A lot of mothers laugh when you suggest dedicating an evening at home to recharge their batteries.
I have no time!
Who’s going to look after the kids?
What if someone needs me?
These are some of the most common concerns you can have as a mother. However, it’s important to make time for yourself. The main challenge is to create a quiet and peaceful moment when you can be yourself without worrying about someone else. Here are our tips for planning a relaxed evening at home that doesn’t compromise on your family duties.
Don’t sweat it in the kitchen
American mothers spend less time cooking today than previous generations did. Ultimately, mothers spend approximately one hour preparing meals in the kitchen every day. That’s about half to what women in 1965 would spend in the kitchen. However, it is fair to say that today’s mommies are busy juggling household chores, a career, and childcare at the same time. You can make cooking a little quicker for the nights when you want to save some time for yourself. Smart recipes, such as this buffalo sauce recipe here makes a quick seasoning for wings and roasted vegetables. Batch cooking can also save you precious time during the week. All you need to do is to unfreeze pre-made dishes.
Allow yourself to sit on the sofa
Leave the laundry and the rest of the household chores for an evening and relax on the sofa. Allow yourself a couple of hours of undisturbed, worry-less entertainment. You could watch family favorites on Netflix with the kids or simply turn on the PlayStation and challenge your family to a game. Contrary to common beliefs, video games can be not only relaxing but also a great hobby for everyone. They use lateral thinking, which can keep your brain fit without feeling like you’re doing math exercises!
Don’t shy away from long beauty routines
Having a beauty routine is time-demanding. You may not be ready to embrace the traditional 10-step beauty routine from Korean mothers, but you can certainly agree with their thought process. Dedicating time to soothe and protect your skin is a reminder to put yourself first. As a mother, it can be tempting to put your children first. However, you need to remember that a stressed out and drained mother is no use to anyone. There’s a reason why parents should put their oxygen masks first before looking after children in an airplane emergency. You can’t care for them if you don’t look after yourself. So, let your skincare routine be your self-loving moment.
Step into your favorite PJs
Last but not least, as working from home is becoming the new normal, more and more parents are investing in cozy loungewear. In the evening, take the time to change out of your day clothes, even if they are comfy. This simple gesture helps to put your workday behind and relax. There’s nothing like cozy PJs to spend a soothing evening.
It’s been a tough year for everyone, and that includes mothers. Now, more than ever, it’s important to remind yourself to take it slowly. You’ve got the right to take some tie off your mommy duties to care for yourself. Once in a while, have an evening at home where you do what makes you feel happy. Recharge your batteries with our life hacks.
