Three Simple Ways Parents Can Look After Their Health

**Collaborative post**

Health and wellness is important for everyone, but when you have children relying on you it’s crucial to look after yourself after you’ve started a family. When you forget to check-in with yourself and neglect self-care for too long, this can sometimes lead to depressed feelings. Learn more about depression from BetterHelp.

The trouble often comes with the lack of time we can have as busy parents and we often forget it is good to talk, with so much to do we tend to be at the bottom of our own priority lists. However, there are some simple things you can do to protect your health – here are some ideas. 

Start walking more

One of the simplest ways to start is by being more active, burn calories, sculpt your body and feel better about yourself is simply to walk more. If you’re a slave to your car, start thinking about ways you could use it less. Instead of driving into town to run those errands, could you walk? Could you walk with your kids to school, or when you’re visiting a friend nearby could you leave the car at home? It will soon become a habit if you start doing this. It’s a chance to pop your headphones in and listen to some music or a podcast if you’re on your own. If you’re walking with someone else it’s a chance to catch up and have a chat, these chats with your kids walking to and from school can be a great way to stay close with them. Walking is free, accessible (just about everyone can do it) and will help you to feel better both physically and mentally. 

Give up smoking

We all know the dangers of smoking, but giving up can be incredibly hard, sometimes we can do it alone but other time we need help and to talk to someone. When you have kids, being a smoker can cause you significant guilt, even if you’re not smoking around them we know it’s not the ideal scenario. Try not to beat yourself up about it, instead, seek help and look into ways to quit. For those that are heavily addicted, investing in a vape starter kit and slowly lowering nicotine levels over time can be a good starting point. For others, visiting the stop smoking nurse at your GP and trying out various products from patches to gum could be the way to go. Your lungs will quickly feel clearer, you’ll be less breathless and won’t have the worry of any passive tobacco smoke lingering in your home. ‘Thirdhand’ smoke which is what can cling to walls, furnishings, cars and more have all been proven to be harmful to health. With vaping, you can avoid this since there are no toxic chemicals being burned or exhaled. 

Do fun family activities

We all lead busy lives when we have kids, so getting to the gym three times a week might not be an option for you. However, there are plenty of ways to be active while having fun and spending time with your kids. Arrange days out together- hikes, bike rides, trips to the trampoline park, football at the park- the list is endless. Not only is this quality family time but you all get to burn calories and feel fitter and healthier.