After a busy first week of September I am already exhausted and wondering how we are going to make it through the rest of the busy fall and don’t even want to think about how busy November and December are already looking. (although Christmas is my favourite time of year and November holds my baby’s first birthday so I am excited for those months don’t get me wrong) As a busy mama I always find making time for myself is really hard. I know it is no different for mamas in the business world. To be honest its really hard for most people to make time for themselves in todays society. We are a fast pace, busy busy style of living which can be fun and rewarding but after the high always comes the low. Just like riding a roller coaster after the anticipation builds the thrill happens and then the ride is over such are things in life. For me especially recently I have had to be much more conscious to make time for myself in order to be the best mommy, wife, sister, daughter, friend I can be. So what do you do to make time for yourself? And when you have that time to unwind and relax what do you do? What relaxes you?

For me there are many different things I enjoy doing like a nice bubble bath with a glass of wine (and don’t forget some chocolate). Or reading a good book, going for a pedicure, playing the piano. I even like to go for a run to de-stress and relax.

 

Bubble baths (or a hot shower if you don’t enjoy baths) is a great way to relax your muscles and to take a moment to just be still. If you enjoy soft music can play and help you just be peaceful and tranquil. Adding some epsoms salts and a bath oil with a lavender or camomile is also extra soothing. You can always add some candles to add some aroma and use them instead of your lights. Your mind does a better job or shutting down when you are in a darker place.

Enjoying a nice glass of wine and some chocolate during your bath or even while you sit with your feet up on the couch is always a nice way to relax. I am not picking when it comes to chocolate I really enjoy it all but there is something to be said about finer chocolate. We have a local chocolate factory called Reid Chocolates that sells the most delicious chocolate. I always love to support local businesses and when your being rewarded with the best chocolate around its a pretty good deal. When picking a wine its always nice to choose one that compliments what your eating. If you are like me though and prefer white over red then just choose one to your liking.  I am guilty of choosing my wine by the bottle I usually will drink a Pinot Grigio but no specific brand.

 

Running or working out is another great way to get rid of that unwanted stress and to spend some time with yourself. Now I have to admit this is not my number one way to relax but I do enjoy going for a good run every once in awhile I get the urge to go. (that doesn’t mean I don’t work out regularly just means its not my normal choice for relaxing) Getting sweaty releases toxins and gets endorphins working and after a good hard work out you are then tired and ready to really rest.

 

Reading a good book is always a great way to “escape” and have some time to relax. I have a few different books on the go right now but I will save that for another post. Even if you don’t want to read something fiction you can always relax even while reading something that is teaching you something. Learning is never a bad thing.

For myself playing the piano is a great way for me to relax. I love sitting at my piano and just playing but with two little sets of hands around it makes making that happen very difficult. I want to instill in my babies a love and appreciation for music and I do let them play my piano but I am protective of my baby grand and don’t want my kids or anyone for that matter to miss treat it or misuse it.

And last but not least going for a pedicure by yourself or even with a friend is a great way in my opinion to relax. I mean those fancy chairs that massage you and someone massaging your feet all at the same time is a pretty great feeling. Plus you leave with soft feet and pretty looking toes. I usually bring my Starbucks in hand when I go and sip my drink without interruptions from little people needing my help or attention. It is only about 45 min long but it is the perfect amount of time to refuel yourself and just have those few quiet moments to relax and breathe.

 

 

So there are just some ways I like to relax. How do you relax? When this week are you going to make time for yourself and do something you enjoy? I challenge you to find time!