Claiming ‘Me Time

Claiming 'Me Time

The Importance of “Me Time” for Health and Happiness

Say it loud, and say it proud: Me, me, me! Okay, maybe you don’t want to shout it, but trust me, it’s that important. Fitting in time for yourself is not just a luxury, it’s essential for your overall well-being and happiness. So, take charge of your health and happiness, and you’ll lower your stress levels, become more productive, and have more energy to tackle whatever life throws at you.

You may think that prioritizing “me time” is selfish, but the reality is that other people benefit from it too. When you do things that nourish you mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, you bring greater patience and a more positive attitude to your relationships. In other words, taking care of yourself allows you to become a better parent, spouse, and a more effective team player at work.

Book It

Take a page from your calendar, quite literally. Every week, make it a point to look at your calendar and book some much-needed “me time.” Even if you can’t find a whole hour to devote to yourself, don’t worry! Even 5 to 15 minutes can work wonders, as long as you commit to it.

During this time, it’s crucial to avoid using it for tasks like folding laundry or catching up on email. Yes, it may initially seem more stressful to leave things undone, but trust me, you’ll have more energy if you take a little time off. So, where can you find those precious minutes?

• Take advantage of your kids’ reading or nap time.
• Wake up 10 minutes earlier to squeeze in some “me time.”
• Delegate tasks like doing the dishes to your kids or spouse.
• Turn off your smartphone and disconnect from the outside world.
• If needed, adjust your family’s schedule to claim a Saturday morning or Sunday afternoon for yourself.

Gimme 5

If all you have is 5 minutes, you’d be surprised at how much you can make those minutes count. Here are a few ideas to make the most out of those short bursts of “me time”:

• Improved sleep reduces stress-related behavior in children.
• Explosive anger is not just a bad attitude, but a symptom.
• Podcast transformation A personal conversation

• Just breathe. Take a moment to really focus on taking deep breaths. It’s normal for your thoughts to wander, but gently guide your mind back whenever it starts drifting towards the never-ending to-do list.
• Stretch. Get up from your desk and give your muscles some well-deserved attention. Moving your body will help you feel more energized and refreshed.
• Do nothing. That’s right, sit quietly and do absolutely nothing. Resist the urge to jump up and start organizing or cleaning. Instead, let your mind and body rest, and embrace the calmness.

A Few Minutes More

At least once a month, try to carve out a little more time for yourself. Whether it’s 30 minutes or an hour, use this time to do something special just for you. Here are a few ideas to spark your imagination:

• Treat yourself to a pampering session like getting a pedicure or a facial.
• Explore somewhere new, like visiting a museum or going for a walk in a beautiful trail.
• Write down your dreams and goals in a journal, allowing yourself to reflect and focus on your own aspirations.

Say No, Gracefully

Remember, you don’t always have to say yes to everyone’s demands on your time. It’s perfectly okay to create a buffer. If someone asks for your assistance and it cuts into your “me time,” politely let them know that you can help, but you need a quick 20 minutes (or whatever feels right) to recharge before tackling their request. They will understand, and you’ll be grateful for that uninterrupted time.

Stick to It

When it comes to “me time,” consistency is key. Don’t let it become something you cancel at the first sign of a busy day. While it may be tempting to forgo this time, especially when schedules get hectic, it’s crucial to stick up for yourself and prioritize self-care. After all, taking care of yourself will ultimately benefit those around you as well. When you’re happier and more at ease, you’ll be in a better position to support and help others.

So, say it with me, “Me time is essential!” Embrace the importance of carving out time for yourself amidst the chaos of life. Book it in your calendar, seize those 5-minute breaks, indulge in longer moments of self-care, gracefully say no when needed, and above all, stick to it. Your body, mind, and loved ones will thank you for it.