As a mum, let alone any parent, it feels nearly impossible to have some time to yourself, right? Not only do you have the kids, but you have work, you have a household to run (including chores), you have to tend to your spouse, and let’s not forget your friends and family. It’s a lot, and it can be overwhelming.
Being a parent is one of the toughest jobs in the world and there’s no doubt about it that it can be insanely stressful to the point of a mental breakdown. But how can you destress and unwind? While there isn’t some perfect equation, these are some ideas to help you hold on just a little longer.
Find some “me time” to have each day
Everyone, no matter what age they are, will need to have some “me time”. This includes your little ones as well, as they need to learn to find themselves as entertainment. Maybe your time can happen during your children’s nap time, or when you put them in bed for the night.
Just try to give yourself at least 30 minutes of “me time” each day. Just do whatever you want, as long as it helps you feel better. Many mums and parents, they’ll nap, read, exercise, or watch shows. Give this to yourself, you’re human, you need it.
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Play with your children
Sounds odd, right? Well, depending on the age of your little ones, playing with them could be exactly what you need. Why not let them play with you, something that you love? For instance, you love to go out and do some gardening. For your child, they will consider this as a form of playtime. You get to spend time with them, they get to have fun, and you get to pretty up the garden, it’s a win! Other ideas can include puzzles or even playing video games together.
Give yourself a Spa Day
You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg just to go to a nice spa. Why not bring the whole spa day at home? This can include buying a plush Richard Haworth bathrobe and towel set. Why not play some relaxing music, take a long bath, and have some champagne? Even if you can’t afford a full spa day, at least give yourself an hour or two of being alone and enjoying the self-care you can give yourself. Even something as short as this can help your mentality out.
Look into other ways to de-stress
Being around friends can be one of the greatest ways to just really destress and unwind. So never neglect trying out this method. Usually, hanging out with friends can be a great way to have some of that “me-time” while still getting to interact with friends and keep those connections strong as well.
So, look into doing this, as this is a great way to give yourself the chance to let go. Never feel guilty for needing some time to destress, parenting is tough, and having little to no time to yourself can actually lead to burnout.
I am not a parent yet but my brother and sister in law had a baby earlier this year and I can see the impact on them. However, I support them as much as I can, I have even baby sat a couple of times just to give them some time together and alone time. I agree that it is so important! Thank you for sharing this I am sure it will help many other parents xx
Author
Aww, that’s lovely to hear you help them out. Parents need some alone time. It’s easy to forget what you did before having kids, when you’re in the midst of it all.
I love this! It’s so important that parents take that time for themselves too, it’s so crucial for looking after yourself. I love the idea of making sure you maintain connections too! Thank you so much for sharing x
Author
It’s so important, but also difficult to carve out time to make it happen. Toddlers are very demanding!
I was far better keeping up a regular self-care schedule before I became a mom. It’s hard to try and fit in the time and space to really give yourself that break. I like the gardening idea. I don’t garden (but will one day), but for those who do, it would satisfy doing something for yourself while spending quality time with your child. That’s a really great idea!
This is so true, I was near my breaking point at some point. My 3-year old now goes to crèche, some may call it kindergarten I think. It gives me about 6-7 hours to focus on other things. Mummys need a break for sure. A break doesn’t mean we don’t love our children, may I add.
Author
All mummies definitely need a break. I am glad you manage to get one!
It’s so hard to find time to yourself when you’re a parent! sometimes I take 30 minutes to play piano while he naps. But it’s so hard to plan as sometimes he doesn’t nap, or he wakes up if I put him down and I don’t get my me time!
Corinne x
Author
I totally agree. You can never predict it! This week I’ve had to drag my little one out from under the covers for nursery, but on my days off she was up at 7 am – typical!
These are great tips. I often find myself feeling guilty when I try to make my me time a priority but I am also reminded that I can only be a great mother to my daughter if I take care of myself first. Thank you for sharing!
Author
The mum guilt is real, but it’s so important we take time and overcome those feelings.
Having me-time is most important in being a parent. It helps to gain energy and have a good mind.
Author
Definetely.
I love this post! Definitely check out the book Horizontal Parenting –it contains fun games you can play with your children without having to move (which is perfect when you’re energy level is LOW).
Crystal | http://www.amazingbaby.app
Author
This sounds like an amazing book – will check it out.
These a good tips. I. Like the first one the most. Doing things and spending time today is a good way to release stress. Thank you for sharing.
Author
Thank you for reading, glad you liked the tips.
It is important to make time for yourself as a parent to reduce stress and avoid a burn out. Thank you for sharing.
Lauren x
Author
It’s so important and you can function better when you take time out.
So important to find some time for yourself. Thanks for the reminder!
Author
No problem – I need a reminder every now and then!