Manage Time To Do Self-Care With Child During The Work Day
I am a wife, mother of two young daughters, and I work full-time in an office. It’s very important to get up early in the morning for a productive day. After waking up early, I freshen up and complete my morning prayer. Then, I drink a glass of water on an empty stomach, followed by a date. Sometimes, I substitute plain water with lemon water, chia seed soaked water, or warm water. The regularity of lemon water has been very beneficial, helping me manage my weight and feel lighter throughout the day. While my children are still asleep, I prepare breakfast and use this time to do my skincare routine, which may include applying a face mask, doing facial exercises, or practicing yoga.
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After making breakfast, I wake up my elder daughter for school. She cuddles with me for a moment, seeking some love, and I cherish these moments by holding her close. Then, I help her get ready by freshening her up, dressing her in her uniform, combing her hair, and braiding it as she likes. While I dress and comb her hair, I give her a boiled egg to eat. Then, I pack her lunchbox. She organizes her books and stationery in her bag the night before, as we are trying to teach her self-service skills. By the time I finish getting my elder daughter ready for school, my younger daughter wakes up and cries for my attention. I pick her up and explain that her sister is getting ready for school. Then, my husband takes both of them to school. This gives me time to get ready for the office. I wash my face, apply moisturizer, and sunscreen (a must these days!). To manage sweat, I now use face powder with SPF. I change my clothes, comb my hair, and braid it. Finally, I finish breakfast. By this time, my husband and younger daughter are back home. I pick up my younger daughter and try to feed her too.
I am fortunate to have my mother alive and well to look after my daughters. She also joins us for breakfast. Then, my husband and I leave for work together, leaving my daughter with my mother.
When I return from work, my children greet me with shouts of ‘Mother come home!’ I spend some time with them, freshening up myself in between. My caregiving continues as I play with them and do chores throughout the evening. I complete my skincare routine in stages. For example, after taking a bath, I apply moisturizer to my face and lotion to my hands and legs, allowing time for absorption. I also ensure I drink enough water throughout the day, especially upon returning home. After finishing the cooking, we all have dinner together. Before my nighttime skincare routine, I brush my teeth to remove any germs that might cause acne. Following that, I double cleanse my face because of the sunscreen – a crucial step. Immediately after, I apply moisturizer to my face and lotion again to my hands and legs, as I wash them frequently. Next comes the serum, which could be alpha arbutin or salicylic acid. While the serum absorbs, I prepare the bed for sleep. Once the children and my husband are in bed and ready to sleep, I apply niacinamide to my face, allowing it time to absorb. During this time, I tell bedtime stories to my children.
As they drift off to sleep, I finally apply moisturizer to my face and say goodnight.