Moms, give and take care

You do a lot for your kids. Cleaning. Changing. Feeding. Playing. Reading. Singing. Shopping. Chauffeuring. No matter how old your children are, you do a lot for them. (Are you exhausted yet?)

Taking care of your own well-being is as important — or more so — than anything else you do. Here’s why it’s a total win-win and why it’s far from selfish to make self-care happen:

• You’ll feel better now. Walking. Yoga. Spinning class. A relaxing soak in the tub. Massage. Pedicure. Reading. Meditation. Do whatever activities (or inactivities) put you in a better frame of mind. It will help you better handle the rest of your load today.

• You’ll feel better later. Maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, lowering your blood pressure and getting regular check-ups, can all help you live longer and healthier. And that is a precious gift to your children and grandchildren.

• You’ll be a great example. Kids are great imitators. If you’ve heard your favorite catch phrases pop out of the mouth of your toddler, you know all about that. By taking care of yourself, you’re showing your little ones that your health is a priority. That’s a lesson they will carry into adulthood as they learn to take care of themselves.

• You’ll set good boundaries. Once we have children, it’s natural to love being called “Mom,” but it’s not our only identity. Setting age-appropriate boundaries with your kids gives them a chance to see you as a unique individual with your own wishes and plans. One day they’ll be grown and on their own (we hope, right?). Nurture your dreams so you continue to grow and achieve what you want long after they’ve left the nest.

How do you make it happen? Taking care of yourself isn’t a solo venture. You don’t have to do it alone. What’s healthy for us as individuals may be just as healthy for the kids, other family members and friends so you can do it together.

Of course, alone time is just as necessary. To get a few minutes of precious "me time,” ask for help. Enlist the aid of your husband, partner, best friend, family or the other moms to come alongside you for support.

The next time you’re planning the week’s activities, make sure your own well-being is represented on the list. Your kids will thank you (someday).