If you are like most moms, you may feel guilty when you step away from your parenting responsibilities to have a little time for yourself. When you are being pulled in so many different directions, it is easy to put your own needs last. However, not taking the time to relax and rejuvenate is actually detrimental to your own health and well-being. Here are some reasons you should not feel guilty about indulging in some “me time.”

Helps You to Cope With Stress

Taking frequent breaks and escaping on your own can help you to cope with the stress of everyday life. Stress is a normal part of life. You cannot expect to be able to deal with it if you never take the time to refuel.

To Teach Your Kids About the Importance of Self-Care

Children learn the best by example. By being intentional about taking time for yourself, they will see the importance of practicing self-care. This is especially important if you have daughters who need to model good self-care practices so that they will also take time for themselves in the future. You want to send the message to your kids that their personal needs matter.

You Will Be More Effective in Your Parenting

It is hard to be at the top of your game if you are not well-rested. Taking the time to get away from the realities of your everyday life will go a long way toward recharging your batteries. This will make you a more effective parent and worker.

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Do not use the excuse that you do not have time to fit in some personal time. You will find that you are actually more productive in the long run if you take this time to rest.

Boost Your Physical and Emotional Health

Making time for your own needs will have an exponentially positive effect on your overall physical and mental health. Engaging in a regular exercise routine will improve your health while also boosting your mood. You cannot expect to be able to take care of others if you do not take care of yourself first.

Keep You More Organized

For many busy moms, the biggest challenge of having time to themselves is simply finding the time to enjoy it. This is why it is crucial to put it on your schedule. The intentional act of putting your alone time on your calendar will help you to keep your personal schedule more organized. You will not find time for yourself if you do not commit to it regularly. Having a regular schedule will naturally lead to better organizational skills.

Encourages Bonding With Other Caregivers

Children thrive when they know that they can count on more people than just their mom. Taking time for yourself regularly will encourage your child to bond with other caregivers. It doesn’t matter if it’s your partner, a grandparent, or a trusted friend. This is a great opportunity for people you trust to build a relationship with your children. 

To Reconnect With Friends

Are you feeling isolated in your role as a mother? There is a good chance that your friends are also feeling this way. Connecting with friends is a great way to boost your own morale as well as those around you.

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Setting up regular coffee dates, lunch outings, or girls nights out can pay off big dividends for your emotional well-being.

Remember Who You Are

It is easy to forget who you once were once you get deep into parenting. Making time for yourself is one of the best ways to remember your pre-mom self. Try to pick activities that you once enjoyed before having kids so that it is all about you and not your children.

You Only Have One Shot at Life

It may sound cliche, but you only live once. Make the most out of your time by doing the things that genuinely bring you joy. You owe it to yourself to be purposeful about having new experiences that make you happy.

What are you waiting for? These nine reasons provide the perfect excuse for getting out there and enjoying some time to yourself with any associated guilt.