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7 Ways to Take Care of You in Monroe-West Monroe

Taking care of yourself shouldn't be considered a luxury. It helps make you a better parent.

By Krystal Farnell-Publisher, Monroe-West Monroe January 21, 2021

As parents or caregivers, sometimes it seems we spend all of our time taking care of our family's needs, especially now in Monroe-West Monroe during COVID when everyone is home more. 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 in Monroe-West Monroe, even during the time of COVID:

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?

  • Lincoln Parish Park in Ruston, LA
  • Black Bayou Lake

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:

  • Rawz- West Monroe
  • Iron Cactus Mexican- Calhoun
  • Fieldhouse Bar and Grill- Monroe

3. Find your "people"

Join a Monroe-West Monroe parenting group on Facebook or find a local club or organization that matches your interests. 

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 Monroe-West Monroe. Whichever one you choose, your newly energized self will thank you. Here are three Monroe-West Monroe spas open and with COVID precautions in place:

  • Spa Nouvelle
  • Spa Bella
  • Massage Envy

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 Monroe-West Monroe to find classes:

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 Monroe-West Monroe website!

Check our Macaroni Kid Monroe-West Monroe page for the latest ideas on family fun in Monroe-West Monroe. 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!