Take a breather
Brevard psychologist Vicki Panaccione says it’s critical mothers take care of themselves, as well as the others around them.
“First and foremost, it sends a clear message that you are important,” Panaccione says. “That you are not simply someone who takes care of others, but someone who also takes care of herself.”
In addition, mothers who take care of themselves are teaching their children a valuable lesson.
“This sets the example for your children to eat well, exercise, get enough rest and take care of their appearance,” she says. “This is the model that your children will learn from.”
And finally, mothers who take care of themselves have an opportunity to refuel.
“Running on empty leads to impatience, sickness and total depletion,” Panaccione says. “The more you take care of yourself, the more energy, patience and joy you will have available to take care of your children and enjoy being a parent.”
Panaccione lists these things moms can do on Mother’s Day:
- Treat yourself well. Get a manicure, pedicure, facial or massage.
- Sign up for some activity of interest, like a class you’ve been wanting to take: exercise, yoga, watercolors, pottery.
- Make a date to meet a friend for lunch — once a week.
- Buy something extravagant. No, not a new washer or dryer, but a piece of jewelry or an evening gown.
- Make a promise to stop at the end of each day and think of what you did right, and what you enjoy about being a parent. Because, after all, that’s what it’s all about.
As published in Florida Today.
© MMVI Vicki Panaccione, Ph.D.
