As a busy parent, there’s no question that you deserve a break. But you only have so much time to give yourself some much-needed self-care. What can you do to pamper, unwind, and restore your well-being?
Acts of self-care are an excellent way to prevent mental and physical burnout. How can you look after others (especially young children) if you can’t look after yourself? When you’re raising a family, it’s tough to strike a balance between the two—but it’s necessary.
You don’t have to wait until Mother’s Day to plan a day of pampering. Consider these 11 ways to pamper yourself:
Take Care Of Your Body
Does this sound familiar? You’re so busy scheduling your child’s next dental cleaning, doctor appointment, or eye exam that you forget to book your own. Take some time to make appointments for a few check-ups that you’ve been putting off.
Our overall health affects how we feel every day. The connection between oral health and the rest of your body is deeper than you might think. To help you feel your best, make your health a priority.
Plan A Spa Day
Nothing is more relaxing than planning some alone time at your favourite nails and spa. Whether you want a deep-tissue massage, manicure, or a pedicure, now’s the time. Even if you fall asleep on the massage table, that’s okay! You can catch up on your beauty sleep, and once you wake up, you’ll feel completely relaxed.
Cook Your Favorite Meal
You’re used to making whatever the picky eaters in your family will tolerate. But when’s the last time you made something just for you? Dig out that old recipe for seafood chowder or your grandmother’s lasagna. Play some music, forget about the dishes, and simply focus on enjoying your culinary creation.
Sleep!
Pampering yourself doesn’t have to be exciting. In fact, it can be the exact opposite. Curl up in bed with your favorite blanket, dim the lights, and let yourself drift away into dreamland.
Grab Lunch With A Friend
Do you remember the last time you met up with someone for a bite to eat? It might feel like it’s been years. The next time you have a couple of hours to yourself, call up an old friend and visit one of your favorite restaurants.
Order Food & Watch A Movie
Who says that treat days need to be fancy? After a long day of changing diapers and preparing meals, sometimes all you want to do is kick your feet up and indulge in a cheat meal. Put on a pair of sweatpants, order takeout, and watch one of your favorite flicks.
Buy Something Special
If you have a chunk of change kicking around in your wallet, why not spend it on yourself instead of on the kids? Half the fun of shopping is browsing for the perfect new purse, comfy sweater, or pair of shoes. And there’s nothing to feel guilty about. You deserve it!
Get Your Hair Done
When you spend your days caring for a little one, your appearance is often the last thing on your mind. Getting your hair cut and colored can be the perfect thing to make you feel pampered and pretty.
Take A Bath
Light a candle, dim the lights, and grab a bag of bath salts; it’s time for a long, warm soak in the tub. You’ll feel the stress melt right off your shoulders. If your home isn’t as quiet as you’d like, turn on some relaxing music while you soak your stress away. A one of best way to pamper yourself.
Journal
On a busy day, your mind is filled with thoughts. Set aside the time to journal so that you can find some mental clarity. You might fill the page with your thoughts, ideas, or dreams. Or, maybe you want to organize a to-do list to reduce your stress levels.
Make A Tasty Drink
Many parents can’t get through the morning (or the rest of the day) without a cup of caffeine. But you might rush to make your brew and gulp it down instead of enjoying it.
Take the time to prepare yourself a truly decadent drink. Buy yourself a new type of coffee or tea to make it extra special. When it’s ready, drink it somewhere different than usual, like in the backyard or on your front steps.
While you sip your hot cup beverage, take a moment to appreciate your surroundings. Sit outside and feel the sun and wind on your skin. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and relax.
Treating yourself is simpler than you might think. All you need is a few hours away from the kids to de-stress, unwind, and pamper. No matter how you decide to spend your “me” time, we hope that you enjoy it!
