SELF-CARE TIPS FOR MOMS AND CARETAKERS

Carving out some “me time” is not just good for your mental health, physical wellness and confidence, as many moms know, it can actually make you a better parent. According to a survey of moms conducted by Hutchinson and Cassidy, those who had higher selfesteem had higher levels of perceived parenting confidence.

Here are three ways to practice self-care:

1. Get some rest: We live in a goal-oriented society where the value of rest and relaxation is not always emphasized. Whether it’s a spa day with your best friend or curling up with a good book at home, be sure your schedule includes adequate time to recharge your batteries.

2. Take care of your smile: One of the best ways to foster self-confidence is with a clean, healthy smile. In fact, a 2020 Cigna Dental Report found that smile satisfaction is one of the top three drivers of self confidence among U.S. adults. Give yourself the gift of innovative brushing technology. The iO Series

5 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush from Oral-B, for example, allows you to personalize your brushing experience with its five smart modes: daily clean, intense, whitening, sensitive and super sensitive. No ordinary toothbrush, this one is designed to help you brush smarter and more safely. To help protect gums, a smart pressure sensor displays a red light when you’re brushing too hard and a green light when you’re brushing just right, and its dentistinspired round brush head cleans with micro-vibrations and oscillating action.

Plus, a connected app tracks brushing behavior to ensure you’re targeting all six zones of your mouth, and a vibrating timer lets you know when you’ve brushed for the dentist-recommended 2 minutes.

3. Take care of your mind: So much of motherhood is ensuring everyone has what they need, and often, your own needs can fall by the wayside. There are many ways to take time to check in with yourself though. You could buy yourself a beautiful journal and jot thoughts down for a few minutes each evening or check out apps like Headspace, which can help get you started on a meditation practice. Even a 10 or 15 minute walk at lunchtime can be a powerful mood-booster and an opportunity to reflect. You might also consider taking up a hobby that offers the chance for self-expression, such as painting, poetry, music or crafting.

When it comes to parents and caretakers, the importance of self-care can’t be overstated. Kick-off new routines that boost your self-confidence and your well-being. —

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