A Healthier Me, A Healthier Us: Finding Myself in Motherhood
Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how hard it is to stay consistent when it comes to taking care of myself. It’s something I’ve struggled with since becoming an adult, and even more so now as a mother. I pour so much of my energy into making sure Ermias is well-fed, nurtured, and supported, but when it comes to my own needs? It’s so easy to push them aside.
The Reality of Motherhood and Self-Care
Taking care of myself isn’t as simple as just deciding to do it. It’s hard when I have a little one who clings to me, who finds comfort in my presence—whether he’s sitting on me, climbing on me, or needing to be in constant contact. Even in his sleep, if I move too far away, he fusses. And breastfeeding? That’s still a big part of our journey. It’s his grounding tool, his source of comfort in an ever-changing world.
Some might say extended breastfeeding is a crutch, but if it is, it’s a healthy one. It keeps him happy, secure, and connected. And I promised myself from the beginning that I wouldn’t take that away from him before he’s ready. He’ll stop when his brain tells him it’s time, and I trust that process. No shade to anyone who chooses to wean earlier—every parent has to make the choices that work best for them—but for us, this is what feels right.
The Weight of Exhaustion
Still, that doesn’t change the fact that I’m exhausted. I’ve been running on empty for a while, and my iron levels being constantly low doesn’t help. Lack of motivation, fatigue, and just feeling drained all the time—it makes it even harder to prioritize myself. But the truth is, I have to. Not just for me, but for him too. He needs a mom who feels good, who has the energy to keep up, who isn’t running on fumes every single day.
Small Steps Toward a Better Me
So, I’m starting small. I want to create an iron-boosting, mood-enhancing drink that I can take daily—something made from whole foods, not loaded with sugar, and easy to fit into my routine. Sure, I could take supplements, but I hate them. Food has always felt like the best medicine, and if I can make something that actually helps me feel better, I know I’ll stick with it.
Beyond that, I want to make space for little moments of self-care. It doesn’t have to be some grand transformation—just intentional steps. Eating better alongside Ermias, moving my body more, drinking more water, finding time to breathe. Not as another overwhelming to-do list, but as something that feels natural and manageable.
This is Just the Beginning
I don’t know exactly where this journey will lead, but I do know this: If I can do all of this for him, I can do it for myself too. And maybe, just maybe, if he sees me making better choices, he’ll feel even more encouraged to embrace the changes I’m making for him.
Every small step counts. And I’m ready to take them.
What About You?
Have you ever struggled to stay consistent with taking care of yourself? What small changes are you making for a healthier you? Let’s support and encourage each other—drop a comment below and share your journey!
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