Winter is here – take a moment to relax, refresh, and renew!

Don’t you agree that moms need a time out, too? Winter is one of the busiest times of the year between social expectations, long lines and the demanding super-shoppers in them, taking a minute to relax will do you some good. Of course, as moms, we find it difficult to take time for ourselves. It might be that our children are very young and need a lot of attention. Or, maybe we are not fortunate enough to have an extensive support system that allows us hours of free time. Sound familiar? Every once in a while, you might consider taking a break from the stress, but something comes up. You want to renew yourself– if only you had the time. Moms, here is some good news: take 15 minutes just for yourself every day. If you use them well, you can enhance your own wellness, boost your energy and feel beautiful from the inside out. Here are quick and easy ways to relax, refresh, and renew:

1. ENJOY AN HERBAL SPA. An Herbal Spa Wrap is packed with organic flaxseed, essential oils, eucalyptus, rosemary, peppermint, thyme, yarrow, cinnamon, wintergreen and other fine botanicals to provide deep, penetrating relief. Pull out the spa wrap, heat it in the microwave, wrap it around your neck, and let its therapeutic vapors work wonders.
2. WRITE A “NOT TO DO” LIST. Set priorities and take charge with a “Not to Do” list. Sometimes we get overwhelmed with all the things on our “To Do” list because we over commit and spend time doing activities that have no real value to us. Review your prioritized list of things that need to get done, as well as things that do not need to get done. Enjoy the satisfaction of having your priorities in order.
3. CREATE A COMFORT ZONE. Many spas have relaxation rooms to sit in before and after treatments, and it's a great thing to create at home too. It can be a space in your bedroom, but the key is having an area solely devoted to decompressing and clearing your mind.
4. BE A LITERARY BUFF. Now that cold, winter nights have made their appearance, grab a book you have been trying to read for ages, and sink yourself into it. Take the time out to read a chapter in that book. When you absorb into the book, you lose touch with outside world and immerse in the writing. Reading is a way to sharpen your mind too and keep it alert.
5. JUST MOVE IT. Take a time to exercise. Even a short ten minute segment can renew you. This not only is good for your body, but it is good for your mind as well. Walk stairs, run on the treadmill, put in an exercise DVD or tape, jump rope, or lift some weights. You will be doing yourself a favor physically at the same time you are refreshing your state of mind.
6. If you are anything like other moms, you often fly through the day, busy with work, busy with family, busy with your community, and too busy, it seems, for yourself. This winter, slow down. Don’t let life pass you by in a blur. Take a few moments for yourself, and enjoy what the winter seasons brings!