I know the feeling. You are so tired of being in the house day after day, but the thought of getting yourself and your menagerie of munchkins ready to go out feels so daunting you just can’t bring yourself to do it.
I’m here to tell you today that you NEED to. Today’s the day; it’s time for the stay-at-home-mom to get out of the house…And I’ll tell you why.
Photo by pexels.com
1) Socializing: It is tempting to rationalize that because we, as moms, are constantly surrounded by little humans that we don’t need to go out and socialize. We may instead feel the desire to lock the bedroom door and hide under the covers just to have a moment to breathe and think our own thoughts.
While that may occasionally be necessary for keeping your sanity, allowing isolation to become our default “me” time activity does us a disservice. Adult interaction can be refreshing, giving you the support and encouragement you need to dive back into your wonderful and exhausting world of cheerios and make believe.
2) Motivating self-care: Yes, your family loves you just the way you are, and some days it is nice to not feel pressured to get ready. But simple things like taking care of your appearance can do a lot for your mental state and your general health.
I’m not saying you need to use every makeup product you own or that you shouldn’t go outside without looking like Instagram perfection. But I am saying that being a mom is hard, and sometimes spending a few minutes on yourself can really buoy you up to face the blowouts, missing shoes, and grocery store meltdowns the day will inevitably bring.
Wearing real pants with zippers and buttons can also be a useful tool in helping you manage your weight and fitness if that is something you are concerned about.
From Pinterest
3) Soaking up sunshine: A lot can be said for the benefits of just getting outside and enjoying the fresh air and scenery. The vitamin D alone has a multitude of positive health effects, including improved mood and bone strength.
Being outside often leads to being physically active, another great benefit. A walk around the block can be great “me” time, or bring the kiddos along. It could be an opportunity to open a conversation, or just enjoy the time together away from the same four walls.
4) Introducing your kids to new things: You are your kiddos’ window to the world. While Pinterest is full of ideas for entertaining your kids for hours with only a cardboard box (I jest, there are a ton of great ideas on there that I will definitely be using in the future), the world is full of exciting and educational things to share with your kids. And if they’re old enough they can even help with the planning!
From @borntobeasahm
5) Influencing others: Besides being full of milk (how I’m feeling these days) you are full of skills, experiences, and capabilities that can bless and influence those around you.
You may be thinking “As an overwhelmed mom just trying to survive, what do I have to give?” Plenty.
You can be that listening and sympathetic ear to another mom going through the same thing. Beyond our circles of friends, the ways to serve in our communities are varied and needed. Seeing your example and influence may even encourage your kids to do the same.
I know it’s hard. In fact, some days it may actually feel impossible to find the time or energy to go out in public.
Do it anyway.
Do it for you.
You do so much for your kids; do this for you. And you may find you have more to give when you get back.
Corinne is a west coast girl currently on an east coast adventure while her hubby goes to law school. A newly minted mother of one, she is learning to appreciate the challenges and blessings that come with this important role. She is thrilled to be sharing her love of strengthening women and families with you.
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Danielle is the owner of Today's the Best Day. She strives to provide creative and uplifting content in order to enrich the parenting experience for women everywhere. Danielle hopes to help you and your family to make every day the best day! 
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