Finding Time for You

It seems so appropriate that the topic most on my mind after neglecting this blog for the past week because I was too busy with work, home, and a sick kid is finding time for myself. Because naturally, just as I haven't posted in the last week, I haven't taken time for myself.

Finding time for myself has always been a challenge. I could certainly blame it on marriage and motherhood (as those have certainly made it harder), but I think this is always something I've struggled with, and I have a feeling it's common for many women out there. We tend to always put others first and give, give, give until we have quite little of ourselves left over at the end of the day.

It wasn't until very recently that I truly realized how important this is. If I don't take care of me, I'm not a very good mom ... or wife for that matter. And I have to be the one to do for me. If I don't do it, no one will.

So, how? It always seemed to me that doing things for me meant I was giving up time with my husband and son. How can I take more time away from them when I'm already away so much for work? (Enter the working mom guilt.)

Well, we can all start in little ways. Maybe it's a bath. Maybe time alone to read a book. Maybe it's as simple as a dinner out with friends.

I started over a year ago (maybe close to two years now) to treat myself to monthly massages. It was one of the best things I ever did. I always schedule them during Dylan's naptime on a Saturday, so my husband gets his alone time and I'm not missing out on anything with Dylan. And what do they get in return? A very relaxed, happy wife/mom who is rejuvenated and ready to tackle the weekend activities. My husband swears it's some of the best money we spend every month. :)

And now I have to thank my amazing sister-in-law for introducing me to hot yoga. I have come up with every excuse in the book for why I'm too busy to exercise, but I couldn't pass up a chance to spend a little time with my sister-in-law (you make it social, and I can't resist!). So, she introduced me to a new place that has classes starting after Dylan goes to bed, and now I'm hooked. I missed this past weekend because Dylan was sick, and much to my surprise, I was really bummed! I WANTED to go! (And I never want to work out!) But I started to realize how great I felt and what a great mood I was in when I got home. That little time away for me is not only giving me some time away, but it's actually good for my health (not to mention how much better I'm fitting in my jeans!).

What do you do to find time for you? How do you rejuvenate yourself after giving all day to work/family? I'd love to hear your ideas ...