Moms, Find Quiet Time in Your Day!
Time to mellow out, chill, decompress, whatever you like to call it. It comes down to a quiet time to reflect inward. But finding that much needed time is a difficult task. Here are some ways to sneak it into the day.
Get up earlier.
You only need a matter of 5-10 minutes to reflect on the day ahead. If you get up a little before the hustle and bustle you can enjoy your coffee or tea with a little peace and quiet.
Take your lunch alone.
Lunchtimes can be a great way to decompress. Unfortunately many times they are taken with co-workers and spent talking about work. Take this time to yourself and enjoy a renewed energy when you get back on the job. Sometimes this means eating out in your car so you can be alone. But getting away from the stress of talking about work will help to rejuvenate your spirit.
SAHMs and WAHMs take a lunch break.
It's the law in most states that workers take a lunch and a coffee break and so should moms! I know you "don't have time", so you have to create it. Growing up my brother and I, and my own kids, stopped taking naps shortly after the age of 1. We all grew up knowing there was a ½ an hour to an hour of quiet play/rest time every afternoon. It was at a scheduled time so there was no surprise and it keeps Mom sane.
Use a timer.
When you are at home and start feeling stressed or out of control, grab a timer. Teach the kids that until the timer goes off you aren't there. Set it for 5-10 minutes, have them play or watch a show and baring an emergency they aren't allowed to talk to you. Sit in your favorite spot and just relax with some deep breathing exercises. It will take a little bit of time for the kids to adjust, but having the visual of the timer will help them.
After work.
I know that when work is over you are anxious to run out the door. But consider what sitting quietly or walking alone for 10 minutes before you get into the car will do to calm your nerves and set a great start to your evening.
Wherever you can find extra time take it. You will be all the better for it. Remember that you are worth it. Decompressing is a major part of being able to deal with the day to day chores. When you are used to taking time for yourself you will find that you can cope with the extra things that come your way!
Copyright Val Selby, 2006 www.BusyMommaWellness.com.
Val is a personal trainer and fitness coach in Washington state. Her mission is to keep women informed on things that will help their health. Whether that is physical or mental, taking care of yourself should be your highest priority. Then you will be healthy and happy while taking care of your loved ones. Val is also the Wellness Coordinator here at Mom's Online Retreat.
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