2 May 2009 SanTan FAMILY FUN
HHelping mom help herself elping mom help herself
by Miriam Van Scott “It is so easy to get in a rut and stay there,”
Mom is always there for everyone else – says Friedman. “Get out of your repetitive pattern
packing lunches, kissing boo-boos, offering a pat and monotonous routine and find some time every
on the back and a shoulder to cry on – but often day, whether it’s 15 minutes alone to relax in a
she finds there is no room on her busy to-do bath, read a magazine or enjoy a glass of wine or
list for taking care of herself. Yet, tending to her a favorite treat on the patio. It is important. We
physical, emotional and psychological needs is key all have 15 minutes a day to devote to ourselves.
not only to mom’s health, but to the well-being of Make it a priority and stick to it.”
the entire family. And, don’t fall into the trap of equating “me
“I’m always telling my patients ‘You need to time” with being selfish, warns Dr. Belisle.
take time for yourself,’” says Dr. Denise Belisle “Guilt is a natural part of being a mom,” Belisle
of Valley Women for Women. “It’s extremely explains. “But don’t let that stop you from taking
important – as important as taking time for doctor care of yourself. I encourage moms to set aside
appointments, because stress builds up and you’ll some time at least once a month for a massage.
eventually bring that stress to your family life.” That will relieve stress, and one day a month is T
But how does a busy mom find time for not that much to ask.”
herself between work, diaper changes, teacher In fact, knowing that mom is happy, healthy and
conferences, play dates and a host of other worthy of attention actually helps hubby and kids.w
household chores and family activities? “It is very beneficial for other family members
“Focus that energy you pour so willingly into to see Mom taking care of herself instead of just
your family onto yourself,” recommends Andrea seeing her in the role of being everyone else’s
Friedman, AFAA certified fitness instructor caretaker,” says Friedman. “Her children will see
and founder of Boot Camp Babes AZ. “You’ll her exude confidence and pride. She’s teaching
surprisingly find there will be more of you to go her family that balance is a healthy and natural
around. You’ll be a better wife and mother for part of life.”
doing it, and you feel better when you take the Both Belisle and Friedman agree moms serve
time to care about yourself.” others best when they are attending to their own
Friedman recommends moms rearrange their well-being.w
daily schedules and make changes that allow
MOM TIME: Help Mom stress less by encouraging her to take time for
“Take care of you first; otherwise, what good
some “me time.” Simple adjustments like getting herself. are you to your family?” asks Friedman. “Make
up half an hour before the rest of the family to do yourself a priority and don’t ever forget it.”
an exercise tape or taking a walk after dinner can make a big difference. She also
believes it’s important to set sensible goals to keep on track. Miriam Van Scott of Kerby Estates is a freelance writer and Chandler transplant from the
Washington, D.C. area. She can be reached at
Miriam@SanTanSun.com.
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