Making the Most of Time Away from your Kids
Happy Monday, friends! I think we can all agree that us mamas rarely catch a break, or a moment to ourselves. When we finally do get that precious "me" time, it can be overwhelming to even know what to do with it! Although hard at times, stepping away from the babies we love so much can in turn rejuvinate us, and help energize us to become better moms! When this special time comes, I have compiled a list of "kid-free" things for you to choose from below! I hope you enjoy!
Read a book/magazine
The other day I went to the library, and did something I've never done before as a mom. I took out a book, and started reading it! I felt so "Belle." It was so nice to take a break from reality, and get caught up in someone else's story. There's also something super enchanting about having an actual book in hand, as oppose to an electronic read.
Groom yourself
Take your pick of nails, hair, waxing, threading, massage, etc., caring for our outer self is a great way to show our body love! Although I'll always preach the importance of inner beauty over outer, I can't deny that a fresh mani-pedi gives me a big confidence boost. It can be hard enough embracing the present beauty of your new mom bod, so we shouldn't push our physical needs to the back burner once we have kids...we should embrace them! We may not be able to treat ourselves freely to all the TLC, but treating yourself every once in a while is a great way to show yourself that you are still a priority!
Medical Appointments
I realize this isn't as "fun" as my previous listed ideas, but physical health often gets neglected once a woman becomes a mom. For me, if my kids are healthy, I'm happy, but that doesnt mean I should neglect my own well being! Sometimes our free time needs to be used to take care of our physical health, and then we can cross it off our list until the next scheduled appointment.
Girls night out
What is this you speak of? Oh yeah, I have friends! Keeping in touch with your friends as a mama is so important. Although you may not have as much time as before (which they should understand), having kids shouldn't mean losing great friends. It takes two to stay connected. If you have guilt from your loss of touch, then take the initiative, send them a text telling them how much you appreciate their presence in your life, and get re-connected! Having an adult conversation with someone you can relate to on your level can be refreshing, intellectually stimulating, and fun!
Date night
Do you remember when you were pregnant, and people told you to do things you wouldn't be able to do once the baby came; going to the movies being one of them? They were not lying! My husband and I used to see movies once a week, and I think we've seen three in 2 1/2 years. It's great to do things you and your husband did in the past, prior to kids, to remind you both of how and where it all began. When I have child care, and want to reminisce with the hubby, this is always a fun option! Oh and buttered popcorn! Always buttered popcorn.
Eat uninterrupted
I never knew how much I'd miss eating uniterrupted until I had kids. Of course there are so many beautiful moments with my kids I wouldnt trade, even for food, but I can't say I dont find myself hiding in the bathroom every now and then just to eat my oreos in peace! When you get some time away, head over to your favorite cafe, treat yourself to a coffee and pastry, and enjoy the silence!
Quiet time/Devotion
"Be still, and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10. This is such a beautiful use of time. Sitting still, praying and spending time with God will fill you, and enable you to set your priorities straight. Quiet time with Him will turn the volume down on those anxious, fearful thoughts, and fill you with His truth and strength. Journaling during this time will help you document your conversation, and build your faith through His answers.
Take a bubble bath
Taking a quick bubble bath may still be squeezed into your busy schedule, but do you remember what it was like to take one...ALONE, and with NO time limit?! Candles lit, face mask on, book in hand, toes an inch above the water, warmth around every edge of your body...it's pretty awesome. Having that relaxing bath all to yourself with no time limit is an easy recipe for some serious stress relief.
Attend a therapy session
You don't have to have a huge issue in your life to attend therapy. Talking to someone about your problems, no matter how small, can be very therapeutic, and allow you to keep a consistently healthy mind. As moms, (basically superheroes), we are constantly fixing and listening to our sweet little's problems all day...but is anyone listening to ours? If you find yourself talking your husband's ear off, and wanting a professional to listen to you with no strings attached, then go ahead and give it a try! I, for one, really want to try this!
Exercise
Exercise doesn't have to be executed soley with outer physical results in mind! It can also produce endorphins that relieve stress, encourage discipline, and produce an inner confidence as a result of accomplishing your goals. Go for a romantic walk with your husband, hike with friends, or take a kickboxing class! Remind yourself how it feels to do something for you, and have fun while doing it!
Invest in your hobbies and passions
As moms, we are so eager to invest in and foster our child's creativity that we can often forget about pursuing our own passions. Whatever your craft may be: playing an instrument, singing, painting, mountain climbing, writing, etc., it is so important to invest in it! Chances are you already know what passion you have been putting off. When you get that free time, just do it. Being a mom takes selflessness and big sacrifices, but you shouldn't lose yourself in the process. The creativity you foster in yourself will rub off on your children! It's a good thing. :)
I hope this list gave you a bunch of fun things to look forward to once you get your next window of "child-free" time! Our kids are so incredibly precious to us, but raising them takes the most rewarding hard work! So next time you have some time to yourself, use it wisely, and return more energized and present for the babies you love so much!! Which idea listed above might you tackle in your next free time? I want to know :) Have a beautiful day!
Cool, Calm, and Collectedly Yours,
Laura
