Self-care

Talking positive wellbeing with the founder of Isabella & Us.

January 16, 2019

Lancashire-based Emma Cottam, 27, is wife to Chris and mummy to one-year-old Isabella. She’s a full-time photography teacher as well as being the founder of her own business, Isabella and Us.

Here, Emma tells us about the meaning behind her business and how it’s driven her to support and inspire other mums with their maternal mental health. In her contribution to #thebigselfcareshare she also talks about taking the time for herself and meeting her own needs.

Emma Cottam of Isabella & Us.

What’s brought you to where you are?

I set up Isabella and Us. when Isabella was four weeks old as I wanted to share my experiences with other mums and help them feel less alone. Through Isabella and Us. I promote positive wellbeing in parents and help to raise awareness of maternal mental health.

The business originally launched as an online gift shop and is the home of the Positive Wellbeing Zine for Mums. Issue 3 is now on pre-order and issues 4 and 5 are in progress. I love being a cheerleader for mothers and celebrating our parenting wins!

How would you define self-care?

Self-care for me means looking after myself and putting myself first when I need to. It’s something that I try and incorporate into every day as before having Isabella I never really made the time for it. But when I became a mum I very quickly realised that if I didn’t meet my own needs then I would be no good to anyone else.

How do you incorporate self-care into your daily routine?

Every day I make sure that I find some time for me, even if it’s just 5 minutes to sit, to enjoy a shower in peace or to watch my favourite TV program. I’m also trying to exercise more and eat better to help look after my body.

Every day I make sure that I find some time for me.

One of the best things I do for self-care is to think about what I’ve achieved each day and how I’ve been winning as a mummy.

Share a self-care tip, something that’s helped you on your path to being kinder to yourself.

My self-care tip would be to do something every month that’s for you! Whether it’s quality time with your partner or with friends, or just a long soak in the bath or getting your nails done, plan that time for you in!

What’s next for your business?

It’s an exciting time for Isabella & Us. and I’m getting 2019 off to a strong start by building my team and searching for brand enthusiasts. I’ve also launched a range of new products, started two blog series and can’t wait to distribute the next Positive Wellbeing Zine.

Thanks for taking part in #thebigselfcareshare, Emma, and for telling us more about what inspired you to create Isabella & Us. You can find out more about Emma by visiting Isabella & Us. on Instagram and the Isabella & Us. website.

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