Today we are so busy in our lives. Everything is on hyper drive. In addition to a long day at school, children often have after school activities, sports, and other things to do, including homework. Parents, work hard all day then they have to usually do taxi duty at night, not to mention dinner to cook and all tasks that go with it.
This is a lot for anyone. This is why everyone needs to have downtime each day, especially after a hard day. The first step is to set up your life so that everyone can get some alone time that everyone respects. Remember that your home is a haven away from the hustle and bustle of the world. You can create a soft place for each family member to fall.
Stop & Relax
Even if it’s only 15 minutes a day it’s important take a time out, stop and relax for at least 15 minutes a day where you do nothing but be. Just sit and breathe and feel the air going in and out of your lungs. Teach yourself and your children the art of doing nothing but breathing and being. We are taught that we have to be productive at all times, that doing nothing is lazy but it’s not.
Unplug
It’s important to take time away from technology including cell phones, computers, televisions and so forth so that you can truly have some real downtime. Any distractions can interrupt your downtime, and it’s best to avoid them as much as possible. Turn it all off and you’ll be able to get your downtime.
Schedule Your Downtime
It’s important for you to stick to a schedule so that you don’t miss your downtime that you need. Everyone needs some downtime each and every single day. By making it part of your daily schedule, and your children’s daily schedule you’ll set good habits for everyone.
Combine Exercise with Downtime
Go for a walk, use a rebounder, do something for at least 15 minutes that takes you away for your normal activities. This time of downtime is a good way to kill two birds with one stone. You’ll get some exercise in, while also being alone and with your own thoughts. Exercise is good for everyone but exercise you do alone without talking to anyone, or being plugged into technology is the best downtime.
Create a Special Spot
Children do well with having “me” time and downtime if they have a spot they can go to that everyone in the family knows is the place that no one should bother them so that they can recharge. You can build a comfortable nook in a bedroom, or in a family room where the children know they can go to be quiet and just be. Make it super comfortable and a happy place for them to recharge. For yourself, make it a special place that you go to, that the kids and family know not to bother you.
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