Prioritizing your health is the greatest gift you can give your children

We all want healthy, robust kids. But when does the health of the mother begin to matter? Right now. That’s the answer. The best time to prioritise your wellness was yesterday. The second best time is today. You matter. Your health matters.

The Challenge of Prioritizing Yourself as a Mom

I know, it is already daunting to think that you have to take care of your kids (and the million things that entails), sustain your career, and keep the home from falling to pieces. And now I am telling you to get some exercise, eat healthy, sleep, remove toxic items from your home, and get out into nature? Most days that is going to just go in the “too hard to handle basket.” Pretty quickly, our health can be way down on the priority list. I know this all too well. I am not here to say you can do it all. You cannot do it all and take care of yourself properly.

Small Steps Can Support Postpartum Recovery

But (yes, there is a but), you can support your postpartum recovery and reduce mom burnout by putting yourself first, getting the right support, and taking small, doable steps. And by doing so, you can handle so much more of what life throws at you.

Imagine the Most Vibrant Version of You

Just imagine yourself as the most vibrant you for a second. How is she showing up for her little ones? She is likely playful, kind, engaged, and loving, along with a host of other qualities. Are you able to show up this way for your kids when you are unhealthy, exhausted, or stressed? I certainly can’t.

I want my kids to get the best of me, and I know that prioritizing myself and doing the best for my health makes this so much easier. You simply cannot give to others when you have nothing left.

Kids Learn by Watching

And remember, our kids are always watching us. They are learning how to treat themselves and what is “normal” through what we do. Parenting is actually more manageable if we respect, prioritise, and take good care of ourselves. Through our own self-care, it teaches our little ones to do the same. Let's create a new generation who are happier and healthier while working on our own health too. Pretty good, right?

Begin With Small, Actionable Decisions

This change begins with small, actionable steps in our decision-making. For guidance on practical ways to support your postpartum health, you might find insights in The Motherhood Reset helpful. Subtle habits, like those shared in my discussions on the forgotten art of play or micro-shifts for vibrant living, can quietly transform your daily routines and energy levels.

Intentional Self-Care for Thriving Motherhood

Supporting your own health and wellbeing doesn’t need to be overwhelming. It can be intentional, simple, and highly effective. And for extra inspiration, my podcast Wild and Well explores these principles for mothers navigating postnatal depletion and everyday stress.

Start today. Prioritize yourself in small, meaningful ways, and watch the ripple effect it has on your children and family.

For further guidance and nourishing strategies, explore Nourished Mama and Mama Let It Go.