If you’re like me, you don’t always do a great job of making time for yourself. If you’ve raised children and taken on the role of nurturer it’s easy to forget to focus back on yourself when you can. We all lead busy lives and too often it becomes a habit to think about everyone else’s needs before our own. I am trying to get better at paying a little more attention to myself.
Three Ways to Take a Little Time for Yourself:
Listen to Music
That is to say, listen to your music. I mean the music that brings you pleasure that maybe no one else in your house wants to listen to. You can get a free subscription to Pandora if you don’t have the music handy. If you’re really lucky you have some of your old albums and a turntable sitting around. So, cue up that Miles Davis, Fleetwood Mac or Bon Jovi while you’re fixing supper. Lose yourself in that Bach: Piano Concerto while relaxing with a glass of wine after dinner but do it for you.
Teatime
Especially when the weather cools down, I love to set aside a little time for myself in the afternoon for teatime. I think the British tradition of afternoon tea is just so civilized. It doesn’t have to take a lot of time, maybe it’s just ten minutes at 3:00 at your desk. Or it can be more leisurely at home, as you browse through that magazine you’ve been meaning to read. Maybe you can include a friend and make it a weekly thing. But sometimes a cup of tea is just the right thing.
A Brisk Walk
There might not be anything better you can do for yourself than taking a daily, 30-minute walk. It’s good for your physical body and it’s also good for your mental health. Breathe in some fresh air, meet a new neighbor and enjoy the nature all around you. Finding the time can be hard but remind yourself that this is for you and you deserve it.
Maybe these ideas don’t all work for you. That’s ok, everyone is different. But you can find something that will work. Is there a creative outlet you have that you’ve been ignoring lately, like sketching? Do you have an old friend that you haven’t phoned in a while? The point is to take some time for your own well being.
Do It With Intent
It’s important to remember when you do take some time for yourself, to do it with intent. Remind yourself that you’re taking time for you and you deserve a little attention. It may seem silly but as you’re toasting that english muffin to have with your tea or walking out the door to go for a walk, say to yourself “I’m doing this for me” or “I am carving out time for myself and I deserve it.” It might just bring a smile to your face.
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