As parents or caregivers, sometimes it seems we spend all of our time taking care of our family's needs, especially now on the North Shore. 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 on the North Shore.
1. 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?
- Maudslay State Park- Newburyport
- Batchelder Park Trail Loop- Amesbury
- Jennie Lagoulis Reservation- Newbury
2. 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:
- Ristorante Molise- Amesbury
- Mission Oak Grill- Newburyport
- Seaglass Oceanside- Salisbury
3. Find your "people"
Join a North Shore Area parenting group on Facebook or find a local club or organization that matches your interests.
- Greater Newburyport Families Club- Newburyport
- North Shore Moms Questions, Advice and Support
- Mother and Baby Support Group- Anna Jaques Hospital
4. Schedule a spa day
Relax, lie back, and feel your everyday concerns wash away with a spa day. There are so many great spas to choose from in the Newburyport area. Whichever one you choose, your newly energized self will thank you. Here are three Newburyport area spas open and with COVID precautions in place:
- Glow Spa and Salon- Amesbury
- Interlocks Salon- Newburyport
- Back Stage Salon and Spa & Miia Medspa- Rowley
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 the Newburyport area to find classes?
- Zach Fields Drums and Music- Newburyport
- Board and Brush- Amesbury
- Newburyport Adult & Community Education- Newburyport
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. Check the Macaroni Kid Newburyport website!
Check our Macaroni Kid North Shore page for the latest ideas on family fun in the Newburyport and North Shore areas. 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!
