Mum, take care of yourself

Jennie is one of the mums selected for Micke Gunnarsson's 'Time for Me-Time' competition.

– This is a memory I'll cherish for life, says Jennie.

For the mums reading this, here's a question straight from the heart: when was the last time you simply sat down to reflect on life, your health, or did something nice for yourself? It's okay to show that you're tired and worn out, to ask for help, and to be vulnerable. Children are a wonderful gift, but let's be honest, they're also perhaps life's greatest challenge, on every level.
Great Earth ambassador Micke Gunnarsson @mickegunnarsson humbly highlights this in a project he calls 'Time for Me-Time'.

When Jennie, a 39-year-old mother of two from Gothenburg, felt completely exhausted by everything life was throwing at her last autumn, she entered Micke's competition.
– One day, while I was resting, I had a missed call. It took a minute before I recognised the voice on the voicemail.
Oh my goodness, it was Micke! I was so moved my lower lip was trembling. I've never won a competition before, and this was something truly special, says Jennie.

This opportunity came as a gift from above in Jennie's life, and it kick-started a positive spiral in several ways.
– Micke has written on several occasions about the importance of being 'carried', and that really resonated with me. It was so necessary for me to be lifted up and to feel supported. I've felt alone many times. And perhaps this appealed to me so much because I've finally lifted my head up, says Jennie.

Upon arrival at the Ronneby Brunnshotellet, Jennie and her friend checked into a large, beautiful room. They received a gift from Micke, his book along with a handwritten personal letter, and access to all the hotel's facilities. They also received a bag of products from Great Earth, specially tailored to their needs after they took the needs analysis test.
– We met Micke, and it was lovely to talk to him, but also very important for me. It was also nice to just listen and take everything in when he spoke with my friend. I'm normally quite chatty, but here I needed quiet time to just absorb it all.
Jennie explains that she's concerned about the Swedish culture where we find it difficult to ask for help, and also to dare to show our vulnerability. And how important it is that we support each other.
– Not just by friends and family, but also allowing other people to support us. So much happens in life, especially between the ages of 25-45.
These two days changed Jennie's life. Getting to pause, reflect, heal, and make time for recovery.
– You can't speed-date recovery, she says.

Jennie's tips for other mums

• Don't speed-date your recovery. Let it take up space. I waited far too long. And respect that it can be overwhelming.

• If you have the chance, choose one thing you know gives you energy. Crocheting for an hour or taking a walk in the woods.

• If you're completely exhausted, take a step back.

• Schedule your time, for example, 'mum's half-hour', and don't compromise on it.

Do you want to apply for the Mum Project too? Read more here.