As parents, sometimes it seems we spend all of our time taking care of our family's needs. I don't know about you, but I've found all that "need" eventually makes me burn out if I don't make the effort to take care of myself too.
It's certainly a lot harder to fill your little one's emotional needs if your own emotional bank account is on empty.
So now that school is back in session and life is returning (thankfully!) to routine, I'm planning on focusing more on me. Here are eight ideas on how you can find that important time for yourself in Kansas City, too:
1. Enjoy lunch with a friend
Whether you stay at home or work outside the home, lunch is a great time to meet a friend. It helps break up the day and gives you renewed energy to face the rest of your day. A favorite of mine is The Mockingbird Lounge. And if lunch doesn't work, they have an awesome brunch and an awesome happy hours. Head out to the patio for a great view!
2. Find your "people"
Join a local parenting group on Facebook, get together with other parents from your child's school, or find a local club or organization that matches your interests. My favorite Facebook group is Omamas. It's a group monitored by HOME Holistic, but it's really just a TON (15,000+) of moms asking and giving some really great advice.
3. Schedule a spa day
Relax, lie back, and feel your everyday concerns wash away with a spa day at Bella Vita Salon and Spa in Leavenworth. Your newly energized self will thank you.
4. Spend time outdoors
In 1845, Henry David Thoreau wrote "Walden" while secluded in the woods of Massachusetts. More than 50 years later, many scientists agree that Thoreau's meditation on life and nature is spot on. Give nature a try; you won't regret it. I'm personally more of a "sit" in nature kind of gal, and not much a "hiker", but I'm told the Rozarks Nature Trails are awesome.
5. Try a new hobby or activity
It's easy to get bogged down with all of life's "busyness." Take a little time away and explore an activity or hobby you've always wanted to try. From individual hobbies like photography or quilting to group activities like paint nights, running, or cycling groups, there's something for everyone, and there are plenty of free and affordable options! Check your local library! The Basehor Community Library in my neck of the woods offers book club -and even better- a books and beverages club (cheers!), as well as yoga and zumba for a small fee.
6. Plan a romantic date night
Enlist the help of grandparents or exchange date night babysitting with a friend. Have dinner at your favorite restaurant, enjoy a movie or theater performance, or take a walk outdoors at sunset. Rowe Ridge Winery off Leavenworth Rd. in KCK has tastings Thursday-Sunday from 12p-5p! Where you go doesn't matter, but having your partner along will make the night special.
7. Savor the solitude
Spending time alone is good for the soul. Read a book after the kids are in bed or at school, take a walk in your neighborhood alone, or go for a drive to nowhere special. Don't feel like you always have to be doing something "productive."
8. Check the Kansas City Kansas - Leavenworth Macaroni Kid calendar
There are so many fun family-friendly events in Wyandotte and Leavenworth counties, many of which are also perfect to attend alone, with a friend, or with your partner. Take a few minutes out of your busy life and charge your emotional battery by doing something you enjoy -- even if you don't take the kids! KC Ren Fest is this weekend, and while it's great family fun, it's also a great place for wine drinking and people watching. Leave the kids with Dad or Grandma, grab a friend, and "huzzah!" you've got a great day planned.
Taking care of yourself is so important, and not something to be overlooked. I've found that taking care of myself helps make me happier and healthier -- which, in turn, makes me a better mom, wife and citizen of my community.
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