Time out for Mom

     Mom, set your sights on renewal this spring and out your needs first.

     Stop making yourself wait for delayed gratification that always falls off the end of your to-do list. Instead, go straight for the most pleasurable experiences you can imagine.

If you start each day in a happy way, your anxiety will evaporate. When you focus on the things that make you genuinely joyful, you become a happier person — not allowing the martyrdom of motherhood to settle like a dreary mantle on your weary shoulders.

     Moms who put themselves at the top of their own priority list have good vibes to spare. They are quick to smile, more generous, and don’t sweat the small stuff, as they are happy, more magnetic, and fun.

     So what are you waiting for, mom? Become a breath of fresh air in your own life this spring. These time-out tips will help you put yourself first, today and every day.

Rise and shine

     You’ll bounce out of bed each morning if you start the day with a tall glass of lemon water. Squeeze half a lemon into the bottom of a tall glass and fill with tepid water. Then enjoy every sip because your waking body needs hydration before coffee, tea or any other breakfast beverage.

Inspiration first

     Begin each day with some wise words. You can keep a motivational book by your bed, have inspirational messages delivered to your inbox, or use an app on your phone. Let the feelings of goodness well up in you. Don’t feel rushed to spend them right away. Then, when your needle is on full, move through the day with the calm confidence of a woman who has nurtured herself.

Refresh some paint

     Nothing says, “Hello spring!” like coating some old furniture a bright new shade. Chairs, shelves, vases, even tables will make a brand new statement with a new layer of paint or two.

Floral fever

     Flowers summon spring into the house, even if it’s still chilly outside. So, pull out your favorite floral linens and spread them around —tablecloths, napkins, towels, pillows, and throws in flowery prints will drive away winter. Put away the winter woolens and pull out the gauzy spring scarves, tall umbrellas, and colorful rain boots.

Branch Out

     Is there anything more glorious than the sight of blossoming branches? Every time you see some, stop and inhale deeply. What do they smell like? Then get out your trusty pair of garden clippers and cut a handful of branches to display at home.

     For more variety, mix branches like curly willow, pussy willow, and plum blossoms together. Or, combine shorter branches with tulips and daffodils.

Lighten up

     Spread some pastel love on your fingernails and toenails in the form of pinks, yellows, blues, and greens. Breezy, bright colors lift our energy after a long winter and help put a skip in our step.

Citrus sunshine

     Incorporate citrusy scents into your home, including lemons and limes in your home décor.

Juice it up

     Homemade superfood juice is an energizing treat that is easier to make than you might think. In a blender with two cups of orange juice combine a small handful of any of the following that you have on hand: power greens, celery, carrots, parsley, cilantro, cucumber, apple, pear, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. Strain and sip.

Laugh Your Head Off

     Streaming video makes accessing funny television shows and films easier than ever. So when life throws a curveball, give yourself a chance to laugh it all off.