I have a confession to make. In January, I had my first physical in over three years. Like a lot of moms, I've put my own health on the back burner so that I can take care of my kids. First, I was just too exhausted with infant twins to do anything but survive. Then so busy running after toddlers that I thought I didn't have the time. But I was feeling really run down, and a New Year's cold almost knocked me out. It took some sage advice from my own mom to get me to make the call and finally schedule my appointment. As she reminded me, yes, my boys need me, but they need me to be healthy. By pushing my own wellness aside I wasn't only doing myself a disservice, but I was negatively impacting them as well. I realized I needed to take care of myself to take care of them. And I have a feeling that I'm not the only mom who needs this reminder.
Luckily, everything was fine, and I've vowed never to wait that long again. I've also resolved to make my own health and wellness a priority, much as I do for my kids. I make sure that they eat a healthy balanced diet, that they get exercise, a good night's sleep, and checkups when they need them. So now I'm determined to do the same for myself, to be healthy not only for my family but for myself.
Have you been neglecting your own health and wellness under the guise of being too busy? Maybe it's time for a wellness check up of your own! Here are my main ways to stay on track:
Make (and keep) Doctor's Appointments
Whether it's your annual physical, a mammogram, a skin check, or anything else that you need, be sure to stay up to date with your doctor's recommendations. Finding out that something may be going on before it's a bigger problem is critical to stay healthy. Schedule your appointments around your birthday so you don't forget!
Eat a Healthy Diet
Moms, repeat after me... the crusts that I cut off my kids' PB&J is not a healthy lunch. Take the time to feed yourself healthy meals and snacks, just like you do for your kids.
Get Moving
Hop on the swing set with your kids next time you're at the playground, challenge them to a game of tag, or do a little yoga on your own after they are in bed. Whatever your favorite exercise is, make sure you are doing it consistently (it's good for the body and the mind).
Take a Time Out
Focusing on your mental well being is just as important as your physical health. Commit to taking time for yourself on a regular basis - be it a monthly massage, a weekly yoga class, a pedicure, or even just a trip to browse in a bookstore. Stepping away from your "mom" role for a little while will help you to come back refreshed and renewed.
Take Your Vitamins
As part of my commitment to taking care of myself, I've added in a daily vitamin to my wellness routine. To support my energy metabolism, I'm trying out Nature Made®'s Stress B Complex. Designed to help turn the food I eat into cellular energy, these nutrients can help support cellular energy production.*
Finding and selecting the right Nature Made® vitamin is easy - I can pick them up on my regular errands at Walmart, where I know I'm always getting a great value. And, Nature Made is the #1 Pharmacist recommended supplement brand in 9 categories.**
And, to make it even easier to do your own wellness check up and find the Nature Made® vitamins that's right for you, through March 4 you can enter to win one of 20 $20 Walmart gift cards! See how here:
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any diseases.
**Based on US News & World Report – Pharmacy Times Survey, Nature Made is the #1 Pharmacist Recommended Brand in Nine Categories – Letter Vitamins, Omega-3/Fish Oil, Coenzyme Q10, Flaxseed Oil, Herbal Supplements, Cholesterol Management-Natural, Garlic, Diabetic Multivitamins and Mood Health Supplements”
And, to make it even easier to do your own wellness check up and find the Nature Made® vitamin that's right for you, through March 4 you can enter to win one of 20 $20 Walmart gift cards! See how here:
Nature Made Wellness 2
*I-C will randomly select 20 winners from all program entries and will handle fulfillment of the winning prizes.
How are you committed to staying on track with your wellness goals this year? Click here to be part of the Daily Boost from Nature Made® and get inspiration delivered right to your email!
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