Moms know that in order to give to others, they must first give to themselves, including the gifts of time, self-care, health, and fitness.

In other words…..When you fill your cup first you can fill other’s more.

Flight attendants provide the perfect analogy. In their pre-flight safety announcements, they show us how to apply oxygen masks if needed during the flight, with instructions to “put on your own mask first” before assisting others. Why? Because without oxygen we can’t provide care to anyone else.

So take 20 minutes for yourself this Mother’s Day, indulge in some well deserved self-care, here are some of my favorite things.

10 Self-Care gifts for you!

1. Catch up on your reading:

Escape into a book and read for 20 minutes, perfect for right before bed, or even during nap time.

2. Give yourself a massage

I know your thinking I am crazy you can’t massage yourself….BUT, you can if you use a foam roller or Lacrosse ball. Even a simple scalp massage can be relaxing.

3. Meditate

YouTube has some amazing guided meditation videos. Pick out a few of your favorites and sit and relax for a few minutes. Meditation does nothing but slow you down, forces you to take your mind off your problems, and focus on breathing.

4. Go for a Run, or a walk…or the Gym…..or yoga….just GO!

Walk or Run.  Around your neighborhood, to the store, anywhere. Just get out of your house or workplace.  In the words of  L. Woods, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.  Happy people just don’t shoot their husbands, they just don’t. .. ” 

5. Sit in the sun for 20 minutes

I do this whenever I can. Living in Vancouver means we don’t always get sunny days but when we do I try to soak up as much sun as I can. Vitamin D is crucial to battle feelings of anxiety or depression.

 6. Write

I blog therefore I write regularly.  However, it takes me a lot longer than 20 minutes to write my posts. What I actually mean about writing as a 20 minute self care is keep a journal or diary where you can write it out. Get all your thoughts out in a stream of consciousness. It will help to cure some of the scatter brain feeling we all get at times.

7. Give yourself a facial

Go into your bathroom slather on your favorite mask. Sit and let it dry for 15-20 minutes. It’s like getting a mini spa day without spending a bunch of money.

8. paint your Nails

Pretty toes, or fancy fingers always a treat…. why not enjoy a glass of vino while your at it.

9. Deep condition your hair

Even in you have oily hair deep conditioning your hair is important for strong hair. Massaging your scalp while applying the conditioner, sitting while it soaks in, and the soft feel afterwards are all very relaxing.

10. Stretch out on the floor and lay there for 5 minutes

I love this one. Seriously get down on the floor and spread out. Stretch your arms above your head, point your toes, and act like you are physically being pulled in opposite directions. Once the stretch is complete you will feel a bit more relaxed so lay there for a few minutes enjoying the tingling.

Enjoy your 20 minutes, whatever you choose to do!

Happy Mother’s Day