Moms are heroes

Mom of three here. The ups and downs, good and bad, regrets and victories are all part of this gig. And so although I've only been a mother for almost 7 years, I think I've learned a few things...and continue to learn these same things over and over again when it comes to taking care of myself.

1. Sleep is essential. Without sleep your whole body is at a huge disadvantage going into your day. Less mental and emotional stability, an impaired immune system, difficulty concentrating and impaired decision making. 
2. Find your stress management. Whatever is your healthy stress management method- make it a priority.
3. Find your community. Being a mom can feel very alone so having support is really important. Friends, family, online group...whatever makes you feel less alone, more supported and understood.
4. Nutrition is not an afterthought. How you feed your body is important for your mental and physical health as well as the health of your entire family. It's easy as a mom to just eat that toddler food because you don't have the energy to make something for yourself, forget to eat because you're too busy or stress eat after all the kids are in bed. Make fruits and vegetables a priority and it'll help in more ways that you realize.
5. Learn to forgive. Forgive yourself, your kids, your partner. Life is a whole lot better if you learn to forgive.  And life is too short to hold a grudge. 

Alright, that's about all the expertise I've got so far.  Take care of yourself so can take care of the little ones in your life that need you to be their mom. 

---