Guest Author - Jacqueline Geller

How can moms blow off steam without blowing off the family?

How about those days when Mom wants to get in the car, get on the highway and just keep driving?

There are ways to get away for a while without blowing either the budget or the family’s psyche.

Instead of driving off into the sunset a la Thelma and Louise, why not turn up the radio and dance around the house to some fast moving music? Who cares if the kids are home? Get them in on the act too! Not only is this a great stress buster, but it’s also fabulous exercise!

If the kids aren’t home, grab a hair brush, belt out some songs and unleash your inner rock star! A few numbers belted out at full blast will diffuse any steam that may have been building up, as well as increase those positive vibes!

A brisk walk can do the trick, as well as swimming a few laps at the local Y.

A favorite activity also helps to blow off steam. Pursuing a hobby or pleasurable activity for as little as 15 minutes a day can make Mom feel better about herself and her role in the family. “Me” time is important every day and teaches the family that Mom has a life also.

A trip to the department store to visit the make-up counter is also a nice “me” treat. Free consultations and makeovers are nearly always available. Purchases are not required, but a new shade of eye shadow or lipstick is always a boost to the spirit.

The library is a great spot to regroup and regenerate. It’s quiet, soothing and free. Why not check out the new mystery by a favorite author and relax in a comfy chair to read for a while? Use the computer to check email without being disturbed. Check out the latest video offerings or the latest issues of favorite magazines. The local public library has it all!

Of course, a bubble bath is always a great relaxer, particularly when accompanied by a good book and a cool drink. The kids need to be out for this though, because they have extra sensors that tell them when Mom is relaxed, which is when they knock on the door—or just barge in!

Mom’s life is always busy and complicated, so it’s easy to make excuses for WHY there isn’t time for her. If the family machine is to keep purring along though, Mom needs to take care of herself so that she can take care of everyone else.