‘Me Time’ – Is it a selfish ask for parents?
There a so many opinions on becoming a parent but none prepare you for your inevitable need for a break from it all.
And if you’re like me, sometimes you just need the silence to recharge, spend some uninterrupted time with your thoughts or just be a bum for a day. That is completely okay… your mental health is just as important now as it was before you became a parent (it’s arguably even more important).
Don’t forget to take care of you!
Burn out is real. And it is way more debilitating if you’re a parent, because with it comes the guilt that you’re screwing things up.
If it is a break for a couple hours, both you and your spouse (or the other person on this journey with you) should be able to cover for each other when a break is needed. If it is a break for both of you, you can rely on the people within your circle (this is where choosing the right godparent(s) comes into play, lol) to keep your child/ren for some time so you two can reconnect. Take that break and ensure you spend the time doing something you truly enjoy that brings you peace and steadies your mind.
Below I list a few things that usually centres me during my breaks:
1. Go for a run/walk/lazy stroll/drive alone
2. Watch a movie/Tv series alone
3. Plan a spa day/day of pampering
4. Read a book
5. A weekend trip away with the boo (do people still say that?)… leave the kid with grandma or whoever else is suited.
6. Just be… do nothing.
7. Take up a hobby
8. Start crafting
Like with any job you have, self care is always important; don’t forget to take care of you. While my version of a break is not necessarily yours, I’m sure this has sparked some ideas. Take the time you need to unwind and recharge; help yourself to help your baby… they will certainly benefit in the long run.
What do you like to do in your me time? Tell us in the comments below!