As parents or caregivers, sometimes it seems we spend all of our time taking care of our family's needs. I don't know about you, but I've found all that "need" eventually makes me burn out if I don't make the effort to take care of myself too.
It's certainly a lot harder to fill your family's emotional needs if your own emotional bank account is empty.
So here are 7 ideas on how you can find that time in and around Naperville:
1. Spend time outdoors
Nothing is better for the soul than getting outside and taking time to think. A walk around the neighborhood suffices, but why not head out on your own or with a friend to a great hiking spot for an hour or two?
- Hiking spot: Ten (10) Forest Preserves and Trails in or near Naperville
- Outdoor activities: Fun in the cold and snow in or near Naperville
2. Plan a romantic date night in
I have friends whose kids can't wait for nights they get popcorn for dinner and can watch a movie on a laptop in bed. It's the height of childhood luxury! They don't know it's their parents' way of sneaking in a date night. Want to give it a try? Here are our favorite locally-owned date night places to order food from:
- Traverso's in Naperville
- Hugo's Frog Bar in Naperville
- Fiamme in Naperville
3. Find your "people"
Join a Naperville parenting group on Facebook or find a local club or organization that matches your interests.
- Join a Meet Up Group. There are many, many groups to join. Interested in a book club? Hiking? Crochet? Almost anything you can imagine.
- There is a wonderful group for moms called The Branch. This is a great resource for moms!
- Also, there is a great resource on Facebook called What's Happening in Naperville?
4. Schedule a spa day
Relax, lie back, and feel your everyday concerns wash away with a spa day. There are so many great spas to choose from in Naperville. Whichever one you choose, your newly energized self will thank you. Here are three Naperville spas to try:
- Hand and Stone Massage in Naperville.
- Arista Spa and Salon in Naperville.
- Me Spa in Naperville.
5. Try something new
It's easy to get bogged down with all of 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. Some great places in Naperville to find classes?
- Learn to paint at Pinot's Palette in Naperville
- Learn an instrument online or in person at Bach to Rock in Naperville.
- Learn how to knit online or in person at Michaels
6. Savor a few minutes of solitude
Spending time alone is good for the soul. Let your partner know you need some alone time and head off to relax -- read a book, take a bath or even just take a walk around the neighborhood. Don't feel like you always have to be doing something "productive."
7. Check the Macaroni Kid Naperville website!
Check our Macaroni Kid Naperville page for the latest ideas on family fun in Naperville. You'll find ideas there on how to find your family fun -- even during the pandemic.
Taking care of yourself is so important, and not something to be overlooked -- it will make you a better mom at the end of the day!
