This week, I did something I’ve never done before. Something that didn’t even seem possible.
I took a mini vacation. By myself.
Yes, you read that right. I left my children and my husband behind and headed off to the beach for a few days alone. I went shopping without kids in tow, took photo walks to my heart’s content, and practiced yoga to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. I ate when I was hungry, slept when I was tired, went for long walks on the beach…basically, I paid attention to my own needs for a change.
My word for 2019 is “intentional” and this little getaway was about being intentional with self-care. I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that self-care is something that moms are not great at. We’re too busy taking care of everyone else.
But the older I get, the more I realize how vital it is to refresh myself, both mentally and physically. And a couple of days at the beach not having to worry about anyone but myself did just that.
Maybe you’re thinking, “I could never do that! I can’t afford it!” or maybe, “I’m a single mother and I can’t just leave my kids with my husband.” I get it. Maybe for you, it’ll be an afternoon on your own. Maybe an evening out after you’ve tucked babies into bed. The point is that we all need a break, preferably one that doesn’t have a deadline.
I’ve found for myself that I need a minimum of one full day. If I’m stressing about being home in time to pick kids up from school or in time to make dinner, that deadline hangs over me all day and I’m constantly checking the clock.
Take some time for yourselves. And most importantly, don’t feel guilty about it!
Lea & Lens 