Nourishment for Foster and Adoptive Parents

By the end of December, foster and adoptive parents can feel like we’ve crossed the finish line of a marathon—exhausted, depleted, and running on fumes. The presents are put away, the cookies are gone, the decorations are down—and often, so is our energy, mood, and attitude.

The day after Christmas, I found myself tired, cranky, and short on patience. Weeks of preparation and celebration had led to too much sugar, too little exercise, poor sleep, and neglected quiet time. I was struggling to regulate myself, which made it even harder to help my children—who, like many kids with trauma histories, tend to experience increased dysregulation during the holidays.

Every part of me was longing for a new beginning.

Word of the Year

Thankfully, January arrived—a natural invitation to start fresh. For several years now, I’ve prayerfully chosen a word of the year as a way to focus my intentions and growth. In past seasons, the Lord gave me abide and remain, both rooted in John 15:4–7.

This year, the word He placed on my heart was nourish.

At first, I wasn’t quite sure what He meant. But through prayer and time in Scripture, it became clear: nourishment is exactly what I—and perhaps many of us—need in this season.

According to dictionary.com, to nourish means:

1. To sustain with food or nutriment; supply what is necessary for life, health, and growth

2. To cherish, foster, or keep alive

3. To strengthen, build up, or promote

Biblically, nourishment goes beyond physical provision. It includes spiritual sustenance—growth through God’s Word, prayer, teaching, and intentional practices that deepen our faith.

Our whole being needs nourishment: body, mind, heart, soul, and spirit. Much like a mother nourishes her baby through feeding, comforting, swaddling, gentle words, and responsive care, we too must intentionally tend to every part of ourselves. True nourishment reaches deep into our souls.

Nourished Parents

Foster and adoptive parents, in particular, need holistic nourishment. In Matthew 22:37–39 (NLT), Jesus says:

“You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind… and love your neighbor as yourself.”

To love God and others in this way—including the children entrusted to us—we must care for our whole selves. Nourishment isn’t selfish; it’s foundational. Let’s explore practical ways to nurture ourselves so we can, in turn, nourish others with God’s love.

The Physical Body

Scripture reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (NIV) says:

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit…? Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

For our bodies to function well, they need care. While this isn’t medical advice, it is a reminder that what we consume matters. Fewer processed foods and excess sugar, more nutrient-rich foods, adequate sleep, and regular movement can make a significant difference in how we feel.

Even a daily walk—especially outdoors—can nourish not only our bodies but our minds and souls as well, reminding us of God’s creativity and presence.

Our Spirit

Our spirits are nourished by God’s Word. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 4:4 (ESV):

“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”

Caring for our spirit means intentionally tending our relationship with Jesus. Daily time in Scripture sustains and strengthens our faith. Without a steady intake of God’s Word, spiritual fatigue sets in—and loving others well becomes far more difficult.

Hearts and Relationships

When I think about the heart, I think about relationships—our connection with God and with the people we love. Relationships, like plants, require care. When neglected, they begin to wilt.

1 Peter 4:8 (NIV) reminds us:

“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins.”

This year, consider how you might intentionally nurture your most important relationships:

• Schedule a monthly date night with your spouse

• Spend one-on-one time with each child when possible

• Meet a trusted friend or fellow foster or adoptive parent for coffee

When we invest in relationships, life feels richer and more grounded.

Our Mind

The old saying, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste,” still rings true. What we allow into our minds matters.

How much time do we spend mindlessly scrolling? A Stanford Lifestyle Medicine article reported that increased screen use among adults may harm learning, memory, and mental health. Excessive screen time can also disrupt sleep and increase anxiety.

We can nourish our minds by decreasing screen time and intentionally engaging in activities that stimulate and strengthen our brains.

Brain Food Ideas:

• Read physical books instead of digital ones

• Create—crochet, draw, journal, write

• Play board games as a family

• Do crossword puzzles from a book rather than a screen

• Study Scripture from a printed Bible

Just as important is what we think about. Philippians 4:8 (ESV) encourages us:

“Whatever is true… honorable… just… lovely… commendable… think about these things.”

This year, consider turning off the news more often, setting aside screens, and feeding your mind what is good and life-giving. 

Nourishing the Soul

Our soul encompasses our mind, will, and emotions. Since we’ve already addressed the mind, let’s focus on emotional health.

God gave us emotions, but like weeds in a garden, they require regular tending. Left unattended, they can grow out of control.

Foster and adoptive parents often carry high levels of stress. Because we are parenting children with dysregulated nervous systems, it is essential that we tend to our own regulation first.

Nourishing our souls can include:

• Nutritious food and adequate rest

• Regular movement

• Time in nature

• Solitude and quiet with the Lord

Psalm 23:2–3 (ESV) paints a beautiful picture:

“He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul…”

Consider simplifying your schedule this year and intentionally setting aside time with the Lord to allow your soul to be restored. 

Holistic Nourishment

When we intentionally nourish our whole selves, we are better equipped to walk in the calling God has placed on our lives. He has entrusted us with children who carry big needs and heavy stories. Caring for ourselves enables us to care for them more faithfully and sustainably.

In 1 Timothy 4, Paul reminds us that good servants of Christ are nourished by the truths of the faith and sound teaching. While physical training has value, godliness holds value for all things.

As we step into 2026—and as the world rushes toward new diets and exercise plans—let’s commit to holistic nourishment, prioritizing not only our bodies but also our spirit, heart, mind, and soul.

You are worth being nourished. And your home and family will be blessed because of it.