How To Make The Most Of Your Alone Time As A Single Parent

by Elizabeth Kane, MA, Marriage and Family | More from this Blogger

As a single parent trying to keep up with life's daily demands, finding a much needed moment of relaxation can be challenging. Running to keep up with the demands of work as well as household chores and parenting duties often leave the single parent exhausted by the end of the day. It takes all your energy just to get through the day, pick up the kids and get them to their extra curricular activities. Throw in trying to get a decent and healthy meal on the table,the laundry done and actually spend a little time with the kids before it is time for them to go to bed , and there is no time left for you to unwind. Chores continue after little ones are sleeping and at the end of the evening you fall into bed feeling like you just ran a 10k. Sound familiar? Here are some ways to make the most of your alone time. You are a hard working single parent. Give yourself some much needed down time and attention so that when you do finally fall into bed at the end of the evening you feel relaxed andare able to get ar a restful nights sleep.

1. Bubble bath or a hot shower

Make sure you have your favorite scent of bath oil or body wash, something relaxing like lavender or chamomile to encourage relaxation. Soak as long as you can and try to rid your mind of all of the tasks that you know the next day will bring.

2. Give yourself a manicure or pedicure

Giving your self a manicure or pedicure is a great way to force yourself to sit still! It allows you to do something nice for yourself while ensuring you are planted in a comfortable position, relaxing, waiting for the polish to dry.

3. Put on a good movie

We all have our favorite movies, the ones we know we will watch whenever they are on. Sometimes it is a love story, other times it may be a drama or a comedy. Find a movie that appeals to the mood you are in in that moment and loose yourself in it.

4. Make time to read

It is amazing how hard it can be to do something as simple as find the time to curl up with a good book. Reading is relaxing and allows you time to unwind. It's also fun to find out what other friends are reading and trade books each month so you always have something new to read.

5. Order food in

The demands of getting dinner on the table for your family everyday is time consuming. Every once and a while give yourself a break and order in. It will free up some time for you to spend a little extra time with the kids and finish up the nights duties a little early which will give you a chance to unwind before bedtime.

The tips provided are basic ways to unwind. It is so important to find what works for you and do what you can to work it into your week. Allowing yourself time to relax will help you feel rejuvenated and ready to tackle the next day.

Learn more about Elizabeth Kane, MA, Marriage and Family

Elizabeth Kane lives in Newport Beach, California with her Husband and 3 children. Elizabeth works as a Marriage and Family Therapist-I.

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