We could all use a little more time to ourselves during the day. Between our busy schedules, our to-do lists, and the things we totally forgot to do, there never seems to be enough time to pause and re-charge ourselves. Fortunately, no matter how much time you have (or don’t have) there are sneaky little ways that you can create the time you need to reinvigorate in the little pockets of time you already have in your typical day! Read on to discover our favorite ways to create more “me” time!
Take Your Brain On A Vacation
Tara Cousineau, PhD, a clinical psychologist and author of the forthcoming book, The Kindness Cure recommends, “Whenever you find yourself having to wait for something and getting irritated, like standing in a long grocery line or sitting in a traffic jam, use that time for stealthy self-care.” Cousineau continues, “A great way to do that is by listening to an inspirational podcast or captivating audiobook that takes your mind away from the daily annoyances you have little control over. This well-spent me-time will help you to relax.”
Repurpose Your Commute
Commuting can sometimes feel like a mindless activity that drains our energy and sucks up precious time. If your commute allows you to, try switching it up by bike riding, rollerblading or jogging to work! If this isn’t a realistic option to get you to and from your job, you can always take a brisk walk or a bike ride during your lunch hour.
Find A Positivity Buddy
Finding “me” time may be difficult to tackle on your own. Dr. Cousineau says, “We tend to follow through on things more often when we’re accountable to someone else.” Make things a little easier on yourself and find a friend who will remind you when you need to take some time for yourself. Letting a friend know that you’re trying to work on creating enough me time to focus on you will give you an accountability partner who has your best interests in mind. It’s a fun and easy way to stay on track!
Use Your Workouts As “Me” Time
Wellness expert Tami De Palma says, “…my workout time is my me time…Whether I’m at the gym, on a run, or in my basement, everybody around here knows that is when you leave Mom alone.” Working out is great for your mind, body and soul and it’s one of the easiest way to grab some time for yourself. Family psychologist, Barbara Greenberg, PhD also recommends stashing a pair of sneakers and a change of workout clothes in your car. Keeping these items handy will help you carve out some necessary “me” time wherever you are, whenever you need it!
Be Mindful Of Your Breath
Most of us hate waiting in line, being put on hold or sitting in traffic. Instead of allowing yourself to become anxious, impatient or frustrated in those moments, take that time for yourself! “Wherever you are, consciously inhale, and exhale, correctly, through your diaphragm,” suggests Avalaura Gaither Beharry, MSW. She states, “You may not have time for a 20-minute meditation, but you can take a deep breath sitting in your chair at work, or waiting for the bus, you name it. Deep breathing calms you down, gives you energy, and helps you shift into a peaceful state of mind.”
Start Your Day With Gratitude
Practicing gratitude can go a long way! Elevated levels of self-esteem, increased energy, a strong immune system and higher levels of intelligence have all been linked to practicing gratitude! Public relations intern, Marni Aspen says, “My whole day is about hitting the ground running, so when my alarm goes off in the a.m., I do just the opposite,” Aspen continues, “While I’m still in bed, I get into child’s pose. I then do a series of cow-cat Poses, and end with child’s pose again. While I’m going through these good-for-my-body yoga moves, I’m giving thanks for what I have and asking for strength to get through my day. The whole production takes less than two minutes, but centers me like nothing else.”
Carving out “me” time is much easier than you think! Restructuring your commute, practicing mindfulness and gratitude and using your workouts are just some of the easiest ways to take the time you need for yourself. If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed, just think of these 6 ways to snag some “me” time!
