As parents and caregivers, sometimes it seems we spend all of our time taking care of our family's needs. I don't know about you, but I've found all that "need" eventually makes me burn out if I don't make the effort to take care of myself too.
It's certainly a lot harder to fill your little one's emotional needs if your own emotional bank account is on empty.
So it's time to focus more on us! Here are seven ideas on how parents and caregivers like us can find that important time for themselves in Leominster, Clinton, and beyond:
1. Enjoy lunch, coffee, or a sweet treat with a friend
Whether you stay at home or work outside the home, lunch is a great time to meet a friend. It helps break up the day and gives you renewed energy to face the rest of your day.
- Coffeelands, Clinton
- Meadowbrook Orchards, Sterling
- Bolton Bean, Bolton
- Logan's Table, Leominster
- Vegan Nest, Clinton
2. Schedule a relaxing day
Relax, lie back, and feel your everyday concerns wash away with a spa day or pampering service for yourself. Your newly energized self will thank you.
- Textures Salon, Clinton
- Flutter Yen Aesthetics, Fitchburg
- Rituals Salon & Spa, Leominster
- Dragonfly Wellness, Devens
3. Spend time outdoors
In 1845, Henry David Thoreau wrote "Walden" while secluded in the woods of Massachusetts. More than 50 years later, many scientists agree that Thoreau's meditation on life and nature is spot on. Give nature a try; you won't regret it. Some of my favorite area for a beautiful walk are:
- Wachusett Resevoir - any entry point along Rt 70 or Rt 110 in Clinton, West Boylston, Sterling
- George Hill/Dexter Drumlin in Lancaster
- Barrett Park in Leominster
- Central Park in Clinton
4. Try a new hobby or activity
It's easy to get bogged down with all of life's "busyness." Take a little time away and explore an activity or hobby you've always wanted to try. From individual hobbies like photography or quilting to group activities like paint nights, running, or cycling groups, there's something for everyone.
- Art on the Rocks
- Drama Out of the Box
- Classes at Mount Wachusett Community College
5. Savor the solitude
Spending time alone is good for the soul. Read a book after the kids are in bed or at school, take a walk in your neighborhood alone, or go for a drive to nowhere special. Don't feel like you always have to be doing something "productive." If I'm going to take a lone drive, I like to pick a route and drive for 15-30 minutes and one direction - and then turn around and go back the same way. Sounds so simple, but you'll see different things each time! Interesting routes: Route 2, Route 70, Route 110, Route 140, Route 117, Route 12. These are also great ways to see the fall foliage!
6. Purchase something for yourself.
A Target trip is always good for the soul (AmIRight?) But take a minute to visit a local shop that maybe you haven't had a chance to stop in to. Browse something different - try a new candle scent, purchase a new scarf, try on clothes you like that are displayed in the window.
- Kitchen Sink Candle Company, Clinton & Groton
- Velvet Goose, Gardner
- Notown Goods, Sterling
- Harvard General Store, Harvard
7. Check the Macaroni KID Leominster-Clinton calendar
There are so many fun family-friendly events Leominster, Clinton, West Boylston, Gardner (and beyond!), many of which are also perfect to attend alone, with a friend, or with your partner. Use the calendar, guides, and articles to spark your creativity. Take a few minutes out of your busy life and charge your emotional battery by doing something you enjoy — even if you don't take the kids!
Taking care of yourself is so important, and not something to be overlooked. I've found that taking care of myself helps make me happier and healthier -- which, in turn, makes me a better mom at the end of the day.
