As parents or caregivers, sometimes it seems we spend all of our time taking care of our family's needs, especially now in Winnipeg during COVID when everyone is home more. I don't know about you, but I've found all that "need" eventually makes me burn out if I don't make the effort to take care of myself too.
It's certainly a lot harder to fill your family's emotional needs if your own emotional bank account is on empty.
So here are 7 ideas on how you can find that important time for yourself too in Winnipeg, even during the time of COVID:
1. Sign up for a Virtual Retreat
We might not be able to gather with large groups right now but there are still opportunities together with other to build yourself up and feel refreshed. On May 21st/22nd Macaroni Kid Winnipeg and Rise and Shine Kids Yoga are hosting a Virtual Mom Retreat. Get your tickets now and make some time for you.
2. Spend time outdoors
Nothing is better for the soul than getting outside and taking time to think. A walk around the neighborhood suffices, but why not head out on your own or with a friend to a great hiking spot for an hour or two away? Check out our list of Family Favourite Hiking & Walking Trails in and around Winnipeg.
3. Plan a romantic date night in
I have friends whose kids can't wait for nights they get popcorn for dinner and can watch a movie on a laptop in bed. It's the height of childhood luxury! They don't know it's their parents' way of sneaking in a date night during COVID. Want to give it a try? Here are our favorite locally-owned date night places to order food from:
- Deer + Almond
- SMITH Restaurant
- inferno's Bistro (random fact: this is where Dan and I had our first date)
- Gohe (one of our go to date night take out)
- Nuburger
4. Find your "people"
Join a Winnipeg parenting group on Facebook or find a local club or organization that matches your interests.
5. Try something new
It's easy to get bogged down with all of life's "busyness." Take a little time away and explore an activity or hobby you've always wanted to try. From individual hobbies like photography or quilting to group activities like paint nights, running, or cycling groups, there's something for everyone. Some great places in Winnipeg to find classes?
- Cooking classes through The Food Studio
- Art Classes through the WAG
- Sign up for some post-secondary classes:
6. Savor a few minutes of solitude. Spending time alone is good for the soul. Let your partner know you need some alone time and head off to relax -- read a book, take a bath or even just take a walk around the neighborhood. Don't feel like you always have to be doing something "productive."
7. Talk to some one.
Some times looking after yourself means reaching out to a professional to talk through things. Did you know that as of October 2020, every Manitoba resident age 16 or older has access to up to two free counselling sessions with a trained professional through Morneau Shepell if you are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety & depression due to the pandemic? The program is called AbilitiCBT and its confidential and accessible from home on your computer, smartphone or tablet. For more information on services available in Manitoba check out the provincial website.
Also don't forget to check our Macaroni Kid Winnipeg page for the latest ideas on family fun in Winnipeg. You'll find ideas there on how to find your family fun -- even during the pandemic.
Taking care of yourself is so important, and not something to be overlooked -- it will make you a better mom at the end of the day!
