Kaboutjie SA Mommy Blogs by Lynne Huysamen
Being a parent isn’t an easy job. There’s just so much going on with your life and that of your kids that you may find yourself falling short in the self-care department. This is especially a double whammy when you’ve got physical rehabilitation to deal with.
But that shouldn’t be the case. Pain management? Post-surgery rehabilitation? Injury recovery? Whatever the reason you’re out there receiving physical rehabilitation, nailing parenthood while at it is a great idea.
Wondering how to get that right? Here’s your guide.
Know The Resources Available To You
You’re not just a parent, and you’re not just someone in rehab – you’re a unique blend of both. That’s pretty much what your support system should reflect.
Medical pros? Online communities and local support groups? These are your fellow warriors, people who’ve been in your shoes and can share a tip or two, or just lend an ear when you need it. What’s in store? A treasure trove of lived experiences and practical advice – from navigating healthcare systems to finding those little life hacks that make daily tasks a bit easier.
If you’re wondering where to start, look into services like Active Ability or other local options. This isn’t about pushing you to the limits; it’s about understanding your body’s new language and making it work for you.
Set Realistic Goals
Being a parent is all about juggling. There are morning routines, bedtime stories, and everything in between. Throw physical rehabilitation into the mix, and you’ve got yourself quite the challenge.
But fear not, the trick is in finding your balance. Start by setting realistic, achievable goals for both your parenting responsibilities and your rehabilitation journey.
Remember, it’s not about doing everything at once. Break down your daily tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Each tiny victory, each step forward, deserves its own round of applause.
Celebrate these milestones – they’re signs of your progress and resilience.
Create A Supportive Network
Now, let’s talk about your support squad. Parenting, as rewarding as it is, can sometimes feel like a solo mission. But it doesn’t have to be. Turn to your family, friends, and support groups. These are the people who can offer a helping hand or a listening ear when you need it most.
Share your struggles and triumphs with them. You’ll find that there’s incredible power in shared experiences – they can be therapeutic, enlightening, and might just be the source of some unexpected wisdom.
Adapt Your Home Environment
Think about making your home more ‘you-friendly’ and ‘kid-friendly’ at the same time. It’s not just about ramps and rails (though they’re super helpful), but also about creating an environment where you and your little ones can thrive.
Maybe it’s rearranging furniture for easier movement, or setting up a cosy, accessible corner for family time. It’s all about making your space work for you, not the other way around. After all, a comfy home makes for a happier you and happier kids.
Integrate Rehabilitation With Parenting
Now, here’s a cool idea – teaming up with your kids in your rehabilitation journey. Why not make your exercises a family affair? It’s killing two birds with one stone – you get your rehab done, and your kids get a fun, bonding activity with mom or dad.
Maybe they can count your reps or show you their version of the exercise (cue the giggles). It’s a win-win: you’re working on getting stronger, and at the same time, you’re building these precious, fun moments with your kids.
Prioritise Self-care
Parenting and rehabilitation? That’s one tough gig. Often, self-care ends up being the first thing you sacrifice. The thing is, self-care’s an essential part of this whole balancing act. You need to be in good shape – physically and mentally – to manage your responsibilities effectively.
So, how about a deal? Promise to give yourself the same care and attention that you give your kids. Get enough sleep, fuel your body with nutritious food, and carve out little pockets of peace for yourself.
Whether it’s a quiet cup of coffee in the morning, a short walk, or just some time with a good book, these moments can recharge your batteries. Remember, a happy, healthy you is the best gift you can give to your children.
Communicate Openly With Your Children
Kids are like sponges – they pick up on more than you realise. It’s easy to think you should shield them from your struggles, but being open about your physical rehabilitation can actually be beneficial.
Sit down with them, have a heart-to-heart, and explain what’s going on. You might be surprised at how understanding and empathetic they can be. This isn’t about sharing every detail or burdening them with your worries. It’s about letting them know why you might need a little extra rest or why you can’t play as vigorously as before.
It’s also a great opportunity to teach them about resilience, patience, and the importance of health. And who knows? Maybe this open line of communication can bring you closer together.
Educate Yourself
When it comes to your condition and rehabilitation methods, a little homework goes a long way. Managing chronic pain? Recovering from surgery? Rebuilding strength after an injury?
Whatever it is, understanding your condition better equips you to tackle it head-on. And it’s not just about your recovery. It’s also about weaving this knowledge into your parenting too. Because when you’re informed, you’re empowered – empowered to make choices that benefit both your health and your family life.
Practice Patience And Compassion
Let’s face it, some days you’re the superhero parent, and other days, it’s a win if everyone’s fed and in bed on time. And that’s perfectly okay.
Dealing with physical rehabilitation is a journey with its ups and downs. On those rough days, remember to cut yourself some slack. You’re juggling a lot, and it’s essential to treat yourself with the same compassion you offer your kids.
Celebrate the small victories, learn from the not-so-great moments, and remind yourself that progress, no matter how small, is still progress. Patience and compassion towards yourself are your secret weapons in this balancing act of parenting and rehabilitation.
In Closing
Yes, being a parent and undergoing physical rehabilitation at the same time isn’t a cakewalk. It calls for strength, perseverance, and a healthy dose of self-care.
This guide can go a long way in helping you get the right balance. So, keep the tips in mind while you undergo the process. And where you find the going too tough? Ask for help. You’ve got experts in the medical field, and also people close to you who wouldn’t hesitate to take part of the burden off your shoulders.
