others, on your own.
I hope you can manage to take care of yourself this week - whatever that might look like for you.
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