Self-Care During Uncertain Times
2020 has been a difficult year for so many reasons – a global pandemic and economic displacement, raging wildfires, heightened racial tensions and a relentless stream of race-based killings, and now a prolonged election process with potential for more unrest. All these processes tend to disproportionately affect mothers, particularly those from disadvantaged communities. When we are constantly in crisis mode, it can be hard to figure out how to get through the day, much less think about how to care for ourselves. Here are some tips I have found helpful over the past months for self-care during uncertain times.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. I received complimentary products from Blue Nectar Ayurveda for review purposes; however, all opinions are my own.
Self-Care During Uncertain Times
Check in with your network.
Check in with your loved ones and ask them to check on you. This can be a simple phone call or text, just to check in and let them know that you’re thinking of them. This is especially important this year, as we are all so physically isolated from each other during COVID. Create a chat group with your family or group of friends to make this even easier.
Have a plan.
This can be a tricky one because sometimes thinking about the worst case scenario can send you down a rabbit hole of worrying about what might happen, but it may also give you peace of mind to have a plan in place to keep yourself and your family safe. For example, here is a guide to getting ready for wildfire evacuations, while here is a plan for post-election safety for communities of color.
Unplug.
We all know the benefits of disconnecting from the news and social media periodically. But during a time of crisis, we may hesitate because we are worried that we will miss critical news, such as the progress of a wildfire, unrest in our area, or election results. Try setting up a Google alert to notify you whenever there is news related to a story that you’re watching, rather than you having to comb the news feed. You may also be able to download an app that will alert you when, for example, there is an evacuation order in your area. Or you may have an agreement with a friend that you will take turns unplugging, so that one person keeps an eye on the news and lets the other know anything urgent.
Close the extra tabs.
Literally and metaphorically, women tend to operate with an excessive amount of tabs open – whether on their laptops or in their brains. Try to be in the moment as much as possible. Having a plan in place (see above) can help, so you can focus on concrete action and less on speculation and worry.
Try journaling, meditation, or even just a mindful walk in nature. Some people have gotten turned off from tools like yoga because they tend to be dominated by white teachers and can even be hostile towards POC, despite its potential for healing in traumatized communities. Learn more about the Black yoga instructors who are changing this toxic environment, or listen to this meditation designed specifically for Blacks.
Laugh.
Watch a funny movie. Tell some jokes with your kids. Play a board game as a family. Read cartoons. (Remember The Far Side? It’s now available online!) Getting your mind off of current events can really help you recharge and build emotional resilience.
Take Time for Joy.
Every day, do a little something that brings you joy. Whether it’s savoring your morning coffee or relaxing with a good book, those moments of joy are important for your mental well-being. Don’t skimp just because you don’t have much time. Sure, we all wish we could have a full spa day, but even a few minutes of “Mom time” can make a big difference!
Take care of your physical health.
Yes, I’m talking about all of those things that we know we should do but often don’t. Now is the time to make sure we are ticking all of those boxes: drink plenty of water, take your vitamins & medications, get some exercise, reconnect with nature, get a good night’s sleep.
I’ve recently started taking WEEM Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies
It’s also important to get a good night’s sleep, but that is something I’ve often struggled with. Here are some tips for when you can’t seem to fall asleep.
One tool I have discovered recently is to take time for myself every evening with my skin care routine. Not only can I feel good that I’m taking care of myself, but having an evening ritual has been shown to help you prepare mentally for a good night’s sleep.
Personally I am loving everything I’ve tried from the Blue Nectar line of Ayurvedic products. The Blue Nectar Kumkumadi Ayurvedic Radiance Glow Face Serum feels so luxurious on my skin, and the scent is so refreshing. Best of all, it’s all natural, with 26 herbs, like saffron, turmeric, and almond oil.
And now I’ve started using Blue Nectar Ayurvedic Anti Aging Face Cream Moisturer, which is designed for firm, radiant skin. This blend of 14 herbs (including aloe) helps keep skin healthy and hydrated. I love the feel of the cream and how soft my skin feels now. All of Blue Nectar’s products are based on the principles of Ayurveda, supporting the body’s own abilities to rejuvenate itself and fight off signs of ageing.
You also don’t want to miss their Shea Butter Warm Vanilla and Sugar Body lotion Cream with Vitamin E for ultra hydration
I feel like I’m giving myself a mini-spa each night, which is a wonderful way to ease into sleep!
More Self-Care for Moms:
Asian-Inspired Self-Care for Moms
10 Ways for Moms to Practice Yoga
Learning to Take Time for Yourself
Mama Self-Care on Pinterest
How to Cope When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed from Mama Smiles
Recovering from a Mommy Meltdown by Fireflies and Mud Pies
25 Easy Self-Care Ideas from Picklebums
Put Yourself on the List from Picklebums
What are your best tips for self-care during uncertain times?
