We see it everywhere, on Social Media, at the drs office, in magazines (hey, I read them while I stand in line at the grocery store), family group texts…. everyone is stressing the urgency and the importance in creating some more “me” time or indulging in some self care. When I first heard the word SELF CARE, I almost threw up. Like what, so I have to do more than brush my teeth, wash my face, shower and get in my green smoothies?! I thought it was a ploy brought on by peeps that didn’t have kids or maybe all the big companies got together and want us to invest in something I didn’t know about. GUESS WHAT… I was wrong… in some ways at least. Self care is really super important! And it doesn’t have to cost a lot or take up a lot of time. You don’t even have to be alone for “me” time – I don’t know why I keep putting quotes around ME…. BUT the point is, as long as you are setting some time to do what you love and what you need to “fill up your tank” (there they are again…), you are not only helping yourself or your loved ones but you could also inspire others that might need a little nudge nudge to take time for themself.
Sure running off to the Spa for a relaxing massage and facial sounds amazing. Even going for a more affordable mani/pedi is great, but let’s be honest, that is not always doable. A simple, quiet bath will do. Even at 10:30 at night. I’ve created a little Spa oasis in my own bathroom. I put on a masque – you can find them at pretty much any store these days or feel free to make your own. I throw some hair treatment in my hair and sit in a robe scrolling Pinterest… this relaxes me… don’t judge. You can grab a book, or put on your favorite tv show, preferably not something your kids watch… and just RELAX. Even for just 10-15 minutes, spark up your CALM app and just Quiet. That. Mind. You will feel like a million bucks afterwards.
It’s not everyday that I get time to myself. So on the more crazy days I find activities that fuel my soul with my kids in tow. Whether that be a walk along the beach, visiting my favorite smoothie place or even (get this) going through the Starbucks drive through!! One of my favorite things to do is pile my kids in the car, right around nap time or even after a play date, go through the Starbucks drive through while they sleep and enjoy my coffee in peace and quiet. I know people that don’t have kiddos may find this a tad depressing, but honestly it is one of the BEST feelings! Sometimes I drive up and down neighborhoods dreaming of homes I will buy and how I will fix them up. LOL Try it sometime or please continue doing it if you already do. I know one day I will honestly miss this. Speaking of coffee, I made a little “Self Care” rule for myself that I think has also done wonders… sit, sip and enjoy your coffee. A lot of us brew a cup, and chug it while we run around the kitchen or the house packing lunches, getting the family ready and jotting down our daily to dos. My rule is … if I cant sit and savor then wait for later. It sounds like torture, but if I really really need it THAT badly and know it is going to be one of those crazy mornings I set my alarm 15 minutes earlier to allow me that time to regroup and enjoy my cup!
Another great way to practice self care is to work out. AGAIN, this does not have to be at a big, fancy gym. You do not need to hire childcare to get in your workout. Even though all that sounds fabulous. Do what you can do for you! I always stress that in this season of my life, leaving the home to workout does not workout for me. Time, money, childcare, schedules it just does not permit. In a few years when all my kids are in school, it may! Who knows… I’ll let you know then… BUT right. now. I LOVE working out at home. YouTube is stacked with videos, Beachbody and other online providers offer programs that are literally LIFE CHANGING, trust me!!! For under $10 a month you can get fit, at home, in just 30 minutes or less! That is the amount of time it used to take me to get my kids ready for Kids Club at our local gym.
Whatever brings you joy… today it was cleaning out my kids toys(!!)… DO IT. You, your family, your friends, and everyone watching need that. Self care is more than a ploy to invest in the next hottest thing, it is not only for people with kids or without kids, its not even only for adults… kids just already spend their time doing what brings them joy LOL! It is a necessity to keep us going and keep us happy!
I’d love to hear what you do to indulge in a little me time.
