It can occasionally be challenging to find the time and resources to engage in self-care as a Christian parent. It might be challenging to prioritize taking care of yourself in order to best take care of your children when you have obligations to your job, family, church, and other things. It is even more crucial for parents to prioritize their personal needs because research reveals that almost half (48%) of all parents feel that they are not receiving the assistance they require and are under stress. Christian parents must comprehend the value of taking care of themselves for this reason, especially in these uncertain times.
Taking time for oneself, participating in activities that support well-being and relaxation, or simply allowing yourself to rest are all examples of self-care. Saying “no” when it’s appropriate and creating boundaries when they’re required are also included. It not only helps people by enabling them to better care for themselves and those around them, but it is also an essential component of following Jesus’ teachings.
In verses like “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life…for your heavenly Father knows what you need” (Matthew 6:25-34) or “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit…in humility value others above yourselves,” the Bible gives us numerous examples of how we should care for our spiritual and physical well-being (Philippians 2:3). These verses show how putting spiritual health first should influence our bodily health as well.
So how can we tell if we require a self-care strategy? Changes in your eating or sleeping patterns, headaches, dizziness, or stomach problems, feelings of unease or guilt, difficulties focusing, withdrawn or irate behavior, and sobbing fits are all indications that you might benefit from one. If any of these apply to you, now is the time to start incorporating some doable techniques into your daily schedule.
Effective self-care advice for overburdened parents includes meditating (even for just five minutes), doing something just for you without kids, like going for a walk outside or reading your favorite book, carving out time alone each day, connecting with friends and family, limiting screen time, exercising regularly, journaling or writing down thoughts or feelings, finding ways to give back by volunteering your time or making a donation, and attending church regularly. eating healthily rather than relying on processed foods and takeaways; praying frequently – talking to God about what’s going on inside you during the day will help bring serenity into stressful moments; Attending spiritual retreats, if you can, will allow you to take a break from daily stressors for a few days and rediscover your sense of purpose in life. Lastly, don’t forget to have fun! A terrific approach to reconnecting with those closest to us and spending quality time together is to laugh with friends via Zoom calls or play board games with family.
Christian parents can restore their serenity via self-care while still carrying out their responsibilities as devoted caretakers by adhering to these suggestions every day. At its foundation, this practice entails taking things slowly enough to be able to attend to one’s own emotional needs before helping others, much as Jesus did throughout his time on earth. In the end, self-care is an act of faith that gives each of us—especially working parents—space to breathe and acceptance of our limitations so that we may better care for those who depend on us most—our kids!
