Mother’s Day is a time set aside for those around us to marvel at what we mamas get done: from making all the snacks, to supporting our family’s emotional well-being, to making all the plans — moms have a full schedule of thinking the things and then making them happen.
Since moms are out there making decisions all day, every day, and some days even in their sleep, it’s no wonder it can be tough deciding how to spend that precious Mother’s Day downtime. So, moms, give your overworked brain a break and check out this list of mini Mother’s Day momcations designed to inspire and support you in feeling recharged, and most of all, appreciated.
1. Turn on a podcast and enjoy the outdoors
Studies have shown that “taking at least 20 minutes out of your day to stroll or sit in a place that makes you feel in contact with nature will significantly lower your stress hormone levels.” So, find a green space that calms, a podcast that inspires, and take some much-deserved time off in the great outdoors.
2. Take a new class
That repetitive thought encouraging you to try a new yoga, knitting, or birdwatching class is there for a reason. Trying new things builds confidence and invigorates your well-being. So, go ahead and trust your instincts, borrow your kid’s binoculars, and get a close-up look at a subject that excites you.
3. Escape to a coffee shop
There’s something about doing nothing — and re-caffeinating — that makes for a magical afternoon. Take a trip to your local coffee shop and have some uninterrupted sit-down time. No one in this sanctuary of caffeine will ask you to get up and grab them cheese crackers, more milk, or a second Bobo Bar. They’ll only ask if you need a scone to go with your cuppa.
4. Write a letter
While writing may not seem vacation-like, studies say, “Expressive writing has been linked to improved mood, well-being, and reduced stress levels for those who engage in it regularly.” So, get your journal or scraps of paper and write a missive to send — or keep. This can be a letter of gratitude to your BFF or a short card to your future grown-up kiddos expressing feelings about momming, adulting, and a couple of fun facts they wouldn’t have guessed. Or take time out to write a supportive letter to yourself about future goals and how awesome you are in the here and now.
5. Take yourself on a date
Schedule a date with yourself doing an activity that recharges. This can be anything from lunch with a friend to a night out alone. Taking this intentional “me time” gives you the space to nurture yourself instead of everyone else. It gives you time away from parenting pressures so you can come back to yourself as an individual. So, remember: Have fun and take yourself out on the town!
Mother’s Day may only roll around once a year, but this doesn’t mean you have to stop your mini momcation journey
These “me time” breaks support you in staying emotionally (and physically) healthy, and taking a time out from momming and more time for you lessens stress and reduces feelings of burnout. So, check off some of your favorites and perhaps carry them over into weekly/monthly rituals that keep the appreciative feelings of Mother’s Day flowing for more than just one day a year.
