Last updated: 9.6.24: Self-care has become the new buzzword. The internet and social media are inundated with self-care messages. As ‘busy’ Scholarly Mamas, it’s great that we don’t have to look far for reminders about the importance of self-care. But what about Dads? Don’t they need to practice self-care too? In this blog post, I want to talk about why it’s important for Dads to prioritise self-care this Father’s Day and beyond.
By the way, if you prefer to listen to the related podcast episode on this topic, please feel free to use the player below:
What is Self-Care and Should Dads Care?
Self-care refers to any activity that we engage in to maintain and nourish our health, including mental, physical and emotional wellbeing.
The World Health Organisation defines it as “the ability of individuals, families and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and to cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a healthcare provider”.
While it may seem like an obvious and important concept, self-care often gets cast aside for more pressing priorities such as work, family and the everyday pressures of life. Nevertheless, there are several reasons why Dads should prioritise self-care.
Honestly, it feels like women have become the focus of this wellness movement. I get it. As a Mama of three, I work hard to look after my family. But I know from experience that I can’t pour from an empty cup, so I understand well the need to practice and prioritise self-care.
However, it’s important to point out the importance of self-care for Dads. There are so many Dads out there working tirelessly to support families and raise kids from toddlers to teenagers. They don’t often get the credit they deserve. These committed fathers are also cooking meals to nourish tummies, changing nappies and wiping bottoms, plus everything else in between.
So being a wife and Mama of three, and watching my husband father our boys with love and fortitude, I believe self-care matters for Dads too!
The Importance of Self-Care in Fatherhood
In honour of Father’s Day, I wanted to take a moment to shine the spotlight on all the amazing Dads. I’m talking about the ones who show up every day and do the all-important job of parenting. I have had the dual privilege of being raised by one (my dad) and raising three boys with another (my husband). I feel so incredibly blessed.
While we show our appreciation for the Dads in our lives this Father’s Day, let’s also encourage them to look after themselves too! This is especially important for those Dads that don’t see it as a priority. You know, those Dads who work hard to look after others, out of love, care and responsibility but who don’t always take the time to prioritise themselves. We love you for all of that because we know it comes naturally for you. But making your self-care a priority has to be intentional. You have to look after yourselves so you can be in a position to look after those who depend on you.
So Dads, I’m speaking directly to you for this one!
There are many reasons why you should prioritise self-care. I’ve listed six of the most important reasons below. These are general benefits to anyone who prioritises self-care, but can be especially relevant to busy, hands-on Dads.
1. Daddy Self-Care Improves Emotional Well-being
As a Dad, when you are able to invest time in your own self-care, this can have a major impact on your emotional well-being. This can help you live with greater optimism and positivity. Well, my husband has to be the King of optimism. My dad isn’t far off that either. They both try to see the good in life and in people, which I love. So I know they are not doing too badly in the self-care department! Hahaha. I’d better take some notes!
But seriously, if you prioritise self-care, it will help you to feel happier, more satisfied and better able to cope with the challenges that life throws your way.
I’m constantly amazed at the resilience of my husband. No matter the hurdles he’s faced in his life, he has been able to overcome. Perhaps, setting time aside to do the things that bring him joy, fulfilment and relaxation is one of his secrets to building resilience.
So even taking a small amount of time per week to nurture your physical, emotional and mental health can be hugely beneficial on your overall emotional well-being and outlook on life. Plus, if you’re raising boys, it sets a good example for them too!
2. Self-Care for Dads Promotes Healthy Relationships
Self-care can help you to be the best Dad and person you can be, which in turn as a positive impact on all your relationships. Taking regular time to invest in your personal health and well-being will allow you to be happier and more stable as an individual. This will allow you to be more patient and accommodating with others and therefore have better quality relationships.
I must say, my husband’s patience has definitely rubbed off on me over the years. You see, patience isn’t one of my strengths (although in some things I can be very much so) but it definitely requires some intention on my part! Hahaha. Hey, don’t judge me! I’m just a Scholarly Mama doing her best to stay well on this journey of Scholarly Motherhood.
3. Dads Who Prioritise Self-Care Decrease The Risk of Burnout
We all lead busy lives and regular investment in self-care for you as a Dad is necessary to avoid burnout.
You should find a form of self-care that works for you. This could be taking a walk (or run), spending time with family, getting a massage, watching a movie, reading a book, listening to a podcast, catching up with friends or playing a sport.
Whatever self-care activity floats your boat, you should commit to engaging in it regularly. It will help you to manage stressful seasons of life more effectively and prevent burnout.
4. Dads Who Look After Themselves Are More Present
Spending time engaging in self-care will allow you to become more present and engaged with what’s happening around you. You are likely to gain a better understanding of what it takes to maintain good mental, physical and emotional health. This will increase your awareness of your own emotional well-being, which has the potential to impact your health and wellness overall. Of course, this has countless benefits for your family, as a truly present Dad is the best kind.
I know this well, thanks to both my amazing Dad and my wonderful husband.
5. Better Performance For Self-Caring Dads
Self-care is often seen as indulgent, when in actual fact it can have a much broader impact. Looking after yourself can help you maintain your health, which in turn will allow you to perform better in all aspects of your life, in work, home, family, and play. It can help you be more creative and inspire your kids to do the same. And who doesn’t want to win all round, eh?
6. Increased Quality of Life for Dads Who Prioritise Self-Care
The overarching benefit of self-care is that it increases our quality of life. By helping you to be healthier, have better relationships and be more present, self-care allows you to live a more fulfilling life as a Dad.
So to the Dad reading this, we hope you are spoilt this Father’s Day and are showered with all the love you deserve. But more importantly, we want you to know that we appreciate you. We appreciate you so much, that we wanted to share this little reminder to also look after yourself too! It’s great that you have so much love to give but we want to make sure you reserve some of that love for yourself as well because you 100% deserve it!
Enjoyed this blog post? Why not share it with a Dad you know this Father’s Day!
Until next time Mama, I’m sending lots of love and gratitude your way :-).
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