Thoughts on Mama Guilt
Wow, mama guilt is real and heavy and awful. It is so deeply embedded into our biology and social structure that, for most mamas, taking the time to nourish her own soul immediately causes a feeling of guilt. It's the same for me. Make the "wrong decision" and feel that guilt rise up. I always preach about filling your cup and the importance of "me time" but that doesn't mean that I am immune to the sneaky feelings of mama guilt. In fact, I felt it BIG time this weekend. I had two very special events for which I had committed weeks ago and was really excited about. However, when the time rolled around to attend, I started coming up with excuses. My mind immediately went to, " I should be spending time with my family". And I do and I should and I absolutely adore family time but like everybody else, I need time when I am not in mama mode. It makes me a better mama to have a few hours to myself every once in a while.
How do you stop the guilt? This is the hard part and the million dollar question. I think it is important to acknowledge the feeling and then remind myself why I am taking the time. Perhaps it is to attend a yoga class or maybe it is to go grocery shopping alone or to get a pedicure. These things make you (me!) feel good and like a happy human. Also, I often remind myself that my daughter is in excellent hands and is having a ball!
What do you do to release feelings of mama guilt? I SO far from an expert here and would love to hear what you do!