Because We're Worth It

In our busy world as parenting moms, we rarely, if ever take time for ourselves. Many mothers say they don’t have time, but really they just won’t make the time.

In order to stay on top of things and take care of people, moms need to make the time to recharge and re-energize themselves and keep healthy. Parents usually feel pressure to give everything to their children that they end up forgetting to take care of their own needs. Sometimes they can feel that time spent on themselves is selfish, but ironically, doing so can help make them better parents.

For those of you that don't know I teach an adult tap class here in West Islip (as well as take an adult hip hop class). It just seems to get harder and harder to get adults to come in and attend the classes. I find myself getting frustrated and wondering why this happens. But then I realized the real reason behind it, because I lived it until a few years ago. When you become an adult and especially a parent, it seems that you forget that you are still a person with a life and with needs.

In addition to taking care of everyone else, busy moms need to take care of themselves too. One of the best reasons a mom should take a mom's night out is because it gives her a chance to feel like an actual person. A night out for mom means being able to have some adult conversation, being able to interact without it being about something child related. Interacting without children can be really good for a mom. It helps her appreciate her kids far more. Sometimes having some time away from your kids helps you realize how much you enjoy them. This also means a chance for mom to relax, refresh and unwind, and let go of the stress of being a mom.

So obviously I am not saying everyone should necessarily take a dance class (although you are welcome to come join me), adults have to remember that we were once people with hobbies, dreams and LIVES!! So age doesn't make that go away. So whether it is a dance class, a bowling team, joining a gym, playing a sport, joining a book club, going back to school, or anything that is just for you and your enjoyment, it is important to take that time for yourself. You owe it to yourself and your family to be the best PERSON you can be.....because you are worth it!!