With so much to do and so little time, taking a self-care day can seem like something that is out of reach for parents that feel on the brink of burnout. Furthermore, while one method can work for one family it can differ for another.
How can you take a break without feeling guilty or on the brink of losing your mind? We have put together a few practical steps to help you keep calm and relax as you are reconnecting with yourself.
Remember to create boundaries
Sometimes creating boundaries when it comes to taking on more tasks or commitments can help ease the pressure of feeling like you need to do it all. Creating healthy and safe boundaries at work, with your children and your partner can help ease the pressure. Being clear about when you need a few moments to recharge and refresh without others can help you get a few minutes to yourself before getting back into the swing of things. Remember to speak up when you feel like these boundaries you have created are not being respected.
A screen-free break
Being surrounded by constant distractions and screens can also contribute to a stressful environment. While it is not always possible for you or your family to escape to the great outdoors, setting a time where you do something relaxing that does not involve the use of screens or technology can help with keeping everyone calm. This could differ based on the age of your children but finding a moment to be present and participating in something that helps you relax can be beneficial.
Stretch your limbs
Doing breathing exercises, stretching or even going for a short walk-in nature can help you calm down. The beauty is that you can choose to carve out 5-10 minutes or a good 30 minutes to simply do an exercise that will help you relax. If you have younger children, taking them on a walk with you in a safe area can help everyone unwind outside of the house.
Doodle or colour
Whether you do it with your children or alone, doodling or colouring has calming effects. Playing some background music to set the mood can help you get lost for a couple of minutes. It is also ideal if you are looking for something to quieten your mind.
Start journaling
A blank page can be intimidating at times as you grapple with the words to capture what you are trying to express or what occurred during the day, but in the end, it can be cathartic. Journaling is a great way to sort your thoughts and make sense of what is happening in and around you, even if it means writing a single sentence.
