It doesn’t matter if you are busy parents (of young children or teens), overwhelmed at work, or a caregiver to your aging parent or a spouse who is recovering from surgery —- most of us could use a break. I know – right away you are saying “I don’t have time for that.” But the science supports that we could all benefit from a “Me Day” or a little “Self-Care” time.
Studies have found that taking a “Me Day” break may help you sleep better, inspire creativity, improve relationships, increase productivity, boost happiness, and lower rates of depression. Easy examples to see in life are the study break you took when cramming for an exam or a coffee break at work. You gave your brain a little time to recharge and could power through.
If you feel like you are just too busy to take the “Me Day” break, start with just 30-minutes of me time and see if you can’t build up to a few hours or even a day. Just like you schedule a meeting at work or with the PTA or schedule a medical appointment – you would benefit from some scheduled “Me” time. Prioritize “Me” time activities that give you a break from screens so that you don’t negate your “Me” time with poor sleep quality or anxiety.
Ideas for your “Me Day” or break to recharge may include: 
- Take a bath.
- Do a puzzle.
- Take walk or hike.
- Do some star gazing.
- Try meditation.
- Enjoy gardening.
- Crafting, sewing, quilting, pottery, or other hand crafts.
- Do yoga or dance.
- Listen to music.
- Journaling your thoughts.
- Or my favorite – reading or listening to a book.
What can you add to the list that is something you can do on your own, without a screen? Schedule your own “Me Day” or at a minimum “Me Break” in the next month.
Writer: Lisa Barlage, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Ross County.
Reviewer: Misty Harmon, Assistant Professor, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Perry County.