“Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” – Eleanor Brownn
As parents, the demands of parenting, working, volunteering, etc. can weigh us down. Often times we put ourselves at the bottom of the list when, in reality, taking care of ourselves first would actually allow us to serve our loved ones with even greater energy and focus. Making space in our busy schedules each day for “me time” is worth it, even if only for ten minutes. Here are some ways you can squeeze in time to refresh yourself:
- Wake up before everyone else in the house. Enjoy your cup of coffee in the quiet of the morning while reading inspirational books, journaling your thoughts, or simply watching the sunrise.
- Refrain from picking up the phone to check social media during your waiting times at the bank, doctor’s office, or after school pick-up. Instead, keep a book or small notepad with you, and take those moments to enjoy reading your favorite author, doodle drawings, or brainstorm items for your bucket list.
- After the kids are in bed, take an epsom salt bath, and add an essential oil such as lavender to the tub for an at-home spa experience. If you don’t have time to soak in the tub, fill a small wash tub with epsom salt and hot water to soak your feet in while you watch television or scroll Instagram at night.
- Grab your tennis shoes and hit the road. Taking a walk around the block or a hike through the woods will renew your senses and re-energize you.
- Go to the beach and watch the windsurfers, turtles or waves. Soak it in and get your Vitamin D while you’re at it.
- Meet your friends at a local waterfall, coffee shop or the movies. Time with friends will allow you to just be you, and not “mom” or “dad.”
- Plan a trip to the local farmers market. Taking your time to choose fresh veggies or fruits alone is a fun way to get some “me time” (and involves less begging as well).
