Have you ever wondered how you can truly take care of your kids while ensuring youtake care of yourself? Hey there, it's Dr. Cynthia Hawver, and in this episode of the Mama Shrink Podcast,we're diving deep into a topic close to my heart: self-care for moms. As a licensedpsychologist and certified coach, I've witnessed the struggles many moms face inbalancing their own needs with the demands of parenting. While I'm not a substitute formental health care, I'm here to discuss the importance of self-care and how it directlyimpacts your role as a mother. We kick off by exploring the guilt that often accompanies the idea of self-care. Contraryto popular belief, prioritizing self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. I emphasize thatneglecting self-care can actually lead to feelings of emptiness and burnout, inadvertently making us less available to our loved ones. During this episode, I tackle the issue of judgment and perfectionism. I share mypersonal experiences as a people pleaser, highlighting the fear of what others mightthink when we take time for ourselves. The truth is, it's okay to let go of these worriesand set a positive example for our children by demonstrating self-care. We then delve into the challenge of finding time for self-care. I urge you to question thebelief that there's never enough time and to recognize that if something truly matters, we can make time for it. Remember, making time for self-care doesn't have to becomplicated – even a few minutes a day can make a significant difference. The heart of this episode centers around the concept that self-care is a gift – a gift toyourself, your family, and your children. The key takeaways are simple but profound: letgo of guilt and "shoulds," challenge the fear of judgment, release the pursuit ofperfection, and make even small moments of self-care a priority. By nurturing yourself,you're setting the foundation for a healthier and happier life for both you and your loved ones.   Key Takeaways: Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for effective parenting. Guilt, judgment, and perfectionism often hinder self-care efforts. Making time for yourself is a crucial aspect of maintaining well-being. Small acts of self-care can have a significant impact on mental health. Prioritizing self-care sets a positive example for your children.   Resources: Mama Shrink Podcast: Website Dr. Cynthia Haver's Website: http://www.drcynthiah.com Connect with Dr. Cynthia on Social Media: @dr.cynthiahawver National Suicide Crisis Line https://988lifeline.org/ - Call or text 988 if you're struggling with a mental health issue.