As a mom to three kids with big voices and huge personalities, it can be tricky to get a word in edgewise. It can also be tricky to even think when you have all the things in your head and all their voices yammering away all day long. I’ve found that as a mom, I desperately need my alone time to decompress. Time completely and totally by myself to come back to me, to feel refreshed, and to be a better mom, wife, and person.

Though I make it a priority to exercise as much as I can, sometimes I need even more alone time. I’m talking a few hours to be completely, blissfully, and undeniably alone. So about once a year I go to a local hotel and spend a night all by myself — a solo staycation. Just me, a king size bed, a TV all to myself, and room service. I recommend every mom give this a try if it’s possible for you and your family.

In theory, it sounds kind of romantic and exciting. It’s anything but.

I literally take some time all by myself to be alone with my thoughts. I need that little bit of time to relax and feel more like myself again. Every time I do this I have visions of indulging in spa treatments, swimming in the hotel pool, getting in a morning workout, and eating fancy food alone. The reality is this: I read a book while eating dinner alone, I take a long, hot shower, and I sprawl out in a bed all by myself with terrible movies on and a bottle of wine on the bedside table. I go to the bathroom alone, sleep uninterrupted, and eat a hot meal. I sleep as late as I dare (11 a.m.!) and take my time getting myself ready in the morning.

For a full 18 hours, I hole up in my room for a day and don’t do a thing. I take a little time to recharge my batteries and come back from my time away a lot calmer than I was when I left. I’m excited to get back to my family and the normalcy of life, and I go back with fewer bags under my eyes and a more relaxed attitude.

While I felt a bit selfish the first time I tried this (that mom guilt is so real), I remind myself that self-care is not negotiable. As moms, we are always putting ourselves last. It’s not selfish to take care of yourself. So whether you do get to spend some time alone in a hotel room (check Groupon for some great deals!), or even go to the bathroom by yourself, don’t forget to take care of you. When mom is happy, everything is so much better.

Morgan Sheena
Morgan came to Boston via New Jersey for college and law school and never left. She married her college sweetheart, Solomon, in October 2007. After years of trying to find themselves, they added three beautiful and energetic children, Aaron (October 2010), Olivia (June 2013), and Jesse (May 2016) to the family. They also have brother and sister miniature schnauzers, Rufio and Gracie. They live in Brookline and love city living.  Morgan is also a travel planner at Whitney World Travel and loves helping her clients find the perfect vacation for them. Loves: Exploring Boston, traveling, trying new restaurants, all things Disney, dive bars, blanco tequila, cooking elaborate meals, black coffee, dry red wine, working out, watching mindless movies (and quoting them) and getting lost in a good book. Can't Stand: when people snap their gum, cigarettes, loud chewing noises, cleaning floors and snakes.

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