The Importance of Self-Care for Military Spouses

Nurturing Your Well-Being Amid Unique Challenges

Being a military spouse brings forth distinctive challenges, from frequent relocations to managing a household solo. Not only during deployments but even in most day-to-day situations. The responsibilities can often feel overwhelming, making it important to prioritize self-care. Contrary to being selfish, taking care of yourself is a necessity for your well-being and your capacity to effectively support your family. It's difficult though, because you're often in a place where you don't know where to go to get your nails done, or have anyone you can count on to watch your children. Here's some tips on how to get it done, and how I manage without my spouse around.

1. Prioritize Your Physical Health:

Maintaining good physical health is vital for navigating the demands of life. Prioritizing regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and getting sufficient sleep. Exercise can alleviate stress, elevate your mood, and boost energy levels. Nutritious meals and ample rest provide the stamina and resilience necessary to confront challenges head-on. They all sound great, but honestly are hard to accomplish when you're trying to do it all. I'm lucky enough that my child still naps, so I'll go for a treadmill run a few times a week while they are asleep. I try to get out on walks with them often, finding that the fresh air and exercise help us both. Our area also has a program called SLAM (Sweat Like A Mother) that allows you to bring your baby or toddler along for the ride.

2. Nurture Your Emotional Well-Being:

Life's emotional challenges, marked by frequent separations and uncertainties, necessitate acknowledging and processing your emotions. Find healthy outlets for expression, whether through journaling, confiding in a trusted friend, or seeking professional counseling. Engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation. I have a corner of my office that is set up with a comfy chair, plants, and sunlight. It's my reading corner, but I often just sit there and relax because it's so peaceful. Make space in your house for yourself.

3. Build a Supportive Network:

Connect with fellow military spouses who understand your unique experiences. Explore local support groups, online communities, or social media platforms to share thoughts, concerns, and triumphs. A supportive network fosters a sense of belonging and provides a safe space for seeking advice and encouragement. This one can be really tough as we move so often, it's exhausting trying to "find your tribe" every time. There have been moves where I just... gave up and didn't try to make friends locally. During those times, I leaned heavily on my support network back home. Luckily social media and smart phones have made it so much easier to stay in touch. Using apps like FamilyAlbum and Locket (Google Play or Apple) are fun ways to make sure your photos remain private.

4. Set Boundaries and Practice Saying No:

As a military spouse, it's easy to become entangled in others' demands and neglect your needs. Learn to set boundaries and prioritize your time and energy. Saying no to commitments that overwhelm you is perfectly acceptable. Remember, self-care is not a luxury but a necessity.

5. Embrace Self-Care Rituals:

Incorporate self-care rituals into your routine for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether it's a warm bath after everyone is in bed, meditation, yoga, a cup of tea, or indulging in a beloved hobby, make these activities a regular part of your routine. These moments of self-care will recharge you, providing renewed strength to face the unique challenges of military life.

Prioritizing self-care as a military spouse is not only essential for your well-being but also enhances your ability to support your service member and family effectively. By tending to your physical, emotional, and mental needs, you'll be better equipped to navigate the distinctive challenges of military life. Remember, self-care is an investment in your happiness and resilience, not a selfish act. Make it a priority and embrace the moments of relaxation and rejuvenation that will help you thrive in your role as a military spouse.