Fredericksburg Parent

12 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • November 2021 The Busy Parent's The Busy Parent's Guide to Rest Guide to Rest Let's be honest—parenting is like trying to run an 18-plus year marathon without prior endurance training. No one is prepared for this race! Even those who start off strong may find themselves barely able to crawl before the finish line enters their sight. The time and energy we invest into raising our children can leave us exhausted, frustrated and emotionally spent to the point of having little left to give to our families…or ourselves. Many people believe this is par-for-the-parent- ing course. However, parental burnout is not something to be overlooked or minimized as it can lead to more than just an overtired mom or short-tempered dad. In fact, any kind of burnout can have serious implications on one's mental and physical health. Some signs of parental fatigue (burnout) include: • Low energy • Low tolerance levels • Dreading the day ahead • Needing (not just wanting) a break • Worrying more • Feeling hopeless, depressed or anxious • Not wanting to be touched, or just wanting to be left alone • Feeling easily overwhelmed by new tasks • Battling feelings of resentment or guilt If you are experiencing one or more of these signs, it may be time for an honest self-evaluation and some serious self-care. Many parents, moms especially, feel guilty for taking time for themselves. But it's imperative to put your own oxygen mask on first! WRITTEN BY RHIANNON ELLIS There is a delicate balance between selfishness and self-sacrifice; it is called self-care.

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