That’s easy – anywhere you want! I prefer to take Rejuvacations in a city other than the one in which I live. Doing so eliminates the temptation to run home for something forgotten or to check on something that is actually just fine without you for a few hours. Doing so can easily lead to being trapped back into the home cycle, defeating the purpose of getting away. However, to each her own. If you’re able to grab an AirBnB or a hotel room in town…or perhaps you house-sit for a neighbor whose home will sit empty while on work travel, go for it!
Otherwise, choose a place that you enjoy that fits within your budget. Splurge if you can but pinch a penny if you must…the important part is that you get away by yourself.
A common misconception is that the [home], [family], [kids], etc will fall apart while you are away. This is simply not true. The world will spin just fine while you’re on a brief hiatus. The idea is to take a personal break to regroup so you can return with and to warm hugs and smiling faces.
But what if I need to let my family know I’m okay?
There’s nothing wrong with that and in fact – you should check in for safety reasons. However, try to limit extensive conversations that will emotionally pull you out of Rejuvacation mode before you’re ready.
If you have younger kids…
Rejuvacations for moms of younger kids is a more difficult proposition than when you have older kids. As mentioned earlier, planning is key. List all of your responsibilities and make sure to communicate them with people you trust prior to your departure. Although the preference is to not call home during a Rejuvacation, that rule may need to bend a bit as smaller children are greatly impacted by a parent being away. Use your discretion, remembering to prioritize yourself and your space above all else.
This is even harder to do if your child(ren) has special needs or is still very young. In this case, your planning may extend to introducing a trusted caretaker a few weeks in advance so that the child (and you) feel more comfortable while you’re away.
Also, you may consider that your first time away isn’t an overnight stay. Perhaps you spend an hour away for the first time, and gradually work your way up to being able to stay away overnight. There’s no need to rush if you’re not comfortable.
Where do you go for an hour? Great question. Perhaps you go to a nice park on a lovely day and journal. Maybe you hang out in a friend’s guest room while they’re away at work. In my local area, a day spa will allow you to use their amenities for a flat rate, without you booking a massage/spa appointment. My first rejuvacation was 3 hours luxuriating in the amenity of their quiet room, in one of their plush and comfy robes. It was the best $50 I’d spent in a long time. Do your research and find out what’s available to you in your area.
