Being a mom may be the best job in the world, but it’s the toughest one too! First the sleepless nights and endless diaper changes, then the toddler-getting-into-everything years where you just can’t wait for preschool and kindergarten to give you a break. But even as your kids progress through school, being a mom is still 24/7 stuff. And that’s on top of holding down a job and keeping a home.

Source: Pixabay

It sure is stressful and it’s easy to lose yourself in the non-stop whirl of everyday life. Which is exactly why you should just stop. With all those demands on your time, your energy and your mental resources, you need to make time for yourself. Whether that’s a few minutes of calm in your busy day, or an overhaul of your diet and exercise regime, grab yourself some ‘me time’ to refresh and recharge your body and mind.

Calm your mind, boost your body  

Taking a bath is an easy way to de-stress, but make sure you have no distractions! Add a few drops of a calming essential oil like lavender and muscle-relaxing Epsom salts, maybe light some candles and put on some soothing music. Then lie back and relax.

You might want to try some breathing exercises whilst you’re in the tub, but you can do these anytime, anywhere to zap stress and feel energized. Simply find a quiet space where you can really focus on your breathing for a few minutes. Once you’ve got the hang of it, it’s an effective way to calm down fast.

If you reach for caffeine and the cookie jar to keep you going, you’re doing yourself no favors! That initial high leads to an energy slump, so try swapping out unhealthy snacks for fatigue-fighting foods like unsalted nuts and seeds and fresh fruit. Ditch the sodas and drink plenty of water instead.  

Quality time for you

Source: Pexels

Finding a hobby or pastime that’s just for you might sound selfish, but it’s your quality time to do what you want to do. From crafting or gardening to local classes in subjects that interest you, such as photography, foreign languages, yoga – getting that ‘me time’ is vital for your not only to help you relax but for your self-esteem and to remind you that you’re more than just a mom.

The internet is a great place to pursue new interests too. You can find forums and chatrooms on almost any subject, team up with people to play computer games or try your luck in an online casino. Activities like the latter are more accessible than ever as you can play from home. Not only that but if you’re new to online casinos, there is a website where you can find a list of the best online casino offers and a huge range of games to play for free, so you’re bound to find a game that suits you.

But don’t ignore the real world! Taking a walk after dinner is a great way to clear your head, even if you just walk around the block. Joining a local moms’ group is also a fantastic way to make new friends and share advice, feelings and frustrations with women who really understand where you’re coming from.

Whatever you choose to do, taking the time to look after yourself is essential for your physical and mental health and wellbeing. You’ll always be a mom but never forget, you’re your unique self too.