The Importance of 'Me' Time
The other day, I was driving home with Finn in his carseat and I heard it - silence. The radio was off, Finn was watching the trees out the window, and my mind was turned off. I savored it. I took the long way home. Nowadays, getting time to myself, without the noise of life in the background is pretty rare. I love the chaos. I love watching Finn chase Juneau around and hearing David sing his silly jingles from the next room. But I love the 'me' time, too.
We all have those days where the TV feels a little too loud, and those squeals and yells and songs become more of an annoyance than a joy. I was feeling those days quite a bit last month and I started resenting the very noises that should bring me joy. I sat down with David and we carved out a plan. Mama needs her 'me' time.We all need a little time alone and I'd argue that moms may need the time more than anyone else. I love my people, but they'realways around! I have always found peace in the silence. Since I can remember, writing in a journal - or this blog, watching a movie alone, or going on a long run have always been my way of unwinding. Finding that 'me' time is important for so many reasons.
Stress Relief
Stress is the biggest illness in my life right now. When it hits, I can feel it in my body. I get lethargic, achey, and irritable. I've come to recognize the signs and I have to make a conscience effort to reduce it. When I started to read about the effects of stress on my body, I was shocked. I immediately started wondering what I could do to reduce it. I made a list of things that make me feel better and more focused - Hit the gym. Meditate. Write down your thoughts. Read a book. Go for a drive with the radio off. Silence is a gift. Embrace it. With these practices come one huge reward - lower stress and a healthier lifestyle. I can't tell you how much better I feel after blowing off some steam at the gym or even locking myself in the bedroom for an hour so I can read a good book. When you are aware of the impacts on your health you will start recognizing the triggers. Reducing stress has become the number one priority in my life simply because when I am stress-free I am a better mother and a better wife.
Perspective
I took advantage of nap time the other morning and went grocery shopping by myself. The moment I parked, water filled my eyes. I missed my boys! They always go shopping with me! It's moments like this that make the tough moments worth it. I left feeling relieved that I could sneak away and came home excited to spend time with my family. A little perspective does the mind good.
Appreciation
In the same vein, getting some 'me' time can also help you appreciate the craziness that is life! Silence is golden, but so is the sound of little feet running around. Being by myself allows me to appreciate the silence and being with my family lets me appreciate them.Alternatively, I always find that I'm much more appreciated after I disappear for a few hours! Mama does a lot, doesn't she?! ;)I have been reflecting a lot on how my body reacts to stress and carving out a bit of 'me' time each day. Whether it be for a few hours or few minutes, I'm recognizing that the awareness alone has helped to reduce my stress, give me perspective, and gain a lot of appreciation for all that I have!So go out and get some 'me' time today! You deserve it!