From Chaos to Calm: 5 Simple Ways to Find 'Me Time' as a Busy Mom
As a Mom to three amazing daughters, I know that life can feel like a beautiful whirlwind. When they were younger, our days were a flurry of show choir, voice lessons, sports, and playdates. My strength was juggling it all, but it was in those hectic years that I finally understood why my own mother would get up before dawn just to sit and enjoy her coffee in silence.
I began to crave those quiet moments myself. To this day, looking back, I still feel like I didn't truly sleep for 20 years! But I remember the stolen moments of recharge—those precious 5, 10, or 15 minutes of peace that became my lifeline. Taking time for yourself isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. It’s not about grand gestures, but about finding small, quiet pockets of calm in your day. Here are five simple ways to do just that.
1. The Mindful Sip
That cup of coffee or tea you have every morning? Instead of gulping it down while packing lunches, transform it into a mindful ritual. Find a comfortable spot, perhaps near a window, and for just a few minutes, do nothing but enjoy your drink. Pay attention to the warmth of the mug, the aroma, and the taste. This small act of mindfulness can ground you and set a peaceful tone for the day.
2. Create a 'Pocket of Peace'
You don’t need a whole room—just a corner will do. Designate a single chair as your 'pocket of peace.' Make it inviting with a soft pillow or a cozy blanket. When you have a spare 15 minutes, retreat there. You can read a chapter of a book, listen to a calming playlist, or simply close your eyes and breathe. Having a dedicated space signals to your mind that it’s time to relax.
3. The Power of a Single Task
As a mom, you are the queen of multitasking. For your 'me time,' I invite you to do the opposite. Choose one simple, enjoyable activity and give it your full attention. This could be tending to a houseplant, sketching in a notepad, or organizing one small drawer. Focusing on a single, low-pressure task can feel incredibly meditative and bring a sense of order to a chaotic day.
4. Step Outside and Breathe
Never underestimate the restorative power of fresh air. You don’t need to go for a long walk. Simply step out into your backyard or onto your front step. Close your eyes, take five deep breaths, and feel the sun or the breeze on your skin. Notice the sounds around you. This brief change of scenery can instantly reset your nervous system and clear your mind.
5. Journal Your Journey
When your mind is cluttered with to-do lists and worries, a quick 'brain dump' can work wonders. Sometimes I’ll come across a colorful notebook from years ago, filled with scribbles about everything that was going on. Looking at it now, I can’t help but be grateful for that little outlet, that pocket of peace. It's a gift to look back and realize you made it through.
Your journey through motherhood is a demanding and beautiful adventure. I hope and pray you find your little pockets of peace too, and that you have the gift of seeing you made it through the whirlwind. Sometimes, a lovely journal or notepad can become the keeper of these moments, or an inspiring art print on the wall can serve as a visual reminder to pause and breathe. You deserve it, mama.