Tricks to scoring alone time in a busy household

If you’re a mom with young children, it may seem impossible to score some much-needed alone time. Good news: We know how to get away from even the busiest household to relax and recharge. (And we’re not above hiding in the bathroom to do it!).

You’re a good mom. A champion cuddler, prize-winning snack maker, storyteller, hide-and-seek player and listener. And guess what — you deserve a break! Never feel guilty for needing some time just for you. It recharges your soul, gives you a breather and allows you to put yourself first for a few precious moments. Plus, if Mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy!

Time-outs aren’t just for the kids. When you need a few minutes to yourself, set your kids up with an activity and tell them you’ll be in the bedroom. If they have trouble remembering, put a sticky note on the door or hang a sign reminding them you’re taking a Mama break.

If you’ve never tried meditation, it’s an effective way to clear your mind — and you can do it in the comfort of your own home. Find a comfortable spot, close your eyes and focus on your breathing. This can be done when the kids are napping, watching a show or having a little quiet time of their own.

Yes, it may seem a little crazy, but desperate times sometimes call for desperate measures. If you simply have no other way to enjoy some solitude, head to the bathroom and lock the door for privacy. Bring a book or your iPod and stay as long as you like — or at least until the kids start banging on the door.

If you need to get some things done around the house, find a neighbor or friend’s older daughter to come over and entertain your kids. Typically, mother’s helpers are less expensive than babysitters because you’re at home.

Is there anything better than slipping into a hot bath at the end of a long day? Relax and unwind with a glass of wine, a magazine and a few squares of your favorite chocolate. Ah, pure bliss. If you prefer showers to baths, take an extra-long shower with scented shower gel. Aromatherapy to the rescue!

When every moment of the day is consumed by kids, work and household chores, even a simple trip to the grocery store — alone — can seem like an indulgent getaway. Go slowly. Stroll the aisles. Take the long way home.

Set your alarm and start your day before the family is up. Take your cup of coffee out on the porch and watch the sun come up. Enjoying this magical time of day by yourself can be extremely rejuvenating.

Pick one day of the week when you’re going to pursue a particular interest in the evening after the kids go to bed. Schedule this time to work on a passion project and not on folding laundry, packing lunches or doing dishes.

More ways to indulge

Host a girls-only getaway
Our favorite 30-seconds-of-me-time snacks
10 Fabulous weekend destinations for quiet time