Practicing self-care can seem like an impossible feat after having kids but although it can be difficult it’s so important for your well-being. When I do these three simple things each and everyday it helps me feel less-stressed, refreshed and happier. And a happier mom means a happier home doesn’t it?? 
Here are three simple things that I do everyday that make me feel happier.
It starts in the morning.
1. Get Dressed
It seems like such a small feat doesn’t it? But it can do so much for your psyche. There used to be days, right after I had my first baby, that I would stay in the same clothes alll….day….long. Until my husband came home and then I would run and take a 2 minute shower. I always felt so…out of it, so rushed, I felt like I was just barely making it everyday. I realized that when I started getting up just a little bit earlier to have a few minutes for myself and get dressed, I felt better about myself which ultimately made me happier. Even if it can’t get the time in before the kids wake up I will still take the baby into the bathroom with me. When the kids were babies I used to take the best baby rocker we ever purchased into the bathroom with me and get in a few minutes. Now that the baby is older, I can keep him in his playpen and let him play while I get in a few minutes each day. Getting dressed doesn’t have to mean getting ready to go out on date-night, but put on your favorite graphic tee. It’s the little things.
2. Get Pretty
I don’t mean to get pretty as if you’re going out with your girlfriends. But get out your favorite beauty products and apply a little something to make you feel good. Maybe to you that means putting on lip gloss or a face cream. For me that means using Neutrogena Naturals. Over the past few years I’ve been making the switch to using more natural products on my family and my own skin is a priority too. I feel safe putting Neutrogena Naturals on my skin because the line uses bionutrients, so nutrients found in nature and your own skin, that promotes healthy skin without the use of harsh chemicals that I don’t want anywhere near my face.
- NEW Neutrogena® Naturals Brightening Daily Moisturizer with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 25 This is a lightweight formula with 94% naturally derived ingredients that provides moisture while skin-brightening lemon peel, an effective bio nutrient, works with your skin to even skin tone in just 4 weeks. This moisturizer is formulated without harsh chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, petrolatum, dyes, phthalates and provides Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection without clogging pores!
- Neutrogena® Naturals Purifying Pore Scrub Gently scrubs away impurities and dull, dead skin cells that can build up in pores to improve complexion for fresh, clear skin. Suitable for even acne prone skin. Gentle enough for daily use. Won’t clog pores.
- Neutrogena® Naturals Purifying Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes These ultra-soft wipes are clinically proven to completely remove dirt, oil and makeup, targeting even the most stubborn long-wearing and waterproof makeup. Skin is left purified, fresh and healthy-looking with no greasy residue, so there’s no need to rinse. Made from naturally-derived fibers that come from sustainably-managed forests.
- Neutrogena® Naturals Fresh Cleansing + Makeup Remover Completely cleans skin and removes makeup in one step without stripping skin’s natural moisture. This Peruvian Tara seed bionutrient rich cleanser leaves skin soft and rinses clean. Developed for gentle eye area.
3. Get in some quiet time
Finding the time to get in some time to get some quiet time in a house full of kids can sound tough but it might be as easy as getting some fresh air while the kids play outside. It can also mean getting out of the house to break-up the day. There are times when the house can be loud and crazy and taking a 10 minutes drive down the road to get a cup of coffee can give my mind and the quiet time I need to recharge.
Quiet time can also be taken in intervals. Twice a day take 10-15 minutes and instead of going to do the laundry or check emails or do the dishes, go do something else. Sit and take a minute to breathe, have a cup of coffee or read a chapter in a book. Clear your mind and forget about your to-do list.
It’s so easy to forget yourself when you’re a busy mom but practicing self-care will make you feel happier and healthier.