To the mum who feels guilty for having an afternoon nap.
I want you to know something really important. You are allowed to have an afternoon nap.
You are allowed to recharge your batteries before the school pick-up; before you become the taxi-driver for after school activities; before cooking dinner; helping with homework; tidying the house (if you can be bothered); putting kids to bed; having a shower (if you have the energy) and then if you’re not too exhausted, making some love.
Yes, you are definitely allowed an afternoon nap!! Please, stop feeling guilty! Remember, a mother’s job is 24/7.
As mothers, we are constantly thinking about our kids. What can we cook for breakfast, lunch and dinner? Wondering if they are safe and happy? Hoping they grow up to be happy and live the life they want to? What sport do I need to take them to today? Where are the car keys? Where’s their lunch box? Shit, there’s no bread left – quick raid the money box for lunch money?
This can be mentally and emotionally exhausting (and this doesn’t even touch on your needs or anyone else’s).
Yes! You are allowed to have an afternoon nap! You can have a morning nap too if you need it.
Maybe you were up all night nursing your child with high temperatures. Praying that it’s nothing serious. Fighting to stop those thoughts of “what if it’s this disease or that disease”. Wondering if a trip to emergency is needed.
And with one hour sleep, you get up and start preparing breakfast for the rest of the household. Making lunches. Doing school drop-off. Feeling guilty because you had to take your sick child with you. Cancelling your day so you can take care of your little one.
YES! You are allowed that nap!!
Let go of the guilt. Remind yourself that you are an AMAZING mum, doing the best you can each and every day. Stop beating up on yourself.
You deserve to treat yourself with compassion, nourishment and love. Your health and wellbeing is priority number ONE.
Put a movie on for the kids. Let them play the Xbox for half an hour. Grab your favourite blanket. Turn off the phone. GO take a nap! Recharge. Relax. Nourish yourself. You are so worth it!!
This is an act of Self-Love.
[Even if you’re not a mum and you want to take a nap but feel guilty. Do it. Take that nap. You’re allowed to rest and recharge.]
Share with a mum (or anyone) who you know needs a nap and some Self-Loving.
Jane
