Back to school means....

It's time to go back to school. For moms across our region, it means back to a routine. There is nothing that helps us keep our sanity more than schedules and routines. Don't allow the misconception of our well being and the need for structure to guilt you into being more relaxed about setting expectations at home. Here are some tips to help you keep up with your "me time:"

1. Their bed time can equal your "me time." Setting a firm bed time for children and teens help shared space for you to enjoy some peace before you turn in. Children sleep more when they learn something new. It is during the sleep cycle that new information is stored in the long term memory for easy recall later, for example at test time. Sleep is also when the brain develops and grown, making new connections. Sleep is indeed an important tool for our kids.
2. Daily schedules, leave time for fun. Schedules can help with homework time, study time, and extra curricular activities. If you are the mom taxi, use the time while kids are at practice to walk around the track, take in some sights at the local park, call a friend, or get a manicure. Little things can indeed make a big difference.
3. Simplify. In order to simplify some things, we have to be willing to surrender control over every single thing in our lives. It is OK for someone to do something some of the time. When I mentioned valet laundry service, my friend couldn't fathom the thought of someone else washing her clothes. My suggestion? Start small. Let's start with linen's once a week. Another thing we can do is grocery shopping on line, with low cost or free home delivery. I love taking advantage of this option because I save $10-40 a trip from not being able to pick up things I didn't need that were not on my shopping list. Review some ways you can simply your daily, weekly, or monthly routines and surrender back to your sanity with "me time."
4. Everybody do their share. It is more than acceptable that everyone in your household share in the household chores. Divvy up chores among your spouse/partner, kids, and assign how often or when the chores should be done. Or you can simply make the 30 minutes following dinner a household-common clean up time.
5. Get your vitamin D from the sun. While I was at the pool on Saturday I saw a woman washing her clothes. When she took a seat next to me to enjoy some ice cream I admitted I needed to wash too, but that I didn't waste my daylight hours on chores. I prefer to clean before or after the sun rise, so that I can enjoy being outdoors. I usually work Monday-Friday, so the bulk of my daylight hours are spent inside my office. On Saturday and Sunday, I try to get out and get moving!

The key is not to easy, but it is simple: You have to make time for yourself. Until you understand that your well being is a priority for the wellness of all those who depend on you, making yourself a priority can continue to be a challenge.

Participating in the Women's Well~Being Circle provides each woman with support and information on how to incorporate self care into her daily routine. Even with a once a month event, that is taking the first step to ensure some personal time for your wellness. Our events are fun, nurturing, and relaxing.