Hooray, hooray! The kids are back to school. Summer was long and you may have neglected the things that you do specifically for YOU. Maybe you haven’t put your own needs on your list for a very long time – perhaps not at all – but now you have an opportunity, while adjusting the daily calendar, to pencil in some you time. We have some ideas to help you get centered, feel cared for and get the attention you need, from yourself.
Regular exercise
Chances are that your health and wellness routine may have slipped into the abyss of caring for your family. Just 30 minutes out of your schedule to focus on your physical health can make a difference in your overall feelings of well being. Walking, yoga or power lifting…maybe try a new class and make new friends! It will reduce stress and help keep you happy as you power through rest of the day’s to-do list.
Daily meditation
There are many ways to practice meditation. The simplest is to just sit in a comfortable, quiet spot and listen to your breathing for 20 minutes. Your thoughts will continue to race but stick with it. You will soon feel centered and calm. It can help in reducing stress and can help keep you focused all day long.
Schedule some free time
Sometimes, we need to work frivolity into the daily grind. Go to a new restaurant, listen to your favorite music, see a matinee, go to a park and watch the trees move in the wind, or wander around your house and let your mind wander while wearing your favorite socks. This fun free time can replenish your creative coffers and have you seeing things in a new perspective.
There’s no time like the present to pencil a little self-care into the daily grind. We hope these suggestions inspire you to give yourself the “me time” you deserve!