Dianza Al Azem, educator and sexologist: 'Mothers must abandon the false belief that self-care is having an afternoon for themselves'
Dianza Al Azem advocates for mothers to prioritize self-care beyond just occasional breaks, highlighting the societal pressures that hinder their wellbeing.
Dianza Al Azem, an educator and sexologist, has published a new book titled "Madres quemadas" which explores the challenges that mothers face in prioritizing their own well-being. She argues that many mothers are exhausted not only from their increased responsibilities but also due to the societal expectation that they should self-sacrifice. In her view, the notion that self-care can merely consist of a little time to themselves overlooks the deeper societal issues that contribute to their burnout.
In "Madres quemadas", Al Azem employs illustrations and diagrams to illustrate the often-unspoken struggles of motherhood, including the guilt mothers feel when they take time away from their children for self-care. These feelings are compounded by a societal indifference that often leaves mothers feeling unsupported and overwhelmed. The book aims to provide mothers with the tools and perspectives necessary to foster their own wellbeing amidst their demanding roles.
Al Azem’s work serves as both an acknowledgment of the exhaustion faced by many mothers today, as well as a call to action to reassess what self-care truly means. By encouraging mothers to rethink their approach to self-care—not as a luxury but as a necessary aspect of their health—she seeks to empower them to break free from guilt and find more balance in their lives. This emphasis on true self-care can potentially lead to healthier family dynamics and improved mental health for mothers in the long term.