Taking time for ourselves often gets put on the back burner, but let’s face it, who couldn’t use a little me time and relaxation? Busy schedules make personal time seem like the impossible, but even if we just take a few minutes out of our day to focus on ourselves, life would feel a little less overwhelming at times.
Here are (my favorite) ten ways to take time for yourself, even if you don’t think you deserve it (you totally do)!
Try a New Recipe
Wether it be a new drink or meal, try something new! Working in the kitchen can be more therapeutic than you think, even if you’re not the best cook. I like to take double the me time by trying new drink and fall recipes, followed by my own personal happy hour of sipping and reading all the latest in the fashion world. I’ve been on a chocolate kick lately and frozen mudslides never disappoint. You may want to give this recipe a try!
Frozen Mudslide
1 shot of Kahlua, 1 shot of Baileys, 1 shot of vodka, 1 shot of chocolate syrup, and 2 cups of ice. Blend all together, then top with whipped cream and chocolate syrup. It is divine!
Book a Mani/Pedi
This is an easy way to squeeze in at least 30 minutes of relaxation time.
Go on a Bike Ride
Not only are bike rides enjoyable, you’ll be getting in some exercise and change of scenery too. It’s a double win.
Keep a Journal
Daily challenges are always fun. If you’re not sure what to write in your journal, start off by challenging yourself to writing one thing you’re grateful for everyday for a year. It will be nice to look back on as the years pass.
Go to the Gym
For those that love working out, going to the gym is a great excuse to get away! Nobody will judge you for working out, so take all the time away as you want!
Start a New Project
If your hobby is your way of getting in some relaxation, now is the time to start fresh. By starting a new project, you’ll be motivated to get it done! That motivation will help you feel less guilty taking a moment away to work on something you love.
Search for Inspiration
Maybe you’re curious what the upcoming fall trends are, or maybe you’re looking for some inspiration for a new home decor idea. Whatever it may be, take to your favorite website or magazine to gather some ideas. Fashion magazines always preview the upcoming trends and it can be fun to take some time to plan a shopping list for even more me time. I picked up InStyle® magazine while shopping at Albertsons and have been enjoying some much needed me time while getting lost in all the fall things to love! Now I feel refreshed and can’t wait go shopping for fall! Right now you can take advantage of $1.00 off PEOPLE®, InStyle®, People StyleWatch®, Real Simple®, and Sunset® magazine with this digital offer until 10/18/15 while supplies last!
Take a Bubble Bath
This is one thing you can never go wrong with and will never regret. Bonus points for enjoying a nice glass of wine while you’re at it!
Visit Your Favorite Spot
Most of us have that one favorite place we can always go to gather our thoughts. Remember this place the next time you need a little escape to regather.
Have a Girl’s Night Out
Or in. You decide. But let’s be honest, there’s really nothing better than sharing some me time with your best friends!
This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and PEOPLE® and InStyle® Magazines but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #BacktoMeTime http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV”
Brittany@TheLadyLawyer says
This is so important! I love getting in my bed early with a stack of books
Shea Cox says
I am in dire need of time to myself. Between wedding planning and renovating a home, I've had no "ME" time. Thanks for the suggestions because I just scheduled a mani/pedi and a massage for this week.
Shea
Monograms and Southern Charm- http://scox86.blogspot.com
Dara @ The Southern Thing says
How exciting! Wedding planning and renovating!? I know it can be stressful, but will be so worth it in the end! Good luck and enjoy that mani/pedi!
Shea Cox says
I am in dire need of time to myself. Between wedding planning and renovating a home, I've had no "ME" time. Thanks for the suggestions because I just scheduled a mani/pedi and a massage for this week.
Shea
Monograms and Southern Charm- http://scox86.blogspot.com
Allison Jones says
I just featured a post on my blog about the importance of prioritizing self-care! It's so important to make "me" time and these tips are fabulous.
Best Wishes,
Allison Jones
http://www.LiveLifeWellBlog.com
Elizabeth Falcigno says
I LOVE going for bike rides to take some time for myself… so relaxing 🙂
Dara @ The Southern Thing says
Me too, especially when it's not as hot out right now!
Danielle says
It's so hard making time for myself with two kids. I'm realizing that if I don't, then I become run down, and that's not good for anyone. Thanks for sharing!
Rachel says
Love this post! It's so important to make time for yourself – and find things that require little energy when you're trying to relax!
Xo, Rach
http://www.seashellsandsparkles.com
Mistle Petrey says
Having me time is so important! I know that if I don't have some me time at least an hour each day, I'll lose my sanity. Taking a bubble bath is one of my favorite "me time" thing to do. All of these are great suggestions!
Rachel Gault says
Love this! Me time is the best!
Payton Sartain says
I've been wanting to do a post like this for awhile now! I'll definitely be linking back to you when I do!
So happy I found your blog through the HCBN! Following along on insta now!
x
http://hustleandhalcyon.com/fall-lip-color-neiman-marcus-bobbi-brown/
Dara @ The Southern Thing says
Go for it! I'd love to hear any other tips! Thanks!
Keating Bartlett says
Love this post! It's so hard to remember to take time for myself sometimes. I spend a lot of time focusing on my blog and on my marriage so me time doesn't always happen as often as it should. But you totally had me at that frozen mudslide! haha I'll definitely be trying that one. I'm also a huge fan of getting manicures. My husband hates how bad I am at painting my nails so he actually sends me to the salon every few weeks haha and lately, I'm completely hooked on the gym! I love spending time focusing on myself. It makes me feel refreshed and ready to take on anything 🙂
Dara @ The Southern Thing says
A husband that sends you to the nail salon!? Now that's a keeper!! I thin we're all a bit bad at taking time for ourselves, but we shouldn't feel guilty. It's needed!
Sandra Litcher says
I love so many of these things! Isn't it crazy how we can forget about all of them sometimes when we get busy with life!!
Francesca Gariano says
UGH, I need to start taking a bit of time for myself. Slowly but surely I'm getting there, but I'm definitely a go, go, go type of person and time for myself falls pretty low on my priority list. Definitely going to have to take some time out of my schedule to try some of these. Thanks so much for the great suggestions!
xx
Francesca
Jessica McDaniel says
I've been learning just how important self-care is to being able to take care of everyone (and everything!) else even better. Since I love to write, I can't wait to get started journaling….maybe while I soak in the tub. Can't remember the last time I did that. Is it sad that I have the biggest smile on my face thinking about doing something for ME?!? 😉
Dara @ The Southern Thing says
Not at all girl! Take as much time as you need, you deserve it! I couldn't agree more. Taking care of ourselves will allow us to take care of everything else even better! Enjoy:)
Courtney Howell says
I love all of these ideas! Self-care has been a focus of mine this year and these ideas will certainly come in good use.
Summer @ Coffee With Summer says
Great list! Love a good bubble bath.
Cute site, by the way!
Summer | http://www.coffeewithsummer.com
Kati Rose @ Constantly Seeking Wonder says
I have to get better at taking time for myself these are fabulous ideas to start with. I can't even remember the last time I took a bubble bath.
Emily Doyen says
Great tips! I will definitely have to make that yummy drink 🙂
Bethany Magnie says
that Essie polish is gorgeous.
Chelsie Carr says
Great tips! I take time for myself by taking a bath, sitting down and reading a book, or painting my nails!
Xo, Chelsie @ Life with Rosie
rkjalernpan says
Great tips! Love the mudslide recipe. Will have to make one of those ASAP.
Kate @ Another Clean Slate says
There is a bike path by my new place so I am thinking about getting a bike and checking it out!
Elisabeth Hayes says
These are all such nice ideas! Cooking and having an at home spa day are my favourite things to do when I'm looking for a little 'me time'.
xo, Liz
http://lipstickandconfetti.com
Matthew Ivan says
It's easy to neglect and fail to treat ourselves. Great tips and thanks!