The kids are home from school and it feels as though every minute of your day is busy with no chance of taking in any ‘me time’. Well that doesn’t have to be the case. Many doctor’s would say it is good for the mind to not busy it too much with others and take some time for yourself. This will also make a difference in your relationships and how you treat others, including family members if once in a while, you take a break and get some ‘me time’.
Me time means taking time out of a highly busy schedule to get some relaxation and let your thoughts rest on just you.
Here are some ideas you can do to take time out to just be you.
Take a Digital Detox – Put the smart phone down, turn off the computer and television and just relax. This activity not only strains your eyes but keeps your mind busy. Our lives are now filled with these devices and it’s not always a good thing. Pick the best time, switch them off and focus on something you enjoy. Studies also show that too much screen time is not good for our eyesight and general well being.
Treat Yourself – when you feel as though you deserve a treat, do it! Go shopping and buy yourself the smoothie mixer you have been wanting. Book a spa appointment or a yoga class. There are so many ways to treat yourself, especially when you feel you deserve it. Do something that will make you feel appreciated. We should not always depend on others for this.
Some people, particularly women, feel guilty about taking time for themselves. They see themselves as the one who should be taking care of everyone else, and their needs often fall by the wayside. However, taking care of yourself is something that you should never feel guilty about. It not only models healthy behavior for the ones you love, it also keeps you happy, healthy, and strong so that you can continue doing what fulfills you; and if that’s taking care of others, then you’re in an even better position to do that.
Bring out your Creative side – Now that many of us have been working from home or may now be permanently working from home, you need to put work aside and make time for yourself. How many times, have you thought, I would love to learn to paint, or wouldn’t that look beautiful on a canvass. Do It! Pick up a paint set and start drawing. It will allow your mind to explore your inner thoughts and bring out the creative side of your personality.
Go on a Date with your Partner – When is the last time you were on a date with your husband or wife? In many cases, a long time. Children and busy work life can strain a relationship without realising it. Make an effort to appreciate each other and let them know you care. It’s summer, just take a walk together or have a picnic in the park. Take time to listen and take in a bit of nature at the same time,
Take Time to Think about Yourself and Your Mental Health – we are not only responsible for our children but we are also responsible for ourselves. It’s summer! Smell the flowers, take in the sunshine and top up your Vitamin D. Get rest when you need it, eat healthy and think about the future. We are the only ones that can make it better for ourselves.
Phone a friend or family member you haven’t spoken to in a while – The pandemic has put us in what feels isolation. Make the effort to speak to someone you haven’t been in contact with for a while and have a chat, or even better a laugh! Laughter is so healthy. Did you know that smiling and laughing can support your physical health; acts as a stress reliever; improves your memory; strengthen your relationships; and can make your community happier too. Many times you can tell what someone is thinking by the expression on their face. Think happy thoughts and others will too.
Start a Hobby – Have you been thinking about taking up dancing, writing or learning how to swim? Have you wanted to take up pottery but never seemed to find the time? Make that time now. As we come out of the pandemic, it is the best time to start learning something new and feel as though we have accomplished something from this difficult time. There are lots of local classes starting again as lockdown measure ease further. Take advantage of them and continue to learn. It is good for our minds and our well-being to make the most of our time.