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We know we need it, a few moments to get away and unwind. Often we can feel the tension building in ourselves so strong we wonder if we will snap. And yet under even these emotional and mental pressures many mothers are reluctant to take a break.

In the 1950s family shows the mothers never needed a break. They woke each morning looking cheerful and refreshed and went to bed each night with that same perfect smile plastered on their faces. We are not TV sitcom moms, we have real stresses and issues that need to be cared for. Yet this image of motherly perfect can often still haunt us and make moms today feel guilty for turning on cartoon for a few minutes to indulge in a cup of coffee in peace. Motherhood is a fine balance. You don't want to be the mother constantly slipping away or pawning her child off onto others, and yet you cannot care for them 100% and leave nothing for yourself. You have to find the middle ground.

Taking mental health breaks, even if for just a few minutes, is so very important in keeping yourself calm. The calmer and more relaxed you are the better mother you can be. Even just a few minutes each day to breath deep and sit in silence can make all the difference in how well you parent.

If you are feeling guilty about taking some time for yourself here are some tips to help you get a break. 1) Trade babysitting with a friend. Offer to let her children come and play for an hour or two while she unwinds and in return she can watch yours for an hour while you refocus. 2) Get your spouse involved. Make it clear that without the occasional break you cannot be the best mother and wife you should be. Have him take the children to the park by himself while you de-stress alone. He'll be thankful he did when he comes back to a calmer wife at home. 3) Schedule a mandatory quiet time every day. If your children are too old for naps you can still get in a little afternoon break. Schedule a time every afternoon when evryone has to play or read quietly in their rooms. this benefits everyone as you can get a small escape and your children will have their own time to unwind.

Getting time at least once a week to yourself is one of the best things you can do as a mother. A stress free mom is a better mom.

Learn more about this author, Summer Minor.
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