The Tribune

By Bianca Carter

Bun In The Oven

Fast-paced lives leave little time to take care of things that are good for our soul. Most women manage to get in weekly exercise as a part of their health routine, but finding peace and time for the things that make us truly happy and feeling rejuvenated is a bit more difficult.

Many factors other than time come into the picture when trying to do things that are good for us. Time,comes and goes faster than we like to believe, so making a strict and conscious effort to take time to recharge is essential.

The rule we need to start living by is this: we take care of ourselves so that we can continue to take care of others. There’s no shame, weakness or guilt in that. You show up for everyone else and everything else; show up for yourself too and make taking care of yourself a top priority.

Here are simple mommy pleasures to rejuvenate:

• Start your day with positivity

Before you get out of bed, think about what you are thankful for and what makes you happy. It doesn’t have to be complicated or involved thoughts. Even if it’s just thinking about one thing that makes you happy, think about it. Let your mind take you wherever it goes. If you find yourself thinking about what you’re going to pack for lunch, re-focus on an image that brings you joy and stay there for a few minutes. Our brains are usually in overdrive and programmed into thinking of all the things we need to do, didn’t do, or should be doing. This is why our brains never seem to shut off at night when we are trying to sleep. Practice makes perfect, so keep working on this one. And yes, give yourself permission to think about what you want instead of your to-do list.

• Reading is good for the mind and soul

This is one of the things that many busy people say they wish they did more of or had more time to do. Reading is the gateway to unlocking your imagination. Ever read a book that left you sad because it had ended; a book whose characters leave an impression on you? If you don’t like to read, get an audio book so that you can just listen. Books give you a sense of freedom; they allow you to connect with your inner thoughts and imagination, and give you an outlet for joy and happiness.

• Participate in physical activity that relaxes you

Walks on the beach or yoga are both good for relaxing. Find something that will relax you and involves some activity outdoors. I’ve heard that the human soul needs to connect to nature to be at peace. We’re lucky here that we have so many beautiful places to connect outdoors.

• Treat yourself to a facial mask

You don’t have to go anywhere fancy to do this. You can buy a facial mask at the local pharmacy. A face mask works best when applied at night time. After washing your face, rub some of the mask on and follow the product’s instructions. Facial masks make your skin feel rejuvenated, clean and fresh.

• Make more time for whatever makes you feel alive and refreshed

Learn to set limits for yourself and that saying no to things is OK. You don’t need to push yourself 100 per cent of the time.

These simple mommy pleasures will rejuvenate you so that you can be your best.

Love and hugs!

• Bianca Carter is a certified lactation counsellor (CLC), founder of Bun in the Oven, and weekend radio personality on Y98 radio. For more information, e-mail her at info@babybunintheoven.com, or bcarter@tribunemedia.net. Follow BITO on Facebook at babybunintheoven, and check out the BITO®Blog every Monday and Thursday at http://babybunintheoven.com.