What?!? Huh? What are these? Essential parts of daily life, and so very important, that’s what. But, as a full time job holding, business building, school attending, extremely busy, single mom of two active boys in a long term relationship, how do I find the time to rejuvenate myself?
It’s not easy, that’s for sure. And sometimes I do wonder if I am going to actually make it. In times like these, I try to focus on finding even just a few minutes a day to decompress and recharge to keep on living the joyful life. Here are some things that I do – and the best thing is that they are all FREE!
- Soak in the tub for 15 minutes (minimum) after the kids are in bed…candles, soft music, maybe book, but mostly just the quiet.
- Take a morning or evening walk – solo!
- Lie on the floor and imagine yourself filled up to the top of your head with iced tea (or whatever your favorite beverage is). Then envision yourself being slowly emptied, relaxing each muscle as the iced tea drains ever-so-slowly out your toes. Let it last at least 10 minutes, and breathe deeply along the way, trying to empty your mind.
- Do a Yoga video in your living room (you know you have one!)
- Go grocery shopping by yourself - and take time to browse.
- Take time to read a book, magazine, catalog or newspaper before bed…NOT on a computer, Nook or Kindle…actual paper printed materials here…there is nothing relaxing about a computer – it’s like work! (Plus, I get my news fix off the 'net during the day!)
- Turn off the radio during your commute – the quiet car can be soothing. Put your phone on silent too. Take some audible deep breaths.
- Every once in a while, just say ‘Screw it!’ to the housework waiting for you and just SIT DOWN!
- Teach your kids how to do housework – it gets done much quicker and they learn very valuable life skills.
- Plan time by yourself now and then – might not happen every week, but at least try.
- Trade time with another neighborhood mom or friend - the kids can have play time, and while they are gone, you can either get your things around the house done without being a referee and entertainer, or just take a nap.
- Take a few minutes each morning just after your alarm goes off to meditate, pray, stretch, plan, whatever you need to do. Enjoy that bit of quiet time by yourself.
- And, if all else fails…take a book into the bathroom, lock the door and take 5 minutes just for you! (No phones either!)
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| Not me, but wish it was! |
Your list is cool. Oh by the way, I usually drink a glass of water early in the morning to start the day right. :)
ReplyDeleteI do too, and didn't even think to add it to the list. Thanks for the suggestion!! :)
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