Look after yourself

"If you were to care for yourself the way you care for others, what would that look like?"

This, from parent educator, Allison Rees, is the Island Parent website quote of the week. As I was putting it up on the site, I was reminded of the fact that too often parents (especially Moms) do not take enough time for themselves. Each of us needs to rejuvenate in some way. We need to take some time for ourselves away from family pressures and demands. Yes, kids need to be looked after but if we don't look after ourselves—and I come back to this many times—we are not modelling healthy lifestyles. We are mentors and with that comes the responsibility of "actions speak louder than words".

These are not selfish acts (unless taken to the extreme) but merely actions that give us a break from those demands of children.

How does it look? For each it may be different - for some a solitary time, for others getting together with a friend.
All will involve having your children being taken care of by a babysitter, another parent (swap childminding), a family member (grandparent, aunt, uncle, partner) or a friend. A neighbour of ours with three young children, goes for a run when her spouse arrives home from work.

What would it look like depends upon your idea of taking a break. The list is endless but what's important is that you do something for yourself on a regular basis.

Get some exercise. Take a hike or walk or run by yourself or with someone.

Meet for partner or a friend for coffee.

Make a date for dinner and a show.

Go window shopping.

Be a tourist in your town.

Go for a picnic.

Whatever it is, make a date with yourself to take a break. Trust me, you and your family will all benefit.