I was in Month Two of quarantine when I turned to my husband and said, “I can’t remember the last time I was alone.”
I thought really hard about it and it had been weeks.
There were always people around. People there in the morning. People there at night. There were people in the kitchen, family room, and bedrooms. People everywhere all. the. time.
I got creative about finding moments for myself and as we make our way through the summer months, with spouses still working from home and kids now school-free and needing attention, the need continues.
5 Ways to Create Me Time
Here are some suggestions for carving “me time” into your every day.
Get Physical
Nothing resets my sanity like exercise. It’s amazing how a 30-minute walk around the neighborhood can clear my mind, release my stress, and make me a better person. You can kill two birds with one stone if you take the dog with you or meet a friend for a catch-up session. My favorite is listening to a podcast while I walk. Time flies by and I get to escape, learn, or laugh along the way!
Many local gyms have opened up in various capacities, so check out those options as well. It’s tough exercising at home on your own, so follow the proper precautionary measures, pop in those headphones and get back to the gym.
Create Your Personal Oasis
Whether it be a sunny nook, a shady deck, or the privacy of your own bathtub, create a relaxing space just for you. I love escaping to my back deck with a cold drink and a book. If I close my eyes, I can even pretend I’m on vacation. And I limit interruptions by teaching my family to “respect the book.” If I’m reading, that means mom is busy and they should seek assistance elsewhere. (This works once out of 47 times.)
Escape Into a Book
Speaking of reading, there’s no better escape than into the pages of a good story. Dig into a NY Times Bestseller or pull out an old classic. Lose yourself in fiction or improve yourself with non-fiction. Either way, it’s self-care for your heart, mind, and soul.
I’ll Be Right Back
Sometimes I just need a 15-min break. Volunteering to pick up groceries or drop off the library books is enough to do the trick. Any quick errand can provide the peace and quiet I need and if I swing somewhere for an iced coffee while I’m out, my day is made.
Pamper Yourself
Those roots are your perfect excuse for some “me time.” Make the appointment and soak up an hour or two of pampering. Or paint those nails yourself and then hold up your polished fingers for proof you can’t possibly be bothered right now.
The important point is taking some time just for yourself, your sanity, and your ability to keep going during this endless season of people at home. You’re worth it!
What do you do for me time?
These are all great! During quarantine I have been embracing and enjoying walking solo. With four young children they always want to come along but once a week my husband watches the kids and I go on a solo 5K and it always hits the spot.