How to Create 15-Minutes for Me Time

If you’re anything like me, finding time for myself is one of my biggest challenges. Here I rounded up 10 self-care things that take 15-minutes or less to do. I can usually find 15 minutes every day for myself and hopefully with these ideas, you can too.

Paint your nails: Love the colors and quality of Essie and Olive and June. With an at home manicure kit it's easy to give yourself a mani and pedi. Full disclosure: it did take me a while to learn to paint with my non-dominate hand, but a few attempts was all it took. Now I paint my nails every Sunday night as part of my self-care routine.

Savor a cup of tea or coffee: Brew your favorite beverage and take a few minutes to enjoy it without distractions. I'm writing this blog on a Saturday morning when no one is awake! It's quiet and glorious. Waking up just before everyone else so I get 15-minutes of quiet with my coffee is life-changing.

Quick journaling: Spend a few minutes jotting down thoughts, affirmations, or things you're grateful for in a journal. Here are a couple journal options to help you get started:

• The Honest Mom Journal - I follow this woman on social media and I love her honesty.

• The 5-Minute Gratitude Journal - For something more prompted and structured.

• A blank journal - For your own free-form exercise.

Take a walk: Step outside for a brisk walk around the block, focusing on your surroundings and sensations.

Meditate: Use a meditation app or online resources to engage in a calming meditation that helps reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Mini skincare ritual: Treat yourself to a quick facial mask, moisturizing session, or apply some relaxing aromatherapy oils.

Listen to a podcast: Take a moment to catch up on your favorite podcast episode. (Bonus: do it while walking or painting your nails, and get double the return.)

Gentle yoga: Practice a few yoga poses or flows that focus on relaxation and mindfulness. All you need is an app like Downward Dog and yoga mat. My oldest kid loves to do this with me, so sometimes we do yoga together and it's a great stress reliever and bonding time. Sometimes I will make it a me-only time though.

Aromatherapy session: Choose a favorite essential oil or a calming blend, diffuse it in your space, and take a moment to relax and inhale the calming scent. 

Quick creative session: Grab whatever creative medium you lean towards, such as knitting, drawing, coloring, crafting. Paint by Sticker books are my personal favorite because I'm honestly not artistically inclined at all!

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