Ivana Poku An insanely simple self-care tip for busy mums
Being a mum is the most transformative experience in a woman’s life.
It’s filled with moments of great joy and pride, but it is also overwhelming and exhausting – especially in the early stages.
If you’re feeling lost in the midst of nappies, night feeds, and never-ending to-do lists, you’re not alone.
Many new mums struggle to find the time for themselves and yearn to reconnect with who they were before having children.
Now, what if I told you that there is one simple thing you can do for yourself EVERY DAY even as a busy mum – without spending thousands on therapy or meditating thrity minutes a day.
The Power of Five Minutes
Here’s the secret: dedicating just five minutes a day to yourself can make ll the difference.
Yes, only five minutes.
It might sound too simple, but those five minutes can change everything.
Why Five Minutes?
Five minutes is manageable for everyone.
It’s short enough to fit into even the busiest of schedules but long enough to make a big impact.
By carving out five minutes a day for yourself, you can:
The list is limitles..
And if you stick to it and do it every day, in a few month’s time, you will feel enitrely different than you do now.
Here’s another secret: if you decide to continue the chose activity after five minutes, that’s absolutely fine. This approach makes it more likely for you to begin because what often prevents us from starting any new activity is the sense of overwhelm that comes with it. (When you commit to exercising for an hour twice a week, you’re less likely to follow through than when you set aside just five minutes a day.)
However, evene if you stop after five minutes, the impact will still be massive.
Isn’t it amazing?
How to Make the Most of Your Five Minutes
The key to making this habit effective is choosing activities that you ENJOY.
Here are some out-of-the-box ideas to get you started:
1. Sensory Delight
Engage your senses in a focused, intentional way. Sit down and focus on everything you can see around you. Then on what you can smell, what you can hear and what you can touch.
2. Micro-Adventures
Step outside for a little adventure! It could be as simple as walking barefoot on your lawn, sitting under a tree, or lying on a blanket and gazing up at the sky. Just a short change of scenery can give you a refreshing perspective and a nice break from your routine.
3. Gratitude Mapping
Why not switch things up and create a “gratitude map” instead of traditional journaling? Just draw or write things you’re thankful for in a scattered, non-linear way. Use words, doodles, or symbols—whatever feels right. Mapping out your gratitude can be a fun and creative way to boost your mood and spark your creativity.
4. Voice Memos
Record a voice memo where you talk about your day, your feelings, or anything else you like. Speaking your thoughts aloud is surprisingly therapeutic and helps you process your emotions, so they no longer overwhelm you.
5. Creative Visualisation
Spend ten minutes imagining your ideal day, perfect life, your dream home, or a place you wish to visit. Visualise every detail vividly in your mind. This can be incredibly relaxing and can help shift your focus away from daily stresses.
6. Mini-Workshops
Try teaching yourself a new skill in five-minute bursts! You could learn a few words in a new language, practice a simple tune on a musical instrument, or follow a quick tutorial for a craft project. Breaking down learning into small, manageable chunks can be really fulfilling and fun.
7. Personal Retreat
Create a mini-retreat in your home. Light a candle, play calming music (or loud music), and sit in a comfortable spot.
8. Affirmation Art
Write down positive affirmations, then spend five minutes decorating them with colors, stickers, or drawings. This combines the benefits of positive self-talk with the therapeutic effects of art.
9. Be
This sounds easy, yet it’s one of the hardest (but most powerful) things to do. Sit down and allow yourself to just be. Observe your thoughts, but don’t engage with them—simply let them pass like clouds in the sky. This simple practice will calm your mind and nervous system with ease and at light speed. Don’t overthink it, just do it. You can’t do this wrong.
10. Memory Lane
Spend five minutes looking through old photos or mementos. Relive happy memories, and remind yourself of your journey and the person you were before becoming a mum. This can help bridge the gap between your past and present self.
11. Digital Detox
Turn off all screens and devices for five minutes. Sit quietly, allowing yourself to decompress from digital overload. This can help you feel more grounded and present in your immediate surroundings.
Making It Happen
Finding five minutes a day might still feel challenging, but with a determination and flexibility, it’s entirely possible.
Here are some tips to help you incorporate this habit into your daily routine:
1. Schedule It
Treat your five minutes like an important appointment. Set a reminder on your phone or write it in your diary. Choose a time when your child is napping or content, or ask your partner or a family member to watch the baby for a few minutes.
2. Be Flexible
If your planned time doesn’t work out, don’t stress. Be flexible and find another moment in the day. The key is consistency, not perfection.
3. Communicate Your Needs
Let your partner or support system know how important this time is for you. Ask for their help in making sure you get those five minutes each day.
4. Start Small
If five minutes feels too long at first, start with two. The important thing is to start. Over time, you can gradually increase the duration.
5. Let Go of Guilt
Remember that taking time for yourself isn’t selfish – or it is selfish in a positive way. When you feel more balanced and connected to yourself, you’re better able to care for your baby and family.
The Benefits
Incorporating this five-minute habit into your daily routine can bring numerous benefits:
1. Improved Mental Health
Regularly taking time for yourself can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, helping you feel more calm and centered.
2. Enhanced Self-Awareness
Spending time alone with your thoughts can help you reconnect with your identity outside of motherhood. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of your needs, desires, and emotions.
3. Increased Energy and Focus
Taking a short break can recharge your energy levels and improve your focus, making you more efficient and effective in your daily tasks.
4. Greater Enjoyment of Motherhood
When you feel more like yourself, you’re able to enjoy the precious moments of motherhood more fully. You’ll have more patience, joy, and appreciation for the journey.
Simple self care tip for busy mums
Feeling like yourself again as a new mum doesn’t require drastic measures or extensive time commitments.
By dedicating just five minutes a day to an activity that brings you joy and peace, you can reconnect with yourself and find balance amidst the demands of motherhood.
So, start today.
Take those five minutes for yourself.
You deserve it, and it will make all the difference.
Remember, a happier and more fulfilled you means a happier and more harmonious family.
You’ve got this, mama!
If you have any questions, drop me a message in Instagram.
Always happy to help. 🙂
With love,
Ivana xx
