Taking Time For Yourself

Be Good to Yourself

You have been going nonstop for weeks with your kids at home. One more kids’ movie without some alone time and you might just go crazy. How do you get through these moments? Start with one deep breath. It will get better, but is going to be this way for a while.

Let’s look at ways to refocus your energy and regroup in order to remain calm and survive weeks and months at home with no breaks.

Treat Yourself

I’m not talking about an all-inclusive vacation to a faraway place, although how lovely would that be? Instead, simply take a minute or two to enjoy a treat that can help send you to your happy place. Savor your favorite cookie, a relaxing cup of tea, or some chocolate. Grab an inexpensive bunch of flowers next time you venture out to the grocery store. If finances allow, order a new book or some craft supplies. Getting tired of the same stay-at-home uniform? Splurge on some comfy leggings, slippers or a new spring top. Whatever you can afford that would put a smile on your face, treat yourself to it and enjoy it.

Tag Team Parenting

If both parents are at home during this time, take turns with the kids. Make it a point to give each parent at least 30 minutes of alone time with no interruption. Take this time to soak in a hot bubble bath, catch up on a show or just simply be. Do whatever will calm you. If needed, set a timer and place it outside the door so everyone knows not to bother you during that time.

Naptime/Quiet Time

Enjoy some me-time while your little ones nap. Even older kids can have a mandated quiet time. Then grab this opportunity do something for yourself. Have a cup of coffee and sit outside in the sun. Break out that new craft you purchased and start working on it. Read, call a friend, listen to music, or simply do nothing. Maybe you could use a little nap yourself.

Screen Time

When it comes to screen time, it completely depends on your family and what works for you. But during these challenging times, you may find that bending the rules a bit is a must for your sanity and theirs. If you have more than one TV, computer or tablet, use them so that everyone can get a chance to watch what they want. Otherwise, make a schedule for taking turns. Meanwhile, you can use this time to do something you want to do.

Call Family and Friends

Video chat and talking on the phone with family and friends is critical during this time of social distancing. Not only is this important for you and your family, but it’s just as good for whoever’s on the receiving end. Social interaction gives us a small escape from our own little world.

Make sure the kids get a chance to talk to some of their friends and family, too. Seeing familiar faces other than parents and siblings can help keep their spirits up. Remember, they’re used to seeing other people on a daily basis, and not seeing them can be traumatic—especially when they don’t understand why.

Yoga

Search online for different types of yoga to help you decompress. Yoga can help with anything from stress to anxiety to pain. If you are not into yoga, try other meditation methods. Any physical activity is important for the whole family.  Even if the kids do it with you, you’ll likely feel more energized and rejuvenated after.

Being at home with everyone in your family all the time can be very trying. We normally have work and school as an outlet. It’s normal to feel you are barely getting by and need to decompress somehow. It’s OK if you don’t limit screen time, allow the kids to bounce off the walls or have cake for breakfast. This is not our normal life. Do what you need to do to get through it, and we will all be better for it in the end