If only there were more hours in the day. More time for the things we all think of doing, but never really get around to. Busy lives full of business meetings, play dates, housework and taking care of others – actually looking after ourselves can be put on the backburner.
Life can really feel like a blur at times, and a little bit overwhelming. Anyone that has children will know that even a toilet trip requires an audience! Trying to get just half an hour to yourself can feel impossible, but without self-preservation the body and mind can become out of balance and before you know it you’re eating on the run, fuelling your body on junk, not sleeping well and generally feeling rubbish. We can all feel this way at times, sometimes we don’t notice we haven’t taken care of ourselves until we become ill or completely burnout.
How can we all find that healthy balance and make the most of our time? A great way to get back your balance is to write down what you would like to do if you had some free time, and then add it into your schedule as a must! Pencilling in “me time” can feel so selfish, but it’s pretty essential to both our physical and mental health. We find the time for the important stuff in life so make yourself important too!
Here are 5 ideas to having some time out:
- Staying active
We all know that exercise creates endorphins, but also any physical activity can make us feel great. Cycling to work, walking the dog, gardening are all great ways to keep moving. Just being outdoors can give us a greater sense of wellbeing – whatever the weather, even if you only have 5 minutes to spare.
- Taking a bath
Ah the ultimate indulgence. Fill it with bubbles, light some candles and listen to some relaxing music. Pure bliss.
- Reading
Turning off your phone at night and reading can help you to unwind after a busy day. If you’ve got a good book, it can be totally escapism.
- Take time when you eat
Sit down and eat slowly with as little distraction as possible. Enjoy every mouthful.
- Stop and smell the roses
Although it may seem like a cliché, taking time to “stop and smell the roses” can really put life into perspective and give us instant gratitude. Just some quiet time to think and appreciate what we have has a profound effect on our lives. Like anything it takes practice, but daily affirmations help to remind us of the good stuff.
Our time is precious and our days are short, but with a little sacrifice of something else there’s usually room for movement, then as if by magic finding the time we need is right there!
Kelly x
Kelly Francis Bell 