How To Enjoy 10 Minutes of Me-Time
No matter how organized or prepared you were pre-pregnancy, parenthood makes finding “me-time” nearly impossible. As challenging as it may be to carve out 10 minutes for Y-O-U, self-care is really important for your overall health and happiness. Stress can have negative effects on your body, your mind, and your behavior, which can make everyday tasks (especially parenting-related ones) more difficult.
Whether it’s during your baby’s nap time or while walking through the aisles of the grocery store, here are four ways to enjoy 10 minutes of “me-time”:
Meditate
Trying to balance all the facets of everyday life can cause things to get pretty wild in the mind of a parent. Ten minutes of meditation can help combat stress, help you sleep better, feel happier, and be more present. And one of the best things about meditation is that it can be done almost anywhere. If you’re having trouble quieting you mind on your own, there are plenty of podcasts, YouTube videos, or apps that give guided meditations. Try out a couple and find which ones work for you.
Journal
The days are long, but the years are short when you have a baby on your hands. There are so many firsts to experience and cherish: his or her first smile, first tooth, first word. Taking ten minutes to journal will help you savor all of the little moments that make each day so special, and remind you why being a parent is so rewarding. Journaling at night can also help you unwind from an exhausting day and prepare you for a better night’s sleep.
Listen to music
Never underestimate the power of music. In the same way that a lullaby can help soothe your crying baby, music can calm you down. Jam out to your favorite band during a car ride or pop headphones in your ears while getting ready in the morning. Starting your day off with some good tunes can improve your spirits.
Treat yourself
Caffeine may be your primary food group nowadays (mommy fuel, anyone?), but it’s rare that you actually get to enjoy your tea or coffee while it’s still hot. Next time you’re out and about (without a baby in the backseat), stop at your favorite coffee shop. Go inside and order a hot drink and treat (for here!) and enjoy it in peace.
It’s difficult to find kid-free time, and when you do, it can be tempting to take a power nap or shower for the first time since Tuesday. But don’t forget the importance of self-care. Taking a little time for yourself refreshes and re-energizes you, allowing you to think more clearly, make better decisions, and be a better parent.
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