It’s OK to take a break as a mom.
You’re a Mom. This means you’re a taxi, a mediator, a project manager, not to mention the other 10,000 responsibilities you take on every day. Once the kids are back in school, you think you might have a minute to breathe, but guess again! Meetings, paperwork and school supplies can bog you down and feeling like you need a break, even though it’s all just begun. It’s important to take time out for yourself — either alone or with your pals. We love these ideas for decompressing and keeping your sanity.
Take a Mommy timeout. When you can’t add one more thing to your plate, carve out 15 minutes to do nothing. Tell the family you’re on a timeout and will be back in a bit. Walk into the backyard to breathe in some fresh air or just sit down in a quiet room (if there is one!) and close your eyes. Even a few minutes can help restore sanity.
Be a lady who lunches (without her kids). Grab a few friends and go to lunch at a place that has tablecloths and doesn’t make you order at the counter. Maybe even organize a lunch at home or picnic at a local park. Revel in the delight of not being interrupted 100 times during your meal.
Sweat it out. Grab your kicks and get moving — plain and simple. A trip to the gym or walk around the neighborhood can do wonders to clear your head and energize you. Having your fave tunes on the iPod will make the time fly by! Perhaps the gym has a steam room or spa, where you can get in a little pampering at the same time.
Trade away. Other parents are in the same boat, so work out a trade to give you extra time during the day. Something as simple as you dropping the kids off at school and someone else picking them up can free up a little “me” time. There’s no shame in asking for help.
Join a support group. There are lots of Mom support groups out there and can help ease daily stresses. Sometimes you just need someone to listen and confirm that you’re doing it all just fine.
Here’s to hoping you can take a breather every now and then, even if it’s just a few minutes a day!
