SALT LAKE CITY — Being a mom is one of the hardest jobs in the world; one most women do not get enough credit for.

Amid all the hustle and bustle that comes with being a mother, it's easy to get down and depressed. And if you aren’t happy with your life, mental health experts say it will affect your children.

One of the reasons some mothers struggle is because they don’t get any time for themselves. Their lives revolve around their children, spouse and possibly a job too.

Here are some ways you can find some "me time" during your busy day:

1. Take advantage of your time alone

All young children nap, right? Their bedtime must be much earlier than when you go to bed too. Take full advantage of the times when your children are asleep or are being watched by your spouse. Savor these moments and do things that relax you. This could be anything from sneaking in your daily exercise routine that gives you a boost of energy you need, getting into a warm bubble bath to calm your senses, or calling a friend over. You won’t get many chances to be alone, so take advantage of the little time that you do get.

2. Child-friendly stores

Shopping with children is one of the most infuriating activities for parents. Your children hate it because, for a moment, you’re not the center of their attention. Shopping is also kind of boring for them. Expect children to throw tantrums when you’re at the grocery store or doing any other shopping.

It’s much easier to shop without your children: you’ll be more relaxed and it will take you less time. Look for shopping centers where they have monitored playrooms for you to drop off your kids at. Shopping will go smoothly and your children will get some time to play as well.

Most of these playrooms will have a time limit, but even if it’s just 30 minutes, the peace and quiet is worth it.

3. Schedule time for yourself

Moms neglect the fact that they themselves need some time for themselves where they do what makes them happy. Every week, block out a couple of hours for yourself where your children are being watched by a babysitter or your spouse. Don’t take this lightly, know that it’s needed for your well-being. It’s best to use this time to get yourself out of mom-mode and use it to be with your friends or head to the spa for some pampering.

4. Read when your children play

Reading is the oldest form of escapism. Real life doesn’t seem so hectic when you’re thinking about a good book at the same time. When your children are busy playing with toys or watching Barney, sit yourself on the couch and get your head into a good book. Reading has a way of blocking out all the distractions around, it really is the simplest way of relaxing yourself while watching your children at the same time.

5. Partner with another mom

It’s always easier when there’s two of you, find yourself a mom (someone whose company you enjoy) who has children around the same age as yours. Plan playdates with her where your children play amongst each other while you guys spend some quality time together. Being around the kids all the time can get overwhelming for everyone, but when you have a friend to share the time with it doesn’t seem so bad.

Your friend can also help you when you really just need to spend some time by yourself. You can take turns watching over the kids just so the both of you get some quality alone time every week.

Raising children isn’t easy. And if your life before kids was about putting yourself on top, it can get frustrating when it suddenly revolves around the children and requires a lot of your time be spent at home. Be sure to make time for yourself whenever you can so you can keep your mind calm and continue being an awesome mom.

About the author: Zyana Morris is a passionate health and lifestyle blogger who loves to write about prevailing trends. Currently, she is associated as a blogger with Hourglass Express, providers of quality waist trainers, belly bands, and other weight loss products.

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