by Prue Henschke | Jul 19, 2020 | Two minutes with interview series
When was the last time you had “me-time” and how did you spend that time?
This morning I went to a reformer Pilates class, my first one back since having my daughter 3 months ago. I love Pilates for the physical aspect but it also breaks up my week and gives me a bit of time to do something just for me, which is good for the soul.
What are some of your favourite ways to practice self care?
It could be something as extravagant (Well, as extravagant as it can get as a mum to 2 under 2) as a massage or facial or something as simple as a hot shower alone where I can take the time to wash my hair and shave my legs. I come out feeling like a new woman.
What advice would you give to mamas struggling to create “me-time”? How do you make time in your schedule for yourself?
I always tell myself (and my husband) “you can’t pour from an empty cup” and it’s so true! It’s so important to find the time to do something just for yourself. I’m very lucky I have my husband and also my parents who live close by to watch the girls so I can grab a bit of me time when I need it but it if you need to have a nice hot shower when the baby is asleep… and if they won’t sleep - bring the bouncer or play mat into the bathroom with you… Sometimes a mumma just has to shave her legs.
by Prue Henschke | Jul 7, 2020 | Two minutes with interview series
When was the last time you had “me-time” and how did you spend that time?
I would say I get about 45 minutes of “me time” every day day when I workout, immediately after my husband gets home from work. Typically, this would actually be in the morning before work for me, but with daycare still closed where we are living, I am working from home and our schedules are all different than normal. Outside of those 45 minutes, though, the last really significant amount of me-time I got was on Mother’s Day when my husband took the baby for a few hours. I spent that time napping and watched a rom-com movie my husband hates.
What are some of your favourite ways to practice self care?
Watching movies! Especially ones that I know I love.. I think re-watching old favorites is very comforting. I do love exercising as well, but sometimes that feels like more of a chore because I have it blocked off into my days as a regular activity. If that happens, I’ll change up my routine and just move my body in ways that feel good. Or if I REALLY don’t want to, I won’t at all. I’ve learned to let go of feeling like I am required to do anything that doesn’t serve me. I also love to connect with other people for selfcare. Whether it be FaceTiming my family or getting together with a few friends I think talking with those you love or understand what you’re going through is very cathartic. Wine also DEFINITELY a must for me self-care wise 🙂
What advice would you give to mamas struggling to create “me-time”? How do you make time in your schedule for yourself?
First, I have to point out that self-care is not easy! I felt so much guilt in the beginning of motherhood when I would take time for myself. So definitely, my first suggestion is to not let yourself feel any kind of guilt for taking care of yourself! Make it a priority, always. Then, find what matters to YOU. For me, it’s working out, but for others it may be reading , getting a massage, or meditation. Whatever your thing is, fit time into your schedule. Working with your partner to create that time is crucial as well. My husband knows that when he gets home from work, that is my time. If your partner is having a hard time with that (I.e., say.ing, ” I was at work all day, I just want to relax when I come home”) try being very honest and open about how you’re feeling.. explain how you mentally or emotionally need a break and that it will only be for X amount of time every day. If that still is not an option, don’t be afraid to invest in a way to get some alone time, like a babysitter a few times a week. The mental reset is so worth a few dollars. Last, I would say don’t be too strict with your schedule! Like I said before, sometimes when I don’t feel like working out I’ll do something else, like nap or clean. Or I’ll want to spend time with my husband and son as a family. Or, during the day I’ll switch up our routine. If I don’t feel like getting work done during nap time, maybe. I’ll watch a movie or read a book instead. Leave it open to how you’re feeling and what you need at the time.. go easy on yourself!
