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My Relaxing Escape
I know that as a special needs mother, taking time for myself sometimes seems impossible. But, I found an easy way to feel like I’ve escaped to the spa for the “full treatment”. Each month, I sneak away for a relaxing retreat. I bring a favorite drink with me (either from home, or I purchase it in route). It could be a hot cup of coffee, tea or even cool drink. Heck, over the years, I have even stopped by a 7-Eleven for a sugar free Icee. What ever my mood dictates… it’s “my” time. Then, I go to a local a nail salon. I make sure it is one where there is no pressure to have an appointment, a salon that accommodates walk-ins and can fit my crazy schedule. I pick out a beautiful color to match the season… this month was a “coral-ly pink” color in honor of Mother’s Day and Summer. I also ask the manicurist for the best pedicure massage chair. One that is fully operational in all areas of massage. I grab several old magazines to catch up on style, stars, travel and cooking (no magazines about parenting, though). I climb into the pedicure chair. Once situated, I make sure I am able to grab my drink without much effort. I adjust the chair massager so that every part of my head, neck, and back is fully getting a massage. As the manicurist begins working on my feet, I begin to relax and enjoy the massage. Here is my secret tip… I make sure that the chair never stops massaging… most will stop after 20 to 25 minutes. I make sure the chair never stops massaging. If the salon is not crowded, I ask the manicurist if I can stay until my toes are dry (continuing with massage). I usually end up with about 45 minutes of a massage on my neck, back, calves AND my toes are now pretty with a new “pop” of color. I feel relaxed and pampered. Since I make a rule with myself that I will not do my toes, I am assured of getting this pampering treatment again in a month. To me, this is more economical than getting a regular massage and I don’t leave feeling like I need a shower. Plus, I get the added bonus of having my toes and feet done at the same time.
While I prefer to have this treat for myself without children in tow, I have, on many occasions, brought them with me. I have girls, so I treat them to a manicure or even a pedicure as well. For boys, however, you could treat them as well or prepare a video (in advance) to watch or a game on smart phone or iPad. On the days I had to bring children, it was definitely an Icee day.
Taking time for myself sometimes seems impossible. But, I found an easy way to enjoy a relaxing escape.
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This post originally appeared on our May/June 2011 Magazine [9]