Taking Care of Yourself When You Don’t Have Much Time #RechargeME

When I first became a mother, I remember everyone telling me, “Remember! Taking care of yourself first is important.” I heard the words, but didn’t really understand them until I had 4 kids and felt like pulling my hair out. I realized that I need to eat the right foods, get enough sleep, exercise and get out of the house without kids once in a while.

Put Your Mask on First

Do you take the time to take care of yourself before you take care of others? Even if you do not have children, we all have responsibilities whether it’s at work or with family. We need to put ourselves first sometimes.

There will be times when we can’t, but I believe that if you take care of yourself on a regular basis, you will be better equipped to handle those times when you can’t put yourself first. Stress is better handled on a well body.

Taking Care of Yourself Ideas

Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be a long complicated procedure. You don’t need to carve out an entire weekend and go away. It is something simple that gives you a quick recharge. Here are some ideas:

• Wake up 15 minutes early and have a cup of tea alone before starting your day.
• Take a walk after dinner every evening alone (or with your favorite music.)
• Take a bath before you go to sleep (or even a nice warm shower.)
• Watch your favorite movie.
• Spend 30 minutes reading a book or magazine. 
• Play a game you enjoy on your tablet or smartphone.
• Put your headphones on and listen to your favorite music while closing your eyes and zoning out!
• Spend time with your BFF.
• Get a quick manicure or pedicure (or ask your BFF for a manicure/pedicure.)
• Sit and watch a sunset or sunrise.
• Take a nap!

So, as you can see, it doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. When I had several small children, just using the bathroom alone with a magazine was my way of carving out 10 minutes alone!

Find Your Way

I have lost my way in the last few years, forgetting to take care of me. This weekend, I plan to relax. We do have things that need to be taken care of, but I’m also going to take care of me. I have a new book I want to read and I plan to take a nice long run over the weekend. Those are my ways of taking care of me!

Are you taking care of yourself?