Snappy Self Care for Special Needs Parents
I just had a REAL bath for the first time this week! It was glorious! I feel so clean, so refreshed.
I know you’re wondering why today was the first time all week that I’ve taken a bath. Well, simply put, my child has been in crisis mode since Monday. Suicide watch takes all of your time.
If you’re a parent, you know that sometimes bathing or other self-care gets put on the back burner. When you’re a special needs parent, it often gets pushed further back. If you don’t get respite, or you have to be with your child 24/7, taking a bath isn’t feasible.
So while I was laying there, actually soaking away a week’s worth of worries and scum, it dawned on me that I should share with you, my self-care tips when you have no time. These are serious things that when my child is in crisis mode, I can’t live without.
1.) Dry Shampoo
When I first heard of dry shampoo I couldn’t understand why anyone would need it. Then I realized, how many times I haven’t been able to take fifteen minutes away from my child to wash my hair. In the event that you have to leave the house for a therapy appointment, or worse yet, an emergency room visit, you don’t want greasy, nasty hair. At that moment, you feel horrible enough. You don’t need another thing to weigh you down. So grab some dry shampoo. Trust me. It works and in a pinch, you’ll just feel better.
2.) Baby Wipes
I think from the time we have babies, baby wipes should always remain in our homes. They’re good for so many things. These made my list because let’s face it, if you don’t have time to wash your hair, then you don’t have time to shower or bathe. Break out the baby wipes. In a matter of minutes, you can wash down your body, which will help you to feel better. Also, you don’t want to stink if you have to leave the house.
3.) Facial Wipes
When you’re worn out and your face is feeling and looking greasy, you want to clean it. You don’t have time to fuss around with facial products. However, if you have cleansing or toning facial wipes on hand, you can quickly clean away that dirt and oil. (Hey, it might keep you from breaking out from the stress too!)
4.) Mini Toothbrushes
Okay, so I really don’t know what these are actually called. They’re tiny toothbrushes with toothpaste in them. You can find them at the Dollar Tree, and there’s actually a bunch of different brands. All I know is when I can’t leave my child’s side, and my mouth tastes like butt, and my teeth feel gross, these things are a Godsend. Keep them on hand, you’ll thank me for it.
FOUR things. That’s it!
These four things are my personal arsenal for when my son is in crisis mode. (Side note, COFFEE! I mean, I’m never without that, so I didn’t feel the need to add it.) If your life is similar to ours, then stock up on these items. Self care is important, but we don’t always have time for it. These save time, and will make you physically feel better.
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