By Lynn Maxwell, HCI, BHC; CPT
“Hey, [insert your name here], can you have this on my desk by noon?” “Honey, is it possible to grab this while you’re out?” “Mommy, my project is due tomorrow; can you help?” The constant demands of daily life – from the moment you wake up to the moment you (hopefully) drift off to sleep – can feel like an endless cycle. It’s easy to get caught on the hamster wheel of prioritizing everyone else’s needs before your own. This is often ingrained in us: it’s what we’re “supposed” to do as women, wives, and mothers.
But what about your own mental, physical, and emotional health? How many times have you promised yourself you’d go to the gym, only to find yourself too exhausted or overwhelmed to even consider it? Is it fair to constantly put everyone else’s needs before your own? This constant cycle of putting others first can take a significant toll on your well-being. However, prioritizing self-care, including physical activity, can be a powerful antidote. Exercise isn’t just about burning calories; it’s a potent tool for boosting self-confidence and improving overall mental health.
