15 Simple and Calming Ways You Can Rejuvenate in Minutes During Summer Break

What You Will Learn:

15 Simple and Calming Ways You Can Rejuvenate in Minutes 

1. Take a Walk

I have talked about this before to get out the door. Getting your body moving for even five minutes has so many benefits. It is a great way to spend time alone and be with your thoughts to clear your mind.

2. Practice Deep Breathing or Meditation

A few minutes of meditation or deep breathing helps to reduce stress and boost your mood.  I did this and continue to do so to this day during my bath time. When the kids were home, they knew not to bother me when I was in the bath.

3. Read a Book or Listen to an Audiobook

Escape into a good book or audiobook. Books can be a great way to relax and take a mental break from daily responsibilities by dreaming of faraway places.

4. Do a Quick Workout

Engaging in physical activity can significantly boost your energy and mood, and even a brief workout session can make a noticeable difference in how you feel. I couldn't get to the gym because I didn’t have anyone at home to mind the kids, so I purchased workout videos. Kathy Smith was my go-to. So, whether you have someone home or not, you have no excuse because there is an excellent variety of free content on YouTube, from yoga to pilates and even walking in your living room.

5. Enjoy a Cup of Tea or Coffee

I love, love my morning cup of java! Take a moment to savour a cup of your favourite tea or coffee. Sit quietly and permit yourself to just be. I freshly grind my coffee beans and drink one cup of coffee from my special mug first thing in the morning. There is no one up yet, and I relish that time.

6. Listen to Music or a Podcast

Music and podcasts can be very relaxing and distracting in a good way. Put on some headphones and listen to something that makes you feel good. I have a pump-me-up playlist that I dance around the house to. Getting your kids to dance might not be the break you are looking for, but it can put everyone in a better mood. 

7. Take a Power Nap

A short nap can be incredibly refreshing. Set an alarm for 20 to 30 minutes and let yourself drift off. I am not one for power naps unless I just can’t keep my eyes open. Then I put on a movie that isn't important. If I miss a part when I doze off, I don’t care. 

8. Try Journaling

Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a great way to decompress and clear your mind. Spend a few minutes journaling each day. I journal most days, either first thing in the morning or before bed. Getting my thoughts out of my head and onto paper is therapeutic. I usually get the answers to my problems because all answers are within us. 

9. Gardening or Tending to Plants

Spending time with plants can be very calming. Tend to your garden or indoor plants for a few minutes to enjoy peace. I love getting my hands in Mother Earth. Working with the soil and planting seeds to see them grow is marvellous.

10. Take a Relaxing Bath or Shower

A bath or shower can be very refreshing. Use some scented soap or bath salts to make it feel more luxurious. As mentioned, my daily routine includes a relaxing bath before bed. I use a specific lavender bubble bath, and two or three times a week, I add Epsom salts. I set boundaries around my bath time. 

11. Explore a New Hobby

Dedicate time to a new or forgotten hobby. Whether painting, knitting, or learning a new instrument, engaging in something you love can be a great way to unwind. For me, puzzles and knitting are relaxing. I feel so refreshed when I take this time for myself; when I do, I can tackle challenges more enthusiastically. 

12. Explore Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy can have a calming effect on your mind and body. You can use essential oils or scented candles to create a relaxing environment in your home. My go-to scents are lavender and vanilla. These help me to calm down and help to calm the rest of your family. 

13. Practice Mindful Coloring

Adult colouring books have become popular because they’re a fantastic way to relax and de-stress. Grab a colouring book and some pencils, and let yourself get lost. I love this one. I can colour for hours because I don’t have to think, plan, or organize. Also, I don’t have to stay in the lines if I don’t want to. It’s mindless doodling!!

14. Do a Digital Detox

Spend some time away from screens and social media. Disconnecting from digital devices can help you feel more present and reduce stress. Disconnecting might be a challenge for some of you. I know I have withdrawals. But the more often you try it, the easier it gets. Unplug for five minutes and try some of the suggestions found in this episode.

15. Engage in a Gratitude Practice

Reflecting on what you’re grateful for can improve your mood and mental well-being. Spend a few minutes each day practicing gratitude. There is a lot to say about being grateful. When I take five minutes to either write what I am thankful for in my journal or when I am doing something I don’t want to do, my mood changes and my heart fills with joy. 

Conclusion:

Taking time for yourself as a parent, especially during the bustling summer months, is essential for your well-being. These 15 simple and calming ways you can rejuvenate in minutes during summer break can significantly affect how you feel and function. Whether through a walk, a quick workout, or appreciating all you have, taking time for yourself will help you recharge and be more present for your family.

Remember, it’s not about finding large chunks of time but making the most of the little moments you can carve out for yourself. Embrace these simple strategies to relax and refresh, ensuring you’re ready to take on the challenges and joys of parenting with renewed energy and a positive mindset. Your well-being matters, and taking these small steps can significantly improve your daily life.

Next Week

As the lazy days of summer draw to a close and the back-to-school rush looms on the horizon, you face a golden opportunity to empower your children with a crucial life skill: responsibility. Beyond preparing them for academic challenges, instilling a sense of responsibility nurtures independence and cultivates confidence. 

Join me next week as I explore practical and straightforward methods for you to effectively nurture this essential trait in your children before the school bells start ringing. Whether mastering chores or establishing a morning routine, these strategies will set your child up for success in and out of the classroom.

Remember, Book 1,

Finding Lily’s Inner Magic: A Tale of Building Confidence will be available on my website starting August 13th! Like these simple self-care tips, the book offers practical advice and engaging stories to help children develop essential life skills. Be sure to visit my website, lessonsforlifewithgrammakate.com and grab your copy to support your child's growth and well-being.

Remember, the key is to lead by example and create a safe space for open communication within your family. 

                                                  Change begins with ourselves!

                                           You are not alone in this parenting journey!

To learn more about Cathy or FREE RESOURCES, check out her website at parentingyoungsters.com

Follow Cathy: 

Instagram: - https://www.instagram.com/parenting_youngsters/

Facebook: - https://www.facebook.com/tipsforparentingyoungsters

DISCLAIMER

The Tips for Parenting Youngsters Podcast and content posted by Cathy Barker is presented solely for general information, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have. They should seek the assistance of their healthcare professional for any such conditions.