What is “Me Time”?
The very idea of Me Time has been a source of contention for many years. Psychologists and therapists who routinely treat people for anxiety, depression, and other so-called mood disorders often say that, while their clients need a breakthrough, they rarely give themselves a break. Why Me Time has been portrayed as selfish we may never know. All we know is that we can benefit from a good change of course as it relates to self-care. Here, we discuss why and what you can do to improve your life.
Why “Me Time” is Necessary
For the past several decades, we have swum along in a current of perpetual hustle. We rush to get everyone ready for their days in the morning, then rush off to work before rushing home again feed the family and get everyone ready for bed. By the time parents fall into bed, they are usually bone-tired. In recent months, this rat race has been exacerbated for many people who have found themselves working from home while also overseeing children who are learning from home. This type of situation only increases the value of a parental time-out.
Benefits of “Me Time”
Stress-relief
The idea of Me Time is to do something entirely for yourself. It is a break during which you need not think of anyone’s needs but your own. Studies show that, when we engage in this practice, our nervous system relaxes and we think more clearly, sleep better, and have a stronger immune system.
Positive role-modeling
Often, we find it easier to do things for others than for ourselves. If you know that you’re teaching your children how to manage their own well-being by investing in Me Time, you may be more willing to implement strategies to restore your vitality. In addition to teaching children the value of self-care, your Me Time allows you to engage in parenting with more energy and generosity, which benefits everyone.
Mental health
We’ve come to look at anxiety and depression as mental health issues. They can be, and often they are a product of our environment. When we deny our needs to downtime and are always on the go, there is very little, if any, acknowledgment and processing of emotions. Me Time opens the door for this to happen so we can feel less burdened by the day-to-day stressors of life.
What Can You Do?
There are many ways to spend your Me Time. As long as what you do is solely for you and can be uninterrupted, you’re on the right path. Ideas include taking a long walk in nature, going to bed early for some extra sleep or some time with a good book, yoga, journaling your feelings, getting a massage or facial, or going “floating.”
Learn More About Our Self-Care Services Today
ARIA Med Spa has numerous services that can help you make the most of your Me Time. To schedule a visit with us, call 703-444-2800. Aria Medispa is proud to serve Sterling, VA, and the surrounding areas.