For those of you who don’t know, motherhood can be hard. Doesn’t matter if you’re a single mom, working mom, or stay-at-home mom. Taking care of a little on comes with many responsibilities, challenges, and stress. As we know, stress can lead to anxiety, worry, and so many other mental health concerns. Being able to take breaks for ourselves can provide the temporary relief we need. Why is it then, that moms in particularly experience guilt within and even from others? Moms don’t need to feel guilty for taking a break!
For a very long time, I did not feel I deserved a break. I unknowingly was punishing myself because I felt guilty that I hadn’t taken care of my daughter for 35 weeks despite not knowing I was pregnant. So for a really long time I didn’t and I found myself suffering. Headaches, overeating, lack of sleep, irritability, minimized focus, and even body aches plagued me. I simply ignored the signs and soldiered on.
“Self-care is not selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.”
Eleanor Brownn
I cannot be the best for my daughter when I am not at my best. Ignoring my need for a break does not benefit my child. The same goes for you too momma. Self-care is important. You deserve a break as much as anyone else. Don’t guilt yourself out of taking a break. Don’t let anyone else guilt you out of a break either. Being a mother does not mean you have to sacrifice your own well-being. There are so many benefits of taking a break and zero for allowing guilt to stop you from doing so. Taking care of yourself does not make you any less of a mother. Having a child does not mean you are not allowed time away from them.
Moms don’t need to feel guilty.
You are important and are deserving of care. You deserve time for yourself. Take your break guilt free.