Time Out Ideas for Mom

“You are not selfish when you acknowledge your own needs. You are self-aware and that’s important.” ~ Kendall Parkhurst

I love my boys. They are the center of my world. But sometimes being a mom can be overwhelming. I miss the things I used to do before kids. I get cranky, irritable, depressed, or all of the above. Then I feel guilty for missing the old me. It’s times like this when I need a break, a chance to sit down, breath, and collect my thoughts. My husband, God bless him, is quick to notice my tension. He’ll hand me the car keys and encourage me get out of the house.

The truth is that every mom needs a chance to get away and take a time out. And just because you may not have extra money or a babysitter or a couple hours to spend on yourself. That doesn’t mean you can’t take a break. Here are some time out ideas for mom that will help you catch your breath again.

Less than 30 minutes:

Call a good friend and catch up.
Light a scented candle.
Listen to some relaxing music.
Log onto Facebook and update your status.
Go for a brisk walk.
Take a shower.
Catch up on your email to family and friends.
Take a power nap.
Fix a cup of hot tea and read a magazine.
Play a few games of Solitaire or Sudoku.
Take the long way home.

One to Two hours:

Do several of the items listed above.
Take a bubble bath.
Take a long nap.
Do yoga or go for a run.
Read a book.
Visit the gym and get some exercise.
Go window shopping.
Go out for coffee with a friend.
Get a mani-pedi at your favorite salon or day spa
Get your hair done.
Volunteer.
Do some spring cleaning.
Watch a movie or mini-series on Netflix.
Work on your scrapbooks.
Visit your favorite book store and just sit and read.
Bake cookies.
Catch a matinee at the nearest theatre.
Have a girls’ night out.
Take your spouse or partner on a date.

A Whole Day:

Do several of the items listed above.
Go hiking at a nearby state park.
Spend the day at a spa.
Spend the day with your spouse or significant other.
Go on a day trip.

Time Out Ideas for Mom