We have children. And all of a sudden, life is no longer about us, but our family. Suddenly, we feel guilty for doing things we never thought twice about before...like getting in a great workout, reading a book just for fun, or (fill in the blank). Some of us learned this behavior from our own caregivers growing up. Some of us put the pressure on ourselves to be everything to everyone else while sacrificing our own needs. Regardless of how feeling guilty about owning your self care came about as a woman and mother, we must start here. We must begin with the MWH phrase: Motherhood does not have to equal martyrdom. Not only CAN we make time for ourselves and our beautiful families, but we actually need to! We will show up for our children as happier, healthier examples when we unapologetically own our self care. So, let's promise to remind ourselves of this whenever guilt creeps in. We are setting an awesome example for our children by living healthfully; let's celebrate that! Ready to get started? Let's go.
Sometimes for moms, the most difficult part about starting a fitness program is releasing that guilt we just talked about. When this happens, repeat this mantra!
"I am an even better mom when I take time to nurture my body, mind, and spirit."
And as mothers, we need to show up everyday strong. We are who our children look to for comfort, support, and inspiration. Let's vow to give our daughters (and our sons) a great example of a woman who cherishes herself. Let's give our daughters an example of a woman who treats herself like she still matters, and is worthy of taking up space here on this Earth. And think about how you want your daughter to treat herself when she becomes a mother, making you a grandma who wears heels...would you want her to stop all self care in order to be a "good" mom? Or would you want her to show up for her family vibrant, healthy, happy? #FoodForThought
Questions to help you get started:
1. Have you ever been shamed either in your culture, family, or circle of friends for taking time out as a mother for your health and fitness goals?
2. How did this make you feel, and how did their shaming change your behavior?
3, How do you define being a 'fit mom'?
Grab a journal and some coffee and jot down your answers. Use your answers to make decisions aligned with your authentic values.
This is an excerpt from the top selling Moms Wear Heels Mommy Makeover Challenge EBOOK. Join now while still available.
Fit mom for me means I feel strong and have energy. Great post, Monica!
Loving seeing daily posts! Can you tell us more about your morning/day in the life routine? I have three under 7 years old and I’m in way over my head . Thanks in advance!!!
Sipping coffee and going to answer these now!! #1 got me thinking…