Stress Relief Requires Taking Care of Yourself

Today was a horrible day.   My youngest nine year old autistic son and my twelve year old bipolar son have darn near driven me insane.  They have been physically attacking one another and verbally assaulting one another to a point that I am in shock and at the

end of my wits.  Then I realized it was pretty much a normal day, just slightly elevated in intensity, but I was unable to deal with it properly because I am exhausted and have not been getting any "me" time.  I transformed into a demonic mother, and that could be putting it mildly.

Have you ever been there?  If so answer the following questions along with me...

• Are you eating three healthy meals a day plus healthy snacks.  Minimizing sugar, white flour, artificial ingredients and those unhealthy fats?
• Are you exercising three to four times per week? 
• Are you participating in a personal activity that feeds your inner being, your soul?  You know...listening to music, crafting, meditating, reading, dancing?
• Are you getting any alone time with your spouse?
• Are you getting adequate sleep?
• Are you spending supportive time with friends?
• Are you addressing any issues with your physical or mental health?

So how are you doing when it comes to taking care of yourself?  Thought so.  We must not feel selfish in taking the much needed "me" time.  Look at the situation this way...When you are exhausted and stressed, your child suffers.  It really is not your child's fault you are having such a bad day.  Take a look at the big picture and try to relax as much as possible.  Even little things throughout the day can help alleviate building stress...

• Take a few slow, deep breaths
• Wash your face
• Have a cup of tea
• Gaze out the window for a few moments
• Step outside for fresh air
• Do a few slow stretches

Then remember that when they finally leave home, you'll miss even the hard parts of raising children.

What do you do for "me" time?  Tell me the little ways you relieve stress throughout the day...please.