As mothers, we often feel overwhelmed by our multifaceted roles. We forget that we, too, have lives beyond motherhood. We get so caught up in daily chores that we diminish our existence as women. Don't we? We frequently see this as a waste of time or believe we should use it for household tasks instead! We sometimes overlook our basic needs in our race to please our loved ones. So, here are some quick tips to help us become the best versions of ourselves.

1. Exercise regularly

Engaging in daily exercise offers numerous potential health benefits, both physical and mental. Regular physical activity, particularly for women, helps with weight management, enhances cardiovascular health and bone density, and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. The mental and emotional rewards include lower stress and anxiety levels, improved self-esteem, better sleep quality, increased energy, and a brighter mood. Overall, exercise slows the aging process and enhances the quality of life. Additional benefits comprise improved concentration and memory, better digestion, heightened productivity, and greater creativity. Most importantly, regular exercise provides reproductive and menstrual advantages, such as a more regulated menstrual cycle (which can alleviate PMS symptoms), enhanced fertility, and relief from menopause symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Explore yoga, dance, Zumba, strength training, and weight lifting. Visit the gym or take a walk. Cycling and jogging are also great options. Being outdoors and connecting with nature offers fresh air, oxygen, and vitamin D. Joining an online class or group for exercise can provide opportunities for socialization and help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

2. Schedule ‘Alone’ time or ‘Me’ time

This is crucial. After sending our spouses to work and our kids to school, we often spend our time mindlessly scrolling on our phones or endlessly flipping television channels. Instead, we can use that time to nurture our mind, body, and soul. Engage in activities that you enjoy. Meditation and deep breathing calm your mind and soothe your soul. Indulge in some pampering with a bubble bath or a spa day. Get lost in a book or article while reading. You can also pursue your hobby more seriously. Some creative outlets include journaling (to reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and experiences), painting or drawing, writing poetry or short stories, and photography! Joining an online course or tutorial can also help you learn a new hobby or skill. Expand your knowledge and perspectives through TED Talks or podcasts. Challenge yourself with puzzles and Sudoku, or relax with a favorite game. You might also try a new recipe or experiment with flavors. Watch your favorite films, discover new ones, or let loose and enjoy your favorite tunes while dancing. Lastly, nurture your green thumb with gardening!

3. Drink plenty of water

Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water (64-80 ounces) daily, based on your needs, activity level, and climate. Staying well-hydrated is crucial for women’s health, as it keeps the body hydrated, enhances the condition of skin, hair, and nails, and supports digestive health and kidney function. Moreover, it helps alleviate menstrual cramps, promotes fetal health during pregnancy, and aids in breastfeeding. The mental and emotional benefits include reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, and cognitive function. Staying hydrated can also assist with weight loss and help eliminate toxins and waste from the body.

4. Treat yourself

Now and then, you can enjoy a ‘treat day’! Indulging in moderation with chocolates, sweets, candies, baked goods, and ice cream is a fantastic way to recharge and lift your spirits. It can also help satisfy cravings and prevent overindulgence, which reduces feelings of guilt.

5. Communicate with your partner

Effective communication with your husband is essential for building trust and intimacy and maintaining a healthy relationship. It fosters openness and honesty, creating emotional connections, intimacy, and closeness. Furthermore, open communication helps resolve conflicts and prevents misunderstandings. Together, you and your husband can navigate challenges through effective communication, fostering a deeper and more meaningful bond.

6. Ask for Help: it’s okay to take a break

Remember, dear women, taking daily or weekly breaks is not a luxury but a necessity. By prioritizing rest, you can reduce burnout and mental fatigue while lowering stress and anxiety. This way, you can approach your daily tasks and responsibilities with renewed energy, productivity, focus, and creativity. If you feel overwhelmed by household chores and find it challenging to manage your responsibilities, there is nothing wrong with hiring help or a maid. You can use that time to nurture yourself or care for your family!

7. Connect with friends

Friends bring joy and laughter. Make time for regular phone calls, video chats, or in-person meet-ups. Show gratitude, love, and affection by giving cards, letters, and gifts as tokens of appreciation for your friendship. Additionally, set aside time for shared activities – engage in hobbies, interests, or pursuits that foster joy and closeness. Who better makes you feel heard, understood, and validated than a friend?

8. Nourish your body

A balanced diet provides energy for daily activities, exercise, and mental functioning. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Stay hydrated throughout the day and limit your intake of processed and sugary foods. Additionally, seek personalized nutrition advice from a registered dietitian, nutritionist, or healthcare provider. Remember that nourishing your body is an investment in your overall physical and mental health and quality of life.

9. Sleep

Make sleep a priority; your body and mind will express gratitude! Why? Adult women require 6-9 hours of sleep to help regulate hormone function, support the immune system, maintain cardiovascular health, and manage weight. Sleep also regulates stress hormones and influences neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which affect mood. It's equally crucial for attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Sleep impacts the regularity of the menstrual cycle and alleviates menopausal symptoms. To achieve this, establish a bedtime routine, create an environment conducive to sleep, adhere to a sleep schedule, and avoid stimulants and screens before bedtime. A 15-minute afternoon nap is just as crucial for women. Often referred to as beauty sleep, afternoon naps are a necessity, not a luxury. Taking a short nap in the afternoon offers benefits similar to nighttime sleep. Moreover, this brief rest from 2 to 4 p.m. will help you feel rested, relaxed, and alert for the evening, allowing you to manage family and household chores with renewed vigor.

10. Prepare the night before

The night before sets the tone for a productive day the next day, saving time, reducing rush and chaos, and lessening morning anxiety. It also clears mental clarity, increases efficiency, helps prioritize tasks, and reduces procrastination. Preparing a day ahead for meetings, appointments, or deadlines, or simply planning your meals for the next day promotes organization and time management.

Happy Women's Day to all the beautiful women reading this blog! Today is all about celebrating the fantastic journey of every woman. May you be surrounded by love, care, happiness, and prosperity.

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