5 Clear Signs That You Need to Take Better Care of Yourself

Months after having my second child I found myself exhausted, anxious, stressed and grumpy. Not all that uncommon after a life changing event and huge transition for the entire family. But, I was starting to feel this way all the time, so much so it was affecting my everyday life. Through reflection, communication and acceptance I was able to see these particular signs that I needed to take better care of myself:

1. Poor Health

My body was not functioning properly. I was fatigued during the day, but couldn’t sleep at night. My gut did not like anything I ate (which wasn’t the healthiest anyway because I was unmotivated to cook healthy meals). And I spent a lot of time in the bathroom for reasons...These symptoms were telling me that I needed to make physical and mental changes to get my body functioning properly again. Small changes like drinking more water, taking vitamins, creating a relaxing space before bed and trying to manage my anxiety have all helped my physical well being.

1. Mentally and Physically Exhausted

Despite NOT going for a 6 mile run or completing a HIIT workout, I was feeling physically exhausted in the middle of the day. On top of that I was unmotivated and unable to focus on anything that took mental energy. Trying to carry the load of everything is tiring! Instead, replenish your tank by taking some time for yourself--set a timer for a short nap, go out for coffee with a friend, have your husband run the errands for the day. Take a break to re-energize your mind and body.

1. Working Too Much

We’ve all been here: putting too many hours in at the office, saying yes to another activity on an already full calendar or not having enough hours in the day to complete our To Do list. If you start missing out on special events or can’t enjoy family time because you’re worried about what needs to be done still, then take this as your sign that you need to take a break. Instead, reflect on what truly matters in your life and make sure you’re valuing your time. Say "no" to the things that don’t bring you joy. Get three main "to do’s" done in a day and let the rest go. You have to start managing your one life.

1. Anxious/Overwhelmed

Anxiety can be all consuming to your life. It will affect your sleep, health, relationships, work performance and more. If that overwhelming feeling is unshakeable then the first step is to talk to somebody--your spouse, friend, counselor. You’ll feel a sense of relief, leaving room for positive changes in your life. Ask for help if you know a certain "thing" triggers you (hello whining toddler!), delegate tasks or even hire out. Accept that you can’t do it all by yourself and your body and mind will thank you.

1. Skipping Basic Needs

My child had been to the doctor six times in six months just to be looked over. I had only been once (despite having just birthed a baby!). The family was fed every morning but I was skipping meals. My basic needs (sleep, exercise, alone time, meals) were being neglected. Sacrificing your own well being is a direct indication that you need to take better care of yourself.

"Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel." --Eleanor Brown

As women, we always have a lot on our plate and the mental load that we carry can be overbearing. In order to live a healthy life and thrive, we need to take a beat and lean into our own self care. Not sure where to start? Take this Self Care Quiz to better understand our own awareness of taking care of ourselves.

Jenn writes at her blog healthyhappyimpactful.com. She’s a mom of three looking to learn and grow. Check it out if you love helpful tips on health, family, and personal growth.