While drinking a cup of tea and reflecting this morning the thought popped into my head about self-care in the summer.  Is this easier because the weather is nice, and you feel like you are “allowed” to relax more, or you can go outside for that nature boost?  Or, is it harder because your kids are with you all the time and you want to relax and can’t and then you feel even more stressed?

I am blessed that my son gets to spend chunks of summer holiday time with Grandparents…so I get breaks, I get time for just me…I get to have those lazy days if I want them (although I do have to be really intentional about it).  But I have many friends who don’t get that break.  I have read many Facebook posts from from other Moms looking for friendship, breaks, ideas and support.

I thought it might be a nice time as a community to SHARE some of the things you’re doing to stay “sane” with the kids at home.  Or if you’re in need of some of that support or help we can together help each other in the right direction.

So, what are you doing? 

How are you getting breaks?

Do you swap childcare days with other friends?

What’s your summer self-care?

Are you part of Mom group on social media? Do you use the events calendar? Are your kids in day camps? 

Let’s start the conversation…let’s help each other out.  Comment below or share on @ourhighriver social media.

Saw this list on www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org  and I really likes it so I thought I would share it too!

It works for men, women, parents or non-parents.

15 ideas for summer wellness:

1. Ditch the couch and relax outdoors. Grab a blanket or lawn chair and something to read and set up camp on a shady patch of grass.
2. Go for a stroll. A long walk can be a great way to clear your head and enjoy a warm summer afternoon. You can also grab a friend and get your exercise while catching up.
3. Explore your local farmer’s market. Take advantage of seasonal produce and local vendors. A trip to the farmer’s market can be a great opportunity to try new foods and incorporate healthier options into your diet.
4. Start a garden or join a community garden. Gardening can be a nice way to meditate, enjoy the outdoors and get some sunshine. It can also serve as a bonding time with your family or a way to make new friends. And at the end of the day, you can enjoy the literal fruits (and vegetables) of your labor!
5. Tidy one small space. Perhaps a drawer or the top of your desk – even having one space clean and free of clutter can help you feel calmer.
6. Make a summer feel-good playlist. Bring on the summer tunes! Music can be an effortless way to improve your mood and motivate you to get moving. Bonus points for listening while exercising or cleaning.
7. Have a picnic. Enjoying a meal outside can be an easy way to get some fresh air and sunshine and shake up your daily routine.
8. Try a new exercise. Getting those endorphins flowing can help calm your mind and improve your mood. Think about doing something outdoors like hiking, tennis or swimming. Just don’t forget your sunscreen and bug spray!
9. Look for things going on in your community. Search online or in the newspaper for events going on around town. Consider outdoor movies, yard sales, festivals, farmer’s markets, concerts or dance classes. Making fun plans can help you feel excited and give you something to look forward to.
10. Start or continue a journal. Writing can be a great way to express how you feel and check-in with your emotions. Or, it can just be a place to doodle or draw. Make it whatever you need.
11. Reconnect with someone. Call an old friend – or even a grandparent or parent.
12. Do an at-home spa day. Taking a bubble bath, using a face mask or doing a DIY pedicure can all be affordable ways to help yourself feel cared for. A candle, essential oils and relaxing tunes can all add to the spa vibe.
13. Go exploring. Pull up a map and find a new area of town that you haven’t been to yet.
14. Practice mindfulness. Try meditation or make a list of 10 things you are thankful for.
15. Do a needs assessment. How did your last week go? Is there anything you could do to make next week better? Maybe you need more sleep, more social time or to prepare some healthy meals before your next busy week. Take a moment to reflect and think about how you can make time for whatever you need to best care for yourself.