The importance of “time-outs” for moms
Do you ever feel that you are too busy to take time out for yourself?
Maybe you feel lazy or guilty for taking time out?
Perhaps you say, “When things settle down, then I'll take some time to do something for me?”
But things rarely settle down. The stars do not align.
For moms, there's always a need to be met, a dish to wash, and the next meal to prepare. It can be difficult to turn from all this, but mamas, we need refueling.
We don't expect our cars to run endlessly without care, do we? If we ignore the empty light, what happens? We break down! Then the hassle of refueling is time consuming and frustrating. We might think we don't have time to stop and refuel, but it actually saves time (when you consider the alternative).
Taking a few minutes to ourselves has more value than it appears. Those moments are strengthening and might be just the thing to avoid burn out.
I find the longer I go without some time out to take care of myself, the more apt I am to yelling or being unkind. So, the moments away are not just for me, they benefit the whole family.
Please don't think they you should be able to do all this mothering stuff without a break or a rest. You are not super woman. Neither am I. We are humans.
(Here is a wonderful post that expresses this idea better than I could: A meditation on the shocking idea that maybe we are not all just lazy whiners)
Yes, there are many times we must soldier on. We have to push through difficulties, lack of sleep, and illness, but let us also seek moments of rest and rejuvenation.
Build yourself up, mama.
Time outs for moms are not just about bubble baths and chocolate!
Bubble baths are nice, and chocolate can be a lifeline, but I want to feel my legs burn as I hike the trails, enrich my mind with learning, experience the joys of quality literature, and experiment with gourmet recipes.
What really rejuvenates you? What makes you feel excited about life?
Find a little time for it. Even if it's just 15 minutes a day. Tuck a book under the couch cushions and pull it out when you have a moment. Send the kids to their rooms for rest time every afternoon, stretch, read, mindlessly pin crafts on Pinterest, it doesn't matter too much, just give yourself a break.
And don't forget your true lifeline: God. We must plug into the source or a regular basis. Read the word, pray, get with other Christians. Your soul needs it.
“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” Isaiah 40:31
Keep a Bible (or a couple of Bibles) in easy to reach places. Read the word, memorize it, meditate on it. Let it strengthen and guide you.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105
Wonderful post that so many mamas need to read!
When I first became a mom I felt guilty anytime I did anything for myself, thinking I needed to be completely devoted to my baby. Now, after almost 4 years of being a mama, I’ve learned the importance of taking a little me time. Time spent doing something for me really helps to recharge me and in turn, makes me a better mama! No more guilt!
Yay for no more guilt, Rachel! I’m glad you are learning this lesson now (it took me a long time to figure it out).
Have a happy day.
xo
When my kids were little one of my favorite ways of slipping in a bit of scripture was writing scripture on index cards and taping them all over the house. One was on my washer another on the dryer, the kitchen cupboards all had one.
That is an excellent idea, Victoria! I used to have one above my sink, and need to put one there again. Thanks for the reminder.
I think time-outs are very important for moms. I think it is important for moms to be able to regroup, to get their minds renewed. I love to go hiking and walking, but my favorite way to recharge and relax, is to read.