Being a parent is the hardest job in the world and many of our patients are some of the greatest parents and mothers, but no mother is safe from Mom-guilt. Mom-guilt is that feeling mothers get when they feel they could do more, could be better, or feel selfish for wanting to enjoy their own life. In our society, mothers are damned if they do and damned if they don't. We put pressure on them to be perfect parents AND providers, and it is unrealistic to constantly give without taking the time to fill up your own tank. That's why we wanted to share some tips to help with mental, emotional, and physical burnout. These are a necessity and self-care is never something to feel guilty about. So say goodbye to mom-guilt and HELLO to mom-love!

We all need downtime to recoup our energy and avoid burnout. This should be a designated and regular time that you set aside with the help of your family to do something that fuels you. Not just something you do once you are already burnt out! Whether it's painting, going to the gym, having time with girlfriends, or going to the movies! It helps to make this a non-negotiable on your family schedule to make sure mom is getting the TLC she needs to be... well to be mom!

Mindset is everything! Even working through those feelings of guilt in a journal, with a therapist, with friends, or with a partner, can help ease the anxieties that all parents have. The best example is the airplane example:
As a parent, you have to put on your own mask first. This is how we show our children that self-care is not a waste of time and that we all deserve guilt-free breaks from our responsibilities.

One of the best ways to achieve these regular self-care sessions is by making appointments! That way they are prioritized and on the calendar. Here at Arancia PT, we get that our patients have busy schedules. That's why we try to help set up appointments in advance to make sure your year of care is on the books and good to go! Mental and physical health should be a priority and we know it's not always easy to start.

Breathe Mama, and don't stress if you feel overwhelmed with wondering where to start. It's not easy but it's necessary to take time for you and your health to be the best you can be. We are here for you and we want to encourage you to be the same advocate for yourself that you are for your kid(s)!