Life as a mum is hard work, it can feel like you just don’t stop. Even when they go to bed I’ll be up cleaning the dishes, washing clothes and getting clothes ready for the next day. But we all need a little ‘me’ time and a bit of time to re-group, chill out and rest. We all need that time, but different things work for different people. It can be a struggle, mum guilt is a real thing and sometimes we’ll feel bad for having a bit od down time, which really is ridiculous because we’re humans who work so hard! It’s totally allowed and needed! But how exactly do you have some down time when you’ve got kids?
Here’s a few simple suggestions to help you zone out and relax.
Walk it out
I know most people’s versions of relaxing don’t involve exercise, but a simple walk and bit of fresh air can do wondered for your wellbeing. Not only is it great exercise but it gives you time to be alone, to think about life (or to not think if you want to listen to music instead) and it gives you a little bit of freedom to just not have to think about anyone other than yourself for a while. It can be just around the block for 10 minutes or you could even find a local walking route. Whatever works for you.
Talk it out
Giving a friend or a family member a quick phone call can be all the ‘me time’ you need. Having an adult conversation, talking about things going on in your life and even just knowing you’ve checked in with a love one can do you the world of good. A quick ten-minute phone call is all it takes.
Play it out
Online gaming can be a brilliant way to zone out for a while. Somewhere like https://plays.org/ has over a hundred games to choose from so you’ll find something that entertains you. Try the game Invace Spaders which is a retro Space Invaders Inspired Alien Shooter and brings back locks of memories from when I was a kid. It’s great to get lost on a game and it’s amazing how it can help you forget about the stresses and strains of everyday life for a bit and actually have a bit of fun!
Read it out
You’ll probably find yourself scrolling through social media for ages. Reading tweets, Instagram captions and Facebook updates for absolutely no reason at all. So how about reading something that can actually help you relax? Get back into reading books and you’ll find yourself in a new world of imagination. It’s amazing how we’ll say we don’t have time to read but manage to read 100 tweets a day.
Whatever works for you, just make sure you take a few minutes a day to relax. You’re a mum, that’s for sure, but you’re also a person who needs rest, relaxation and a bit of fun! Don’t ever feel guilty because in order to be the best mum, you need to look after yourself too. Happy chillaxing!
