Tips for Finding "Me Time" As a Mom

Every new parent quickly discovers that the life altering experience of bringing a child into the world means big life changes in amazing ways! With such drastic lifestyle differences, one thing that can get lost in the shuffle for parentsmom and dad is “me time.” This is especially common for mom because of the absolute dependence your child has on you in the first stages of life, and beyond. Below we’ve compiled some tips to help you still find the “me time” that you need and deserve in your life!
 

1. Possibly the most important tip for finding “me time” is defining “me time.” Be honest with yourself about what you really want to do during time that is for yourself. “Me time” doesn’t mean you get a break from the kids to pay the bills, it means you get a specific amount of time to do whatever you want! It might seem indulgent with all that you have going on, but it will truly bring you mental clarity and help you reset emotionally so that you will actually be more efficient at getting back to keeping the family running once “me time” is over.
   
   
2. A recent survey of US moms revealed that on average, women take on 78% of the chores at home and only get about 17 minutes to themselves each day. Communication with your partner about the necessity for you to have “me time” is key to ensuring that a dedicated time is set aside every day for your partner to take over the home chores and to take care of baby. A great way to approach this conversation is to express how a little “me time” is essential for any person to be fully present, whether it be as a professional, a mother, a wife, or a just as a human being! Part of this conversation can be focused on the opportunity for your partnerdaddy to bond with baby.
   
   
3. In addition to “baby-free me time,” you can also take opportunities to create “me time” even while you are with baby. BUT HOW? Do something you truly want to do, that is a baby-friendly activity. A great example of this is to take a mommy-and-me style class, like Babies at the Barre. You get to focus on your health and wellbeing as well as bond with other moms, and even let baby interact with little ones all at the same time .
   
   
4. When it finally happens, the glorious moment when you are alone and doing something that you genuinely want to do, be in the present moment. It can be tempting to allow yourself to get caught up in a sea of thoughts about what is yet to be done. But think about it this way, if you are truly present during “me time”, you will be that much more prepared to face the tasks of the day once you return to them. Being present during “me time” is key to ensuring that it becomes a sustainable and daily practice in your life.

 
Written by Tori Levine, mom and founder of Babies at the Barre™, a unique mommy & me exercise class and mom group / community all in one!  Meet other moms via in-person or online classes all while wearing your baby. Learn more about our low impact, effective mommy & me exercise classes here.

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