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Take Five Minutes to Breathe
Are you giving me side-eye while asking who has time to breathe? My friend, you do.
Stopping in your tracks for a few deep breaths is an incredibly calming experience. This is especially useful when your day has been extraordinarily stressful. Even a few minutes of deep breaths can do wonders to improve your mood. This is a wonderful technique to teach the kids, too. We’ve found that getting my two-year-old granddaughter to take deep breaths helps when she’s out of sorts.
Nature’s Bounty
Many studies have been done to prove just how much nature matters. Green spaces have a way of recharging us, which positively affects our cognition, our stress levels, and even our physical health. With this in mind, try to get outside when you can. If you can't, consider creating an indoor garden to enjoy year-round.
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Read
It might seem laughable for a parent to have time to read a book. You'd be amazed at how quickly you can get through a story by reading a page here and there whenever you have a free moment. Reading engages the mind and gives you a much-needed respite. For bonus points, join a book club. Talking about something you've read with other adults is some of the best self-care there is.
Create an Oasis
We all need a space apart which belongs entirely to us. This can be hard when you're a parent. Try to carve out a cozy nook somewhere which is entirely yours. Maintain the space with knickknacks and delights of your choosing. No toys or children's paraphernalia allowed.
Alone Time
Grab a few minutes for yourself while the children are napping or at school. Use this for an indulgence designed just to pamper you. Enjoy a bubble bath. Visit a friend. If your children are young, consider hiring a sitter. Even if you stay at home, having someone else watch the kids so you can have a few minutes to yourself will do wonders for your mood.
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Wonderful insight, Angel! It really is important to take the time for self care. It’s one of the reasons flight attendants tell us to secure our air in an emergency before helping others – if we don’t take care of ourselves first, we may not be able to help others, including our children!
These are all great self care strategies. One of my favorite stress releases is getting out for a hike in nature. I’ve also just joined a book club, so it was neat to see that idea listed here, too!
Although I am not yet a parent I do understand the importance of self care and I can see why it is difficult to practice self care when you are one. These are simple yet great advices for parents!
I don’t have children of my own but I know many busy, parents who could do with these useful tips; I’ll be passing them on!
I did an article myself on how important green spaces are for our wellbeing, so it’s really cool to see green spaces mentioned on your list as well. Any green spaces can be benefit your wellbeing. Great tips
Really great suggestions for easy self-care for busy parents. I think no matter what – self-care is so important. I always love reading and find it to be such a mental health booster and great for self-care. Thank you for sharing!
These are such great self care ideas for parents who are busy. I am sure they appreciate this post!