“Me time” refers to moments where you prioritize yourself, focusing on activities that nurture your well-being. It can be as simple as reading a book, taking a walk, or enjoying a hobby. It is an opportunity to disconnect from external demands and reconnect with yourself.
Sometimes, the simplest moments hold the deepest wisdom. Let your thoughts settle, and clarity will find you.
We all know that we should be incorporating “me time” into our lives and this should be seen as a necessity, not a luxury. However, this is easier said than done as I have found out.
In today’s fast-paced world, taking time for yourself is often overlooked as the pressures of life take precedence over any plans you may have to slow down. As the saying goes ‘taking care of yourself is the best way to take care of others’.
To me this has always seemed a little selfish, but, in the grand scheme of things, to keep you happy, healthy and living your best life, take it from me, you need to do it!
After having a short time off work with stress, I now realise that taking myself away from pressures, even for a short time helps me to refocus, reenergise and return to the rest of the day with a clearer head. I no longer try to be the person who says ‘yes’ to everyone.
Here Are Some Benefits of “Me Time”
1. Reduces Stress: Taking time for yourself helps reduce stress by allowing you to relax and recharge. It provides a break from daily pressures, helping you to approach challenges with a clearer mind.
2. Improves Mental Health: Regularly setting aside “me time” can improve mental health by reducing anxiety and depression. It provides an opportunity to reflect and process emotions, leading to increased emotional resilience.
3. Boosts Creativity: When you allow yourself time to unwind, your mind becomes more open to new ideas. This can lead to increased creativity and innovative thinking.
4. Enhances Self-Discovery: Spending time alone encourages self-reflection and self-discovery. It helps you better understand your desires, goals, and values, aiding in personal growth.
How to Incorporate “Me Time” into Your Routine
Schedule It: Treat “me time” as an important appointment. Block out time on your calendar and commit to it, ensuring nothing else interferes.
Start Small: If you’re new to taking time for yourself, start with short periods, like 10-15 minutes a day. Gradually increase the duration as you become more comfortable.
Choose Activities You Love: Engage in activities that truly make you happy, whether it’s journaling, gardening, or practicing yoga. This ensures your “me time” is fulfilling.
Create a Relaxing Environment: Set up a space that is calming and free from distractions. This could be a cozy corner of your home or a peaceful spot in nature.
Disconnect from Technology: To fully enjoy “me time,” consider unplugging from devices. This helps you to be present and focused on yourself.
This all sounds easy, and it is, on paper. Putting it into practice is a lot harder. Over the years I have struggled with the concept of “Me Time” , especially when my children were younger and had sporadic periods where I have put my foot down and make sure the people around me knew not to disturb me. This was usually at the point where I had had enough, not the best way to take care of yourself, believe me.
In my experience, finding a new hobby, decorating the house or catching up with friends, has helped me and you don’t need to spend a fortune on fancy spas and afternoon teas, as lovely as they are. A walk round your neighbourhood can be just enough to help get you moving and refocussing. Who knows you may find yourself enjoying it.
