by Prue Henschke | Feb 27, 2018 | Two minutes with interview series
When was the last time you had “me-time” and how did you spend that time?
As a work-from-home mom, it can definitely be difficult to find any me-time! Luckily, I have an amazing husband and family close-by who value self-care. They will take my son, Beckett, and let me just get out of the house. I typically go and browse the aisles at Target, or stop in a few boutiques just to look! Just taking my time doing everyday activities without a toddler gives me the refresh I need.
What are some of your favourite ways to practice self care?
I love to find ways to practice self-care in the everyday moments. I am a makeup artist, so just spending a few more minutes alone doing a new makeup look or face-mask gives me time to better myself. I also go to the gym around 3 times a week. Sometimes I will just stretch and breathe to keep myself centered and feeling healthy not only physically but mentally.
What advice would you give to mamas struggling to create “me-time”? How do you make time in your schedule for yourself?
My best piece of advice is to find a good support group. Make sure your husband/ significant other knows how important me-time is to a new mama. Also, use naps and preschool time intentionally. Do things during those times that make you feel healthy and fufilled as a woman!
by Prue Henschke | Feb 25, 2018 | Two minutes with interview series
When was the last time you had “me-time” and how did you spend that time?
Last night I took a few minutes to put on a face mask, and then I pampered my face after I washed it off by applying some of my favorite serums and creams. Also, last weekend we went on a little staycation. Shortly before we checked out, I had my husband watch Gray while I went for a walk by the ocean. I sat on the rocks by the water, and it was so calming. I even saw a few dolphins swimming nearby! Sometimes being alone for a few minutes is all I need to recharge.
What are some of your favourite ways to practice self care?
Some of my favorite ways to practice self care include little things like painting my nails, getting my eyebrows done or setting aside time to work out. It’s pretty rare that I actually get to go to the gym, so even working out at home makes a big difference. I also try to read, listen to podcasts and write as a creative outlet. Baking and even just having a glass of wine can also be super relaxing.
What advice would you give to mamas struggling to create “me-time”? How do you make time in your schedule for yourself?
First of all, I would say that you need to make yourself a priority. I think it has taken me longer than most moms to realize how important me-time is. I used to feel so guilty about needing time alone, or wanting to do things for myself. I now realize that I not only deserve it, but it also allows me to be the best wife and mom when I focus on my needs as well as my family’s. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy or time consuming. Just squeeze it in whenever you can. Sometimes I write a blog post or take a walk outside during my lunch, and other times I try to have my husband stay with Gray so I can work out for half an hour or go shopping. Start with small things so you don’t have an excuse not to do things for yourself.
by Prue Henschke | Feb 22, 2018 | Two minutes with interview series
When was the last time you had “me-time” and how did you spend that time?
I used to never have (or make) time for myself because I didn’t want to be selfish. I always felt guilty when I took time away. But I have realized over the years that I am a better mom and wife when I allow time for self-care. On a more regular basis, that can be sneaking away for a 30 minute hot bath. It can be getting the kids involved with an activity so that I can take 15 minutes to sit in my office and work or read a good book.
And each week, my husband and I have carved out time for me to leave the house for 3 hours to write. Total time for me to dive into my work + passion.
What are some of your favourite ways to practice self care?
It often looks different for me. And since I run multiple businesses from home, my alone time is often spend “working” for the time being. But, I LOVE what I do, so it’s always fun. I’d love to say it’s full of massages and hair appointments and weekend trips away with the girlfriends but honestly, in this stage of life, it’s more like a hot bath upstairs, a solo trip to the thrift store or a few hours at the coffee shop. And it works perfectly for our family.
What advice would you give to mamas struggling to create “me-time”? How do you make time in your schedule for yourself?
Schedule in it. And also, be spontaneous with it. Make sure to get it on the calendar and arrange for that time to yourself and then stick with it. Do something that fills you up so you have more to give by the time you get back. And when those spontaneous opportunities arise to invest in yourself, do it. And don’t feel guilty that you are taking time away. But instead, take advantage of that time to fill your cup up to overflowing so that you can pour more into others.
by Prue Henschke | Feb 20, 2018 | Two minutes with interview series
When was the last time you had “me-time” and how did you spend that time?
It’s so hard to find me-time with my 4 kids. I think it was last week when I was driving alone from photo-shooting, to my clients for personal training. I had 45 minutes.
What are some of your favourite ways to practice self care?
I always train. Because it’s my job. So I think in a way it’s not self- care. But I live near the ocean and sometimes I can spend about 20-30 min there alone. It gives me strength.
What advice would you give to mamas struggling to create “me-time”? How do you make time in your schedule for yourself?
Being a mother is the greatest blessing of my life. I have no time for myself mostly but if I do, it doesn’t last very long. I’m burning out. A few years ago I had the best vacation in my life. My friend gave me a trip to Switzerland. And I left my 3 kids and husband for a week. Shame, but it was better than a honey moon.
by Prue Henschke | Feb 18, 2018 | Two minutes with interview series
When was the last time you had “me-time” and how did you spend that time?
Last week, I took myself off to the cinema one afternoon before the girls came home from school. It felt very decadent and took a while to convince myself that it was ok to do it, but in the end I thoroughly enjoyed it and my girls thought it was hilarious that I would do such a thing .. on my own and in the middle of the day!
What are some of your favourite ways to practice self care?
I’m pretty pedantic about having ‘me-time’ on a daily basis. Anything that involves escapism is good. I love to jump on my stepper and read, watch Netflix or listen to some tunes. I usually do this about 2/3 times a day for 10-20. It’s also a great was to keep fit. My kids know to leave mum alone when she’s stepping as it’s ‘her’ time.
What advice would you give to mamas struggling to create “me-time”? How do you make time in your schedule for yourself?
My suggestion is to keep it as simple as possible. Something that takes little preparation and is close to or in your home is good. Yes, it’s great to go to the movies or meet friends etc, but in reality we are unable to do this daily. Choose something that you can do EVERY day, and make the most of it by combining activities. For example, take a walk whilst listening to podcasts, study or music.
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Lucy is the founder of Beanstalk Mums. Beanstalk is an online space which empowers single mothers to re-find their potential and re-build their confidence through a website that delivers targeted information and support.
