As parents, we spend most of our time taking care of others which can lead to parenting burnout. It's hard to fill your little one's emotional needs if your own emotional bank account is on empty.
Prepare for car pool days, the afterschool activities whirl, and 'I don't know what to cook for dinner' nights by pampering yourself! Here are eight ways to take care of Mama (or Papa) Bear in Lynchburg:
1. Enjoy lunch with a friend. Whether you stay at home or work outside the home, lunch is a great time to meet a friend or a group of friends. It helps break up the day and gives you renewed energy to face the rest of your day. A few of our favorite lunch spots are: Market At Main on Main Street, The Neighbors Place in Wyndhurst, Magnolia Foods on Rivermont Avenue, and La Villa on Timberlake Road.
2. Find your group. Join a local parenting group on Facebook, get together with other parents from your child's school, or find a local club or organization that matches your interests. Lynchburg Moms Supporting Moms is a very popular local Facebook group. Outdoor lovers might consider joining the Natural Bridge Appalachian Trail Club, a local hiking and trail maintaining group. The Motherhood Collective offers education and social support opportunities for moms of all ages.
3. Schedule a spa day. Relax, lie back, and feel your everyday concerns wash away with a spa day at your favorite location. Your newly energize self will thank you. Two local favorites are The Salon and Spa at Acorn Hill on Old Forest Road and Maven Salon in Cornerstone.
4. Spend time outdoors. In 1845, Henry David Thoreau wrote "Walden" while secluded in the woods of Massachusetts. More than 50 years later, many scientists agree that Thoreau's meditation on life and nature is spot on. Give nature a try; you won't regret it. Here are our favorite hikes off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
5. Try a new hobby or activity. It's easy to get bogged down with life's busyness. Take a little time away and explore an activity or hobby you've always wanted to try. From individual hobbies like photography or quilting to group activities like paint nights, running or cycling groups, there's something for everyone. Lynchburg Road Runners Club has promoted running in Lynchburg for over 30 years. Patches 'n Pieces Quilt Club promotes the art form of quilting and gives back to the community by providing quilts for those in need.
6. Plan a romantic date night. Enlist the help of grandparents or exchange date night babysitting with a friend. Have dinner at your favorite restaurant, enjoy a movie or theater performance, or take a walk outdoors at sunset. Where you go doesn't matter, but having your partner along will make the night special.
7. Savor the solitude. Spending time alone is good for the soul. Read a book after the kids are in bed, take a walk in your neighborhood alone, or go for a drive to nowhere special.
8. Check the Lynchburg Macaroni Kid calendar. There are many fun family-friendly events which are also perfect to attend alone, with a friend, or with your partner. Subscribe to receive a FREE weekly listing of events and activities, as well as articles and guides about local family fun. Let Lynchburg Macaroni Kid help you Find Your Family Fun® and your grownup fun all year long!
Take a few minutes out of your busy life and charge your emotional battery by taking care of yourself. You'll feel happier and healthier!
