A transformative retreat for mothers of special needs children
Why Do I need a Break?
Calling All special needs moms! According to the Child Mind Institute, “Parents who are the main caregivers for those with special needs can be at risk for burnout, especially if they don’t have enough support themselves. Symptoms of burnout include anxiety, depression, feeling tired, and feeling cut off from other people.” It has also been found that special needs moms have a similar stress level to that of combat soldiers. So why take a break by joining us at the Break & Breathe retreat for mothers of special needs children you ask, read on to find out.
Why all mothers of special needs children need to take a self-care break
After suffering bouts of depression, anxiety, and panic attacks, the most valuable tool an autism parent I’ve learned is not to neglect my mental health, my physical health, and my soul. I learned that there was a lot of grief and trauma connected to this autism journey in which I never gave myself the opportunity to process, like a combat soldier I continued to just fight through. I used to associate self-care with going to a spa, getting my hair done or getting a pedicure. While those are wonderful elements of self-care it’s not the entire meaning of it. We associate self-care with “treating ourselves.” Often our bodies, minds, and emotions are communicating to us that something is needed. If we ignore ourselves constantly one or more of these will present themselves in unhealthy ways. In my own life, self-care has given me clarity, and a deeper connection with myself. In turn, I can show up as the truest version of myself around others.
I now know I no longer need permission to take time for myself. My needs are valid and a priority. One of the things I had to remind myself was that I’m not just an autistic mother, I am a woman, I am a daughter, a wife, a friend, and a woman with a purpose. I realized I was not only limiting myself but my child. At the beginning of 2022, I broke my ankle, leading to a colon cancer diagnosis within 3 months. During my recovery, I created a retreat for us warrior moms called “Break and Breathe, take a break before you break.” This is a very special 3 days where we learn valuable self-care tools and create connections and support with one another.
The demands of being a special needs parent can seem never-ending. It is a journey, by carving out a small amount of time for yourself every day, it can provide you with the energy to continue your day or even rest better.
This “me time” doesn’t have to be one big block. It can be broken up into smaller pieces. Take the scenic route home and enjoy the view when you can spare a few extra minutes. Allow yourself to disconnect from your caretaking routine so that you can rest and recharge.
For me these are the following methods that have worked in my life; meditation, breath work, yoga, walking, dance class, eating healthy, and communal support. In addition to these important daily rituals, I do find the time to care for my hair and nails. Let’s be honest a spa treatment is always welcomed!
So join us on September 29th-October 1st, 2023 for our second annual BREAK & BREATHE event, your future self will thank you for it, in the meantime, don’t forget to Break & Breathe.
