Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom. How do you define self-care? Are you establishing a routine of self-care that supports you to meet your kid's needs? Nicole Barlow joins the podcast to discuss how we think about self-care, why it's crucial, and how to create rhythms of self-care in our homes. She is a certified wellness coach, TBRI® Practitioner, and parent trainer for foster and adoptive parents. In this episode, we discuss: Re-define self-care Why is self-care crucial for parents and caregivers? Why do so many of us resist or neglect self-care? What are some of the benefits of a well-rounded approach to self-care that might move the needle for someone who says, “I’m too busy…” or “Self-care is selfish, etc.” What are some of the indicators we might identify in our lives that say we should focus on our wellbeing more intently? Framing a holistic approach to self-care: Physical wellness Emotional & Mental wellness Spiritual wellness Where does one start if we’ve never established regular self-care routines? How can we build from that starting place into overall rhythms of self-care? Where do practices like meal planning, budgeting, and home management fit into the picture? What about socialization, building a support network, engaging in respite, etc.? What do you recommend to parents and caregivers who look up one day and find themselves isolated or without a solid support network? Where do they start building or re-building that for themselves? Practical advice to start and maintain a self-care routine Walk every day Boost the benefit by walking with a friend Boost the benefit by engaging in quiet time, self-reflection, prayer, etc. Engage in strength training Building muscle aids the body in processing stress Eat whole foods Nourishing your body aids in regulating and processing stress Support the show Please leave us a rating or review. This podcast is produced by www.CreatingaFamily.org . We are a national non-profit with the mission to strengthen and inspire adoptive, foster & kinship parents and the professionals who support them. Creating a Family brings you the following trauma-informed, expert-based content: Weekly podcasts Weekly articles/blog posts Resource pages on all aspects of family building