The lives of parents are often ruled by when we work, drive carpools, make dinner, clean the house, do laundry, play with the kids, arrange play dates, and attend dance recitals. Not to mention the added stress and planning required for holidays and special occasions. By the time we hit our pillows every night, it seems as though there is nothing left for us. All of our energy and good intentions are drained as we lie there wide awake and remember that we have to get up tomorrow morning and do it all over again.
In order to continue being a top-notch spouse, parent, or friend, we all have to stop at some point to reenergize. But in our fast-paced lives, how can we carve out time to relax and rejuvenate? Try these invigorating and soothing techniques to keep you in tip top mommy and daddy mode!
Get Ready, Get-Set, RELAX!
- Take a Trip to the Spa. It’s not just for mommies anymore! Dads can also enjoy a massage, pedicure or manicure. Go ahead, indulge – you’re worth it!
- Laugh Out Loud. Take the opportunity to chat and reconnect with friends. Go out to lunch with the girls or dinner with the guys. Talking with adults your own age (as opposed to toddlers or surly teenagers) can give you a great emotional outlet to vent, listen, and laugh.
- Get Creative. Find a hobby that you enjoy and go for it. Hobbies such as scrap booking; sewing, golf, swimming, or even shopping, are healthy ways to carve out a little time just for you.
- Send the kids packing. Pack their little suitcases and give grandma and grandpa a call! You don’t have to spend lots of money for a pricey vacation, many parents admit that they send their children for an overnight just so they can order Chinese and have the house to themselves for the evening.
- Steal some time. Dash into Starbucks while the kids are at school. Grab a glass of wine on the deck while they’re playing. Sometimes it’s the “little” moments in life that can make you feel reenergized.
- Volunteer. Some parents enjoy giving back. Performing volunteer work in the community can provide you with a great opportunity to make a difference in your life and the lives of others.
- Cook Comfort Food. Feeling blah? Spice up things by cooking something warm and yummy. It doesn’t have to be fancy; it just has to make you feel better!
- Get physical. Exercise. Go for a walk, jog, or to the gym. Take a Pilates or yoga class. If you don’t have a babysitter, bundle the baby in the jogger, strap on the iPod and go for a stroll.
- Bring home the spa. Spas are a great way to relax, but they can be expensive. So if you want the spa experience – bring it to your own bathroom! Sneak in after the kids go to bed. Toss in some bath salts, warm bubble bath, a glass of wine, and a few candles. It’s a guaranteed recipe for total relaxation!