The average mom gets about 32 minutes of “alone” time per day, according to research. You might think 32 seems like a generous number, especially if you’re reading this article while locked in the bathroom with a 4-year-old wiggling her fingers under the door and asking, “Are you coming out, Mama?”
Even if you don’t have little kids, you still might find it hard to make time for yourself. My days are spent in the office, and time outside of work is generally spent in the car running kids around town. It seems there is always a practice, game, or rehearsal to go to every night of the week. I know when I’m running out of steam, my whole body longs for a little peace. If you know the feeling, don’t feel selfish taking time for yourself. Here are some ways you can find time, despite your jam-packed calendar.
1. Listen.
There are so many inspiring podcasts that can refuel your mind and spirit. When you’re in the car alone, don’t listen to the divisive talk show hosts who cause inner strife. Play your favorite music or turn on an audiobook. With only 32 minutes of alone time, you need to be smart. So whether you drive to and from work or your kids’ school, use that time wisely to help you decompress through sound.
2. Ignite all your senses.
Most likely, the view out your kitchen window is a swing set or yard full of weeds rather than majestic mountains or the refreshing ocean waves. So what can you do? Listen to nature sounds, and imagine that you’re really where ever the sounds take you. If you play beach sounds, light a beachy candle so it smells like you’re there and lay on a beach towel so it feels like it, too. It sounds silly, but it can relax your spirit, even if the beautiful scenery is only in your imagination.
3. Look for foods that feel relaxing.
Some foods, just by their nature, can cause us to relax. The dunking of a tea bag and warmth of a mug, the smell and feel of chocolate on your tongue. Some comfort foods are just what you need to slow your heart rate and help you collect yourself.
4. Drip cold water.
Get away from your cubicle or the toddler for just 30 seconds. Go to the restroom and drip cold water on your wrists and earlobes. You’ll stimulate major arteries underneath the skin in these areas, calming the whole body.
5. Rub your feet.
While you’re at your desk cranking out a report or at the kitchen table doing fourth-grade math, use a golf ball to give yourself a massage for three to five minutes. Just roll your foot over the ball, and voila! Instant foot relaxation.
6. Read a quick inspiring word.
Keep an encouraging book in a convenient place at home or in the car. For me, I keep my Bible and daily devotional near. While you wait for your daughter’s swim class to finish, sit and read something that will motivate and inspire you.
7. Brush your hair.
This is part of your daily routine, so you don’t need any extra time. Just do a few extra strokes and breath deeply as you brush. Repetitive motions are known to relieve stress.
8. Look out the window.
If you can’t get away, take a five-minute break to do nothing but stare out the window. Daydream or look at the shades of green in the trees or the blue in the sky.
9. Breathe a prayer or two.
“Breathing prayers” can be said in one breath. Take a walk outside or down your aisle at work, and utter a simple prayer in sync with your breath to center yourself.
10. Find the sun.
Grab your favorite lounge chair and a book and soak up some rays. Vitamin D always does a body good (along with good sunscreen, of course).
What would you like to do with your 32 minutes?
This article is by Lori Clapper, a radio personality, freelance writer, editor, speaker, and mom to three kids, who is married to an incredible guy.
