For moms, free time is as precious as gold. After all, between raising a child, maintaining a career, and keeping up with social obligations, mothers tend not to have a lot of time to themselves. Yet, it’s important for hard-working moms to give themselves a break every once in a while. Everyone needs time to relax and unwind, and if you don’t look after yourself, no one will. With that in mind, today we’ll look at five ways moms can make the most of their free time so they can come back refreshed and energized:

Find a Trustworthy Sitter

Sometimes moms are lucky to have a support group of friends and family members who are more than happy to step in and babysit when they need a night off. However, other parents aren’t so fortunate. Regardless, it’s imperative to find a certified care centre through platforms like Toddle, or enlist a babysitter who you can trust to handle any situation. The last thing you want to do with your precious time off is to spend it worrying or constantly checking in on your little one.

Catch up With Old Friends

One unfortunate reality of parenthood is that moms may not get to spend as much time with their friends as they used to. This is particularly true for friends and acquaintances who don’t have kids. As such, one of the best ways moms can enjoy their time off is to catch up with old friends. Head to a bar, see an R-rated movie, and indulge in the company of other adults.

Turn Down the Volume

Motherhood is plagued by noise pollution. Tantrums, blaring TVs, mind-numbing children’s songs –– they all can work to get on the nerves of stressed-out parents. What better way to unwind, then, than by taking in some much-deserved quiet time. Spending a few hours in your local library, for instance, will let you take it easy in peaceful silence.

Prepare for the Future

Have a big family trip on the horizon? Or are you thinking about making a career change? If you’ve got a pressing event coming up soon, taking a day to yourself to weigh your options and prepare for the future can be hugely beneficial.

Chill Out!

Life in general –– and motherhood specifically –– is often tumultuous and frustrating. So do your best to chill out and relax how you see fit when you manage to wrangle some free time. Hit your local skin care clinic, get a massage, visit a spa, or just kick back on the couch. Remember, this day is all about you and what you want.