Self Care in 5 Minutes

As special needs parents, it can feel like we have zero time for ourselves. We might even laugh if someone suggests ‘self care’ to us because really, when would we have time for that?

But, is it possible that you are missing out on opportunities to take care of yourself in little pockets of time? Self care doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective. Even if you only have five minutes, you can do something that can have a big impact on your mood.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Read a few pages
• Step outside and enjoy some sunshine
• Watch a TedTalk
• Work on a puzzle
• Look at photos
• Play music and dance
• Let your mind wander
• Plan something fun (date night, outfit, dessert, weekend getaway)
• Eat a treat very slowly
• Enjoy silence
• Watch a funny video
• Stretch
• Make a cup of tea
• Hug someone
• Watch the clouds
• Look at the stars
• Text a friend

What’s your favorite way to practice self-care when you only have a short amount of time to do it?