Self-care for creative types busy with kids
Whether you’re a new parent or a regular busy one, here are some creative ideas for self-care that you can squeeze into your day.
Doing something creative does wonders for your wellbeing and when you’re caring for a new baby or busy running around after your family, it’s great to have something you can pick up and put down as you need to.
Remember, it doesn’t have to be something you’re good at, it just needs to be something you enjoy.
Try and build some of these ideas into your week.
Get your colouring pencils or paintbrushes out
If you’re a visual person then working on a colouring, drawing or painting project that you can do while your baby naps or the kids are busy is time well spent.
It’s not about what you actually produce but the act of being creative and getting into a ‘flow’ state where your mind is focussed on your project rather than other daily concerns.
Put pen to paper
Writing a journal or blog every day or few days allows you to process your thoughts and feelings and means you’ll have a record of this incredible phase of your life.
Dust off your camera
A photography project where you document some part of your life - whether it’s your growing child, the sunset, or a beautiful tree you pass on your daily walk is simple but pleasurable. You can compile your pictures and create an album of the changes you’ve observed.
Suggested reading: How happy memories can boost your mood
Try something that keeps your hands busy
Having something creative you can do while watching TV is the kind of multi-tasking that new parents often become excellent at. Whether it’s knitting, needlepoint or card making, it’s nice to have something you’re bringing to life, other than a new human being!
Take a class online or in person
If you can get away once a week to a class in something you love like pottery or cooking it’s good for your brain to learn something new. If leaving the house is too hard try something online.