It’s hard work being a mom, and it can seem like there is very little time left after you’ve taken care of everyone else’s needs. If like most Moms, you put others before yourself, you can end up neglecting your own wellbeing, and that’s not good for you or your family. To be fit and healthy enough to cope with a busy life and the demands of children, you need to look after yourself as well, and indulging in a pamper session now and then is a great way to de-stress and have some time to yourself.

Bath bombs on a counter

Making the time

This can be the hardest part of planning a pamper session. If you do get half an hour to spare, often you will find some chore that needs doing, or you will suddenly remember that you haven’t called a loved one for a long time. If you’re finding it hard to allocate any time for yourself, what you need to do is make an appointment. Mark a set time on your wall planner or in your diary, blocking out an hour twice a week to devote to relaxation and pleasurable activities. If someone wants you to do something when you check your calendar you can say you are booked at that time. Don’t feel guilty about putting yourself first, you owe it to yourself to take care of your health and wellbeing, and if you don’t, you won’t be able to care for anyone else in the longer term.

How to pamper yourself

Having a pamper is different from making time for hobbies or sports or going out with friends. All those activities are important too, for exercise, fulfillment and stress relief, but pamper time is all about relaxing at home and enjoying peace and quiet.

A lovely warm bubble bath is a great way to start, as the water will soothe your muscles and make you feel lighter. Use some essential oils in the hot water, which not only smell wonderful but could help you to relax properly too. In the movies, people seem to find time to light hundreds of candles to add to the atmosphere, but you don’t need to do that; have them if you want them, but being in the bath is your main goal. Wear your favorite bandini top bathing suit while soaking in your bubble bath because why not? The past year didn’t allow for much traveling because of the life-threatening health risk presented by the coronavirus pandemic. You likely have not found the chance to wear your new clothes and swimsuits. If you’re going to indulge, you may as well go all the way and dress up in beautiful clothes or swimsuits.

While you’re taking over the bathroom, you can do a few home beauty treatments as well, like applying a facemask, defoliating or giving yourself a pedicure. If you know about hair growth stages you’ll be aware that the ends of your hair can be up to six years old, so give it a deep conditioning treatment to nourish the tips. Allow as much time as you can to relax in the bath, releasing tension from your muscles and allowing the water to take the strain. Rest your head on a bath pillow and play some soothing music if it calms you. If you find it hard to switch your brain off, you could read a book, but choose something light and entertaining that doesn’t take too much effort to understand.

If you can’t get the house to yourself for your pamper, tell everyone the bathroom is off limits for an hour, lock the door and make the most of your calming oasis. You’ll feel rejuvenated, and you’ll be far better able to cope with the stresses of life.