There is a lot of talk out there encouraging people to be sure to find time for themselves. That it’s essential to being a good parent or partner or person and if you have time to yourself then you will be better. This makes a lot of sense, but finding that time can be really hard and for some of us, provoke guilt.

I am definitely the type of parent that needs time away from my kids to recharge and be my best for them. Even before kids I would often need downtime to recharge. Just like a lot of things in life the effort is cyclical and doesn’t always strike a perfect balance. In times that I cannot get quality time, I create small moments at home to feel like I am taking care of myself. Getting this time in doesn’t have to be a weekend away completely out of your regular life. I find if I can get an hour or two it helps reset me and I like to get creative with what I do to keep it simple. Here are some ideas for at home and away from home “me time” that can be done spur of the moment without much planning.

If you can get away.

Mani + Pedi – A trip to the spa is amazing, but can take a lot of time. Alternatively, find a good nail salon close to home that you can drop in to without an appointment. If you are a regular they usually can squeeze you in. I also tend to linger after and read trashy magazines while my nails dry.

Library or bookstore – I am having an adult rekindling with the library. We have two beautiful ones close to home. It’s a great place to go to last minute. I love it. It’s quiet, you can grab a book or magazine and sit in peace. A good bookstore is a great runner up for this too.

Weeknight dinner with a friend – I always try to have a weeknight dinner planned with a good friend every few weeks. I find it’s easier to make dinner plans during the week than weekends when everyone is busy, you can get in most restaurants easily and it's a great way to break up your work week. 

Coffee shop – Grab a book, ipad or magazine and get your favorite coffee/tea at the coffee shop. I like this option when I want a bit of bustle around me.

Walk – I like to grab the dog and my headphones and just set out on foot. I can call someone or just listen to music or a podcast. The fresh air and movement works great.

Gym or Yoga – More and more my workouts are becoming my quality time. If it’s possible, get a gym membership really close to home so you can get there quickly and spontaneously. I have also started to leave my yoga mat in my car and have the yoga schedule saved on my phone so if I have some downtime I quickly get to a class without much planning.

If you are at home.

Get sunshine – Living in California I have access to the sun most days, but even when I lived back east, if it was possible, I’d get outside. If I am home with the kids I force us all outdoors. Seeing them play and sitting in the sun for however long they will allow makes me feel like I am doing something for myself too.

Good coffee or tea – Having a glass of wine or a cocktail should go without saying as an easy way to create a little space for yourself, but sometimes you just need a little indulgence to see you through the day and it’s not an appropriate time to bust out the vino. For me, having the pre-packaged iced coffee from Peet’s or Blue Bottle in the fridge is a treat. I also love a nice cup of tea when it’s colder and keep my favorite stocked.

Take a long shower – During the newborn phase of life, a shower was my time away. Between nursing I’d hand the baby off to anyone, husband or visitor, and take a shower. In those days that was an indulgence, but even now a nice long shower without having to run out the door to work, etc is lovely. If you are one of the lucky ones and have a nice tub, even better and I'm jealous.

Meditate – I use the Calm app and even if we are all home I can go hide out for 15 minutes and get some peace.

Don’t do stuff - Sometimes you have to say no to the never ending cycle of to dos and just be. Veg out with the kids, watch reality TV or read. This does NOT include time on your device, which doesn't serve as quality recharging. 

Bake – If you like to bake this can be very meditative and calming. This one can be hard to do on a whim or with little ones, but when I can squeeze it in I feel calmer on the other side and have something yummy to eat.

Light a candle and put on good music - If all else fails and life is chaotic around me I try to light a nice candle and put on music and be happy with those tiny indulgences. 

What can I add to this list? Share yours in the comments...