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Take Care of the Downriver Mama Bears

By Blair Stamper, Macaroni Kid Downriver Publisher November 3, 2018

As we get closer to the Holidays, it is easy to get lost in the to-do list.  Party planning, gift planning, cooking, baking, family get-togethers, play dates, Downriver tree lighting ceremonies, and more.  That is on top of taking care of our normal day-to-day lists as well.  I am a HUGE advocate for mental health days and taking time for ourselves.  If you can get some time away, here are some great, quick ways to recharge and take care of us Downriver mama bears.

Get a Massage

60 minutes.  That is all a massage takes out of your day.  60 minutes to get all of those kinks out from carrying your kids around all day or running around chasing a toddler or even sitting at a desk.  Feel relaxed and rejuvenated after just 60 minutes.  I highly suggest Downriver's Advanced Holistic Health in Southgate.

Get a Manicure or Pedicure

Holidays usually mean looking your best between the Holiday parties, Holiday pictures, and more.  What a perfect excuse to get away and get a relaxing manicure or pedicure.  Plus, you can pick some pretty, glittery colors for the Holidays!

Take a Nap

Yup, I said it.  Forget the dishes, forget the kitchen, forget the floors.  When your little is napping, go lay in your bed and take a nap.  I'm giving you permission.  Do it.  You'll wake up feeling like a new person!

Take a Bath

After the little's go to bed, light some candles, turn off the bathroom lights, grab a book, and just relax.  Add in a bath bomb and your winter skin will thank you.  Take some time to do some reflection and meditation.

Do Yoga

I've found lately that when I am feeling overwhelmed that performing some yoga helps me recenter myself.  Even better?  I found free yoga videos on YouTube, so I don't even have to leave the house!  They run between 20-40 minutes, which means it is super easy to fit in after my little goes to bed, or if I wake up early enough (which lets be real, never happens).

Go for a Walk

Bundle up and hit the pavement.  Go for a pre-dinner stroll with your little.  Bundle everyone up in the stroller and take a look at the changing leaves or the snow falling.  The fresh air will feel refreshing after being inside the dry heat of your home.  Plus, the exercise will feel good!

Read a Book

I know, I know.  The commitment of actually finishing a book and being a mom is a joke.  But, track how much time you are on your phone scrolling I'm embarrassed to admit how much time I spend staring at my phone after my little goes to bed.  If I replaced that time with actually reading a book, I bet I could actually finish a book!

Sit in Silence

My husband hates silence.  But, my introverted self sometimes just needs a little bit of silence to recenter myself.  When my little is napping or before she wakes up in the morning, I'll sit on the couch with a cup of coffee and just reflect.  It helps center myself for the day and start off on  a good note.

Watch Whatever You Want on TV

Steal the remote and binge what you want.  Catch up on your shows.  Even if it is at night after the little goes to bed or during nap time.  I'm really loving rewatching Parks and Recreation.

Breathe

Remember, this Holiday season won't last forever.  The business of running everyone around won't last.  Breathe and enjoy the little moments.


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