This week I was honored to be a part of two virtual events where I got to share my expertise on self-care with two different groups of educators. While preparing and participating in these events, I was reminded of some important aspects of self-care that I want to share with you in this week’s blog.
The Importance of Sleep Routines for Children
Hopefully, you are maintaining a sleep routine for yourself and getting enough sleep. If you are suffering from anxiety or having trouble sleeping, I recommend looking into a weighted blanket. For more information, you can read my previous blog post for more information, Wrapped in a Hug – A weighted blanket review.
For children right now without their typical routines, sleep is particularly important. Sleep deprivation can have an influence on the development of children’s brains as well as impact their mood and behavior. Dr. Daniel Lewin wrote an insightful article about children and the recommended amount of sleep to maintain function and promote healthy growth. Lewin also provides tips for maintaining a healthy sleep routine for children. The article can be viewed by clicking here.
Mindsets
I talked about shifting our mindset a couple of weeks ago in a blog post. But this week, I encourage you to watch out for the “shoulds” in the way we talk and think. Be careful of this word. We tend to use it a lot. I should do this; I should do that, I should, I should, I should.
“Shoulds” are full of good intentions, but they tend just to make us feel overwhelmed and inadequate. If you can shift the word should, into a must, your behavior will likely change.
Here is an activity to try:
- Take a piece of paper and make two columns.
- Write your “should” list on the left-hand side. (ex. I should eat healthily or I should exercise)
- Rewrite your shoulds as “must” statements on the right-hand side of the paper. (ex. I must eat healthily or I must exercise)
- Pay attention to how that simple shift makes you feel.
- Take the list and place it somewhere where you can read it every day as a reminder.
Opportunities, Gifts & Beauty
I hope you have had time to find the opportunities, gifts, and beauty of it all during these times. Sometimes, they are hard to see, but they are there. Slowing down is not a bad thing, and it should not be viewed as such. I have seen people come together in new ways, businesses reinventing themselves, and families having dinner together. On the other side of this pandemic, I hope that we continue to recognize the importance of rest and practice more gratitude. This is not to minimize the stress and anxiety we are experiencing, but I wish not to dwell on it and instead look for the beauty.
Comment below and tell me something positive that has happened in the last few weeks.
Be sure to join me Tuesday, April 21st at 12PM (EST) on Facebook as Dr. MC’s Self-Care Cabaret goes LIVE to talk about self-care!
Stay well,
Dr. MC