8 Ways for Mom to Refresh

Sometimes you just need a break.

I've been there.  A few minutes of quiet can calm your soul.

I'm an introvert, so I tend to recharge by spending time alone. Sitting in my favorite chair by the window, feet propped up on the ottoman, eating a bowl of granola-topped yogurt while reading a magazine is very restful for me!   However, if you're more of an extrovert, you may be energized by being around people - perhaps meeting a friend for coffee or lunch. 

No matter what your personality, here are a few ways you might be refreshed.

1. Call an older, experienced mom for encouragement.  Sometimes you may have to wait until nap time or after the kids are in bed if you want to concentrate!
2. Schedule date night - or, if your children are in school, breakfast or lunch - with your spouse.
3. Get up a few minutes early each day in order to have quiet time.
4. Go outside for a quick walk, either early in the morning or late in the evening when your husband can stay with the children.
5. Designate a place in the house as your retreat, perhaps a corner of the bedroom or just a favorite chair.  Plan a daily rest time for your children and use that time to relax.
6. Have breakfast or coffee with a friend.  If you can't get out by yourselves, invite her over to your house.  Plan an activity for your children - even if it's a short video - so that you have uninterrupted time to talk.
7. Attend a Ladies Bible study or other activity at church.
8. Find music that relaxes you and have it ready to play when you have a few minutes to yourself.

We all pass through different seasons and may have to adjust our "refreshing times" to what currently fits into our schedule and our budget.  I've certainly had times when just grocery shopping by myself was refreshing!

What's your favorite way to refresh?