If you are a Pinterest searcher, as myself, I am sure you have stumbled across DIY self-care kits once or twice. Well, this is my take on it. The self-care kit for mommies who suffer from a mental illness (or are even just stressed out from the daunting responsibility of keeping a tiny human alive, because, let’s face it, that is stressful enough!). Feel free to leave additional suggestions in the comments or begin to come up with ideas for the “daddy edition”. I would’ve made a tandem mommy and daddy edition, but I am no expert on male self-care. I can barely care for myself half the time. I’m lucky if I eat 3 decent meals a day, rather than a few nibbles of my baby’s soft foods. So, please feel free to give suggestions on either gender. We all need care.
Self-care Kit: Mentally Ill Mommy Edition
Your favorite “feel good” book or movie (depending on if you need the quiet company of a book or the verbal company of your celebrity crush)
A playlist of your favorite upbeat songs (skip the depressive ones or the oldies that remind you of thou who shall not be named; we need to smile, not cry)
An oversized soft blanket or weighted blanket (apparently, it helps with anxiety… I have yet to test this theory, but hopefully I can spoil myself a bit and buy one soon)
Your favorite drink and snacks. Yes, I should be promoting “drink water” and “eat healthy” in this section, but hey, we are looking for comfort; not to be guilt tripped into making good dietary choices.
Oh, this one’s a fave of mine… smell good stuff! I personally enjoy essential oils (eucalyptus, lavender, sandalwood, oh my!) but a candle, wax burner, or even room spray will work
Another aromatherapy item… scented lotion. Moisturizer can work wonders for the skin and the mind.
For the art lovers, a journal, sketch pad, canvas, paint, pencils, pens, etc. are a must to have on hand for when the need to release our emotions through creation hits. Suggestion: make a list or draw pictures of things/people you love and that bring you happiness.
A list of phone numbers is always good to have. These should be people who will help calm you down and help lessen your anxiety/stress. In addition to your friends and family, you could also jot down your local suicide hotline or warmline, in case of a mental health emergency. It’s better to be prepared and proactive.
Yoga, anyone? If you have a yoga mat, it can be beneficial to have this handy when you need to release physical tension. In addition to having your mat, it is also good to have a yoga app, pose book, or even a program on your television to follow along with. Unless you already know the sun salutation. Namaste.
A bath bomb, bath salts, or bubbles in case you find the rare ten minutes to jump in a warm bath. Peace and quiet? Yes, please! My current obsession is Epsom salts with mint leaves, but I currently purchased lemon honey Epsom salts from Dollar General for $1! They have a delicious citrus scent and I cannot wait to try them.
Either a photo box, scrapbook, or an album on your cellphone of pictures of people/things that will put a smile on your face 🙂
Fuzzy socks, slippers, or Aloe Vera infused socks
A face mask or your favorite face wash for a facial
Favorite nail polish with nail file/cuticle pusher/clippers
Okay… that’s all for now. My child is crying and throwing a hissy. So, I must go. I am most definitely going to need my self-care kit in about 3… 2… 1…
