Two simple self-care practices for parents

Why Self-Care Matters for Parents

As parents, we often place the needs of our children before our own—leaving little time for ourselves. But regular self-care for parents is not a luxury; it’s essential for mental wellbeing, emotional balance, and even physical health.

Practising self-care not only helps us feel more energised and grounded, but it also allows us to show up as more present, patient, and compassionate parents.

The challenge? Parenting is busy. Free time is rare. So, to make self-care a reality, it needs to be simple, intentional, and achievable.

Here are two small but powerful actions you can take today to care for yourself—no spa days or week-long breaks required.

1. Define and Prioritise Your Self-Care Goals

Ask yourself: What makes me feel good? What relaxes or recharges me?

It could be:
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• A short daily walk or stretch
• Reading a few pages of a book
• Cooking something nourishing
• Listening to music or a podcast
• Catching up with a friend

Write down 3–5 ideas and pick the top two. These are your non-negotiables. Keep your list visible—on your phone, fridge, or calendar—to remind yourself that your wellbeing matters.
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💡 Parenting self-care tip: Keep your activities realistic and pressure-free. You’re aiming for calm and joy, not perfection or performance.
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2. Use Daily Positive Affirmations for a Kinder Mindset

A powerful yet simple self-care ritual is practising positive affirmations. These are short, uplifting statements that help retrain your brain to focus on your strengths instead of your flaws.

Take five quiet minutes each day and try this:
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• Look in the mirror and name one thing you like about your appearance.
• Close your eyes and think of an inner quality you’re proud of.
• Say aloud:
  “I am a caring parent.”
  “I am enough as I am.”
  “I deserve rest and kindness.”

At first, these might feel awkward. But after a few days, they’ll start to shape a more compassionate and confident inner dialogue.
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Writing them down or placing them somewhere visible can strengthen the practice and help improve your self-image as a parent.
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How to Make Self-Care Work in Real Life

To make these practices stick:
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• Schedule them like appointments. Block out time in your calendar.
• Start small and stay consistent. Even 5–10 minutes a day can make a real difference.
• Don’t skip them. Your mental health is just as important as your to-do list.

When you take time to care for yourself, you become more emotionally resilient—and that’s one of the best gifts you can give your children.

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