You cannot pour from an empty cup.

You may have heard this saying before. There is often a good reason that these sayings stay around for generations. It is so true!

Raising children is a challenge, especially when you consider that it is not a 9 to 5 job. Kids need care around the clock. The demands can be high and so you need to try to stay at the top of your game to meet those demands. It may feel selfish to consider your needs before your child’s needs but I truly believe that it is not. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup.

Self care need not take all your attention away from the ones who need your time. It can be as simple as stopping for a moment just to breathe and tell yourself that you are doing a good job. Let your children see you take moments to relax, center yourself and use supportive words like “I can do this” or “I feel good when I just stop and breathe” Remember that children learn how to begin to care for themselves and others by watching you do the same thing.

Theresa Mitchell