A guide to enjoying “me time” as a parent

Whether you are a first-time parent, or you have several children of varying ages, one of the challenges of parenthood is ensuring that you are always there for your child while retaining your identity as an individual parent. Considering this, making the most of “me time” when your child is asleep or busy with other activities is essential to recharge your batteries in this demanding role. Here are some ideas of how to enjoy “me time” as a parent.

Find a hobby to enjoy alone

You’re probably already involved in your child’s hobbies, whether that includes taking them to and from softball or soccer practice or attending every piano recital. Why not find a hobby of your own, that you can enjoy alone? It could be something practical, such as dressmaking, knitting, or woodwork. Or you might like to go back to school and take online classes in an area you’ve always wanted to know more about—French lessons, for instance. Your new hobby could even be something as simple as picking up a new book to read, recommended by a friend or an online reading list. Whatever hobby you choose, having something new on which to focus your brain will help to recharge you, as well as giving you a sense of achievement as you learn new skills. 

Indulge in some adult treats

Being a parent is a challenging, sometimes stressful role. At times like these, remember that you are just doing your best, and treat yourself. A glass of wine or a vape will help you to relax and unwind, and perhaps remind you that while you are a parent, you are also an adult. Take the time to turn the ritual into a real treat. Look up the type of wine you like, choosing the notes and bouquet, and savor the taste rather than gulping it down—however hard that might be to resist! Try some new vape flavors using a subscription service like ZampleBox. As well as classic flavors such as menthol and tobacco, you might discover a particular favorite, like spruce or pina colada. 

Take time for self-care 

Many parents, understandably, focus on putting their children first, but it’s essential not to neglect your own physical and mental wellbeing. You could introduce meditation to your routine, through yoga or a mindfulness app. Or if you want to work on your physical fitness, you could take an online exercise class in the privacy of your own living room, or even something as simple as going for a walk or a run in your neighborhood. Self-care also means pampering yourself, so don’t feel guilty if you want a long soak in the bath with aromatherapy oils and a time to paint your nails without smudging the varnish. Using your “me time” as an opportunity to practice self-care will help to refresh you mentally and work on your physical health, ensuring that you are ready to deal with the challenges of parenthood without fear. 

Do you have any tips for self care? Taking the stress away from the day and promoting that all important “me time” as a parent, like making a spa at home or having a nice picnic.