Understanding “Me” Time
“Me” time might feel a bit like a foreign concept, but we’re here to help you explore what “me” time looks like for you and why we recommend it for everyone!
What Is “me” time?
“Me” time is time you spend focusing on YOU and your needs.
Throughout the day, everyone needs different things to keep themselves happy and healthy. It can be as simple as taking a few minutes to take a warm shower, going for a walk or workout, or taking a break to watch a funny video.
The good side of “me” time
“Me” time might sound self-serving and selfish, especially when you’re caring for kids or other family members. At the end of the day, when you spend time meeting your needs, you’ll be better able to help those around you meet their needs.
When you’re taking time to meet your individual needs (whether they’re physical, emotional, or spiritual), you’re more likely to be patient, calm, and present when you’re with others.
How can It help with stress?
“Me” time is a type of self-care that will help you recharge. When you focus on your needs in the moment, you’re also shifting your focus to things that you can control instead of looking to the past or worrying about the future.
When you’re practicing self-care, you’ll find you have more energy to overcome life’s challenges and stressors that are right in front of you.
In other words, taking “me” time will help give you the energy you need to manage stress and whatever life throws at you.
Making time for you
Stuck trying to figure out what you should do with your “me” time?
Start by asking yourself a simple question (when you have a free 5 minutes is a great time to try it): what do I need right now?
The answer might be sleep, silence, to talk with someone, to decompress, or to disconnect from your phone. Whatever the answer, take the time!
If you'd like help with incorporating more "me" time into your life, download the TOVI app – it's free!
Reviewed by: Lorena Ruci, PhD, Registered Psychotherapist