As a parent, it’s normal to feel like your busy life is pulling you in different directions. Whether you go to work or stay at home, having children to look after is simultaneously an incredibly challenging and rewarding job that requires your around-the-clock attention. Therefore, it’s important to look after yourself and recharge your batteries whenever you get some alone time so you’re able to continue looking after the kids to the best of your ability! Here are four ideas to help you make the most of your down time as a busy parent.
Make Home Your Sanctuary
Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent or a working parent, chances are you spend most of your free time at home; it’s important to create a space for yourself that allows you to relax, unwind and recharge your batteries. Maybe it’s a quiet spot you can curl up in with a book and a mug of tea, or perhaps it’s a candlelit bubble bath or even just a space in your bed!
Choose a quiet spot in your home and make it as relaxing as possible. You want to create a sanctuary you can retreat to easily at the end of a busy day. Take the time to clear away toys, and clothes before you sit down, as this helps distinguish between family time and “you time.â€
Practice Yoga
You don’t have to be super flexible to enjoy yoga. Anyone can start off with a beginner’s practice and work up to some of the more advanced poses, but yoga isn’t about competition – it’s about finding what feels good for you and your body.
Not only will an hour of stretching on the mat help you feel physically relaxed, but it will also quieten your mind. The deep breathing techniques you learn in yoga are incredibly meditative, and the poses require concentration and awareness of your body, all of which promote sound mental health. You can find local yoga classes and instructors by looking online, or you can practice at home using a DVD or YouTube video while the kids are asleep.
Laugh More
Laughing works wonders for our physical and mental health by releasing endorphins in the brain and reducing stress levels. Scientists have also found that laughter increases immune cells and fights antibodies, so it can stop you getting sick! Next time you find yourself needing to unwind after a challenging day, skip the wine and chocolate and watch a comedy movie instead – you’ll reap far more benefits and won’t experience a sugar crash. If you’re able to get out of the house, going to see a comedy show with your partner is the perfect date night idea, as the stimulation of natural feel-good chemicals will make you both feel loved up!
Treat Yourself
It’s easy to neglect yourself when you spend all day looking after other people, and most parents are guilty of putting the rest of the family first. However, if you burn out every day and forget to recharge, you will eventually run into problems – whether these manifest in your physical health or your mental health. Parents are busier than ever these days, so it’s important to set aside time alone and practice self-care whenever possible. 
Don’t feel guilty about being self-indulgent occasionally!
Brought to you by our friend, Carol.