Now that we know why you need to make time for yourself, let’s talk about ways to incorporate this time seamlessly, painlessly, and guilt-free into your day!

Use existing blocks of time to your advantage: Do the kids still nap? If so, you nap too! As tempting as it is, do not use this time to play “catch-up!” If you can’t nap, read, knit, listen to music, or do something you find soothing. Avoid television, newspapers or anything that might “amp you up” or make you start thinking of all the things you need to do.

Make “power blocks”: New moms find even a quick shower to be a miraculous event! Use this to your advantage. Make your quick shower time, luxurious “you” time - use aromatherapy, like lavender or some other soothing, calming scent. Using pampering products can go a long way toward restoring your equilibrium, and helping you to feel renewed! On a budget and can’t, or don’t want to, splurge? Make a wish-list online, so family and friends can indulge you on special days!

Block it out: Experts say make a date with yourself! If you put it In your pda or on your calendar (in ink!), you will do it! These don’t have to be big chunks of time … cat naps and “power showers” are amazing things!

Keep at least one pre-adoption commitment: Did you go to meetings like Weight Watchers, craft circle, or book discussion club? Trade childcare with another parent or your spouse, and keep your night out.

Use your kids’ “downtime”: Are you an early bird? Night owl? Use the time before they wake up or after they go to sleep. You can read in bed, go to the gym (provided you have another adult to help or trade off with), engage in a hobby (sewing, scrapbooking, knitting, etc.)

These are not easy things to do because of our “parental guilt,” but if you can only do one thing on this list on a fairly consistent basis, you will have gone a long way toward keeping yourself refreshed for your own sake, as well as that of your family!