Spring break is over, summer is sprouting and soon the kids will be out of school. There are events and practices and meetings and appointments and it seems never-ending. The economy is crazy, the ‘flu’ is in the news, and money is tight. I say these things not to compound the problem but to gently remind you that it’s okay to give yourself a time-out.
Personal time-outs do not have to be expensive. Yes, we would all love to have a spa-day every month, or a mini-vacation here and there, but right now I want you to just take a few precious moments everyday to do something that makes you happy. I don’t care if that is a bath, 15 minutes with a good book, an hour on your deck, a walk with your dog, or a cat-nap. It must be just you and it must be private time.
As wonderful, amazing women we are so programmed to make sure everyone else is taken care of first, second, and third that we find it okay if we’re fourth or even fifth. All I’m asking is that you find your voice and request some ‘me’ time everyday.
Because I am a doctor I will give you the medical reasons why this is important. Taking time for yourself lowers your stress. This can help lower your blood pressure. Stress balance also helps with weight loss and overall hormone balance. Time-outs mean less anxiety and depression or irritability. If you spend your time outside, it means fresh air for your lungs and sunshine for your vitamin D. Movement is an all-around body bonus.
Finally, it also means more self-love which is important for our happiness factor and showing the other women in our lives that it’s okay to put ourselves first, even for a few moments, everyday.