Can you remember the last time you did something for yourself? Then, think about the last time you did something for somebody else. If you drew a complete blank trying to think of something you did for yourself (taking a three minute break from work e-mail to read this doesn’t count!), yet came up with an immediate list of ten things you did for others, make it a priority to schedule time to take care of you.

In a world that is constantly bombarding us with chaos, It is absolutely necessary to disconnect from the things that break us. The constant cycle of chaos adversely affects your mental, physical and emotional wellness.

If you only have an hour to spare, this is for you. All of these options can be done in the comfort of your own home, you can also take a mini-retreat outdoors.

Almost everything will work again if you unplug it. Including you. ~Anne Lamott

How to Create Your Mini-Retreat

Schedule It – Set a specific time. Make childcare arrangements if needed. Block off time on your calendar. DO NOT make last minute plans or commit to something else.

Set an Intention – An intention is not a goal. To set an intention contemplate what you need – peace, forgiveness, joy.

Prepare Your Space – Tidy and clean the area of your home before your mini-retreat. You don’t want to be tempted to do chores during your retreat time.

Make Plans for Meals – Have something already on hand (prepare it yourself or pick up something). If you enjoy cooking, let that be part of your retreat. Gather all of the ingredients so you don’t have to make a last minute run to the store (nothing kills a sense of calm like a busy grocery store!). Put on music, pour a glass of wine or iced tea and find joy cooking a nutritious and delicious meal just for you.

Turn Off All of Your Devices – Including cellphones, tablets, laptops, TVs. Even go so far as putting your cellphone and tablet in a place you won't see them.

Set the Mood – During the day, open the curtains and enjoy the sunshine. In the evening, use candles or a lamp to create a cozy feeling. Buy flowers from the grocery store or bring greenery inside. If you enjoy a scented environment, use essential oils or a candle, choosing scents for a calming or invigorating effect, depending on your intention. Put on soothing or uplifting music for your mood.

Ideas

• Pamper Yourself with a Bubble Bath, Face Mask or a Manicure/Pedicure
• Seek Out Peace and Quiet - then Journal, Meditate or Sit Quietly and Observe
• Nurture Your Creativity - Writing, Painting or Drawing, Knitting, Vision Board, Coloring or Creating in the Kitchen
• Read - Something you’ve always wanted to read or an old favorite..
• Do Something You Enjoy but You Don't Make Time for on a Regular Basis - Yoga Class, Bike Ride, Nature Walk or Gardening.

Avoid

• Binge watching
• Social media and news
• Chores
• Work
• Any mundane daily activity that you “need” to do

Spend your time doing the things you want to do, not the things you need to do. Make your Mini-Retreat a part of your routine by adding it to your calendar. Pausing to push reset will allow you to find rest, renewal, a new perspective and so much more.

Start planning today.

If you're a working mom, research has shown the more time you spend taking care of yourself equals improved physical and emotional health for their children. Read more here.