Neglecting Self For Family
Q. I love my husband and family and take good care of them, but I am neglecting myself badly. I'm out of shape, and feel terrible. I used to feel pretty good about myself. I don't know how to regain my self-esteem.
A. Life is a balancing act. How to find enough time to work, care for our homes and the others in our lives, and take care of ourselves too, is challenging to the max. Yet wherever we stop caring will show up in our lives more and more glaringly until we care again. Some people let go of taking care of themselves. Others may stop putting time into nurturing their relationship. Since you love nurturing your family, look at where you can combine some self-nurturing with family time. Are you all couch potatoes? Instead of watching tv and eating, pack a picnic and go to the beach. Walk and swim. Or go for a hike. Find new places to explore, or take up a sport you can do together, like snorkeling, cycling, tennis, or paddling. . Doing things in nature that nurture you is good for your spirit and soul as well as your body, and the natural high that comes from this will help you feel good again as you watch yourself coming back to that person who feels good about herself again. You could even join the Y where your kids can swim or take a class while you and your husband work out together. Get creative about your time. Make every minute of your day count doing things that feel good all the way through! That way, you will feel good about yourself, knowing you are making good choices that support you AND your family.
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