“Put your own oxygen mask on FIRST” is such a part of our culture it’s practically a sit-com joke. But there’s wisdom in it—especially for moms and most especially for new moms. You can’t be the best mom for your kids if you don’t take good care of yourself first.
But moms, especially new moms, find that so very difficult to do. That’s why I created this simple, actionable, memorable list of top self-care tips. Print this and post it where you see it often. If you do these 10 simple things, you’ll be a long way toward taking good care of you!
- Use all 10 digits to do a self-breast exam each month.
- Aim to eat 9 servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
- Drink 8 8-ounces glass of water (or unsweetened tea) each day.
- Try this easy way to slim down: Stop eating carbs each night after 7
- Do your best to get between 6 and 8 hours of sleep each night.
- Do a 5-point safety check: Make a fire escape plan, test smoke detector batteries, install carbon monoxide detectors, lower water temp to 120 degrees, and practice monthly fire drills.
- Stress less by doing some deep breathing: Breathe in slowly for the count of 4, then let it out.
- Move your body 3 times a day for just 10 minutes each time. Walk, clean, do jumping jacks, whatever you like.
- Use 2 arms and give a great hug to someone you love as often as you can.
- At least 1 time a day, remind yourself that you are loved. Because you are!
About the author: Rallie McAllister, MD, MPH, is a mom of three sons, family practice physician, and coauthor of The Mommy MD Guide to Pregnancy and Birth, in Lexington, KY. Dr. McAllister is a paid consultant to CBR.