It’s that time again! (“Umm, what time again?” you’re probably wondering.) Well, aside from being the first week of September, it’s that time when most of our lovely green trees start pretending to turn red and orange, when the weather is no longer threatening to hit triple digits (knock on wood), and when you’re finally starting to regret not sticking through with your healthful eating plan that you made at the beginning of the year (or perhaps you did stick with it—in that case, kudos to you!).
Perhaps the most wonderful thing of all is that, it’s almost fall—the season of starting new things! And it just so happens that September is National Self-Care Awareness Month—along with a dozen other celebratory titles—and in honor of this national observance that most people probably overlook, I’ve put together 20 ideas for moms to practice wellness in the place you and I love to call home.
- Eat healthful foods. For some of us (including myself), healthy eating can be difficult to prioritize, especially when we get into the rush of the week. Still, choosing clean foods is a great first step to making your body happy—even though chocolate cake appeals to my tastebuds much more than a bag of carrots. Check out the new Salad And Go on College Park Dr, or Flower Child on Lake Woodlands for delightful options that are just as delicious as they are nutritious.
- Get your steps in. Join Goose's Acre Running Club that meets every Monday night between 5:30pm and 7:30pm at The Goose's Acre, or explore the many hiking trails of The Woodlands on your own. If you prefer wheels to walking, go for a bike ride instead!
- Play board games and trivia to stimulate your mind. Our local libraries frequently offer family game days, and The Woodlands Township regularly hosts Family BINGO Nights at the Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park.
- Do yoga for free every Saturday from 10am to 11am at City Place Plaza. No registration required. Just bring your yoga mat and water (and wear comfy stretching clothes)! Before heading out, check the website for potential cancelations.
- Start a journal. Writing down your thoughts can be stress-relieving and freeing. Grab journaling materials and stationery accessories at Typo in The Woodlands Mall. The store is located on the upper level near the food court.
- Read a book—or listen to an audio version. Reading helps you relax and slow down, and fiction especially can sometimes serve as a welcome escape from the humdrum or the buzz of daily life. Stop by one of the Montgomery County Memorial Libraries, and see what's on their recommended book lists.
- Social media break. Cleanse your mind from the Facebook memes and the Instagram reels (or whatever you’re into these days) – for a day, a week, or an entire month. It's a move likely to alleviate your stress level, and you'll also gain more time and energy for pursuing other interests.
- Be creative. Try your hand at something creative and artistic, such as a hand-building DIY pottery class at Clay Bar Co. (1027 Sawdust Rd); a painting session at Color Me Mine (17937 Interstate 45), or a guided paint class at Painting with a Twist (570 Sawdust Rd). Or drop in at Michael's in Shenandoah and purchase everything you need for your own at-home painting party.
- See the doctor. When was the last time you had a checkup? Did you ever investigate that pain you’ve been feeling in your ankle? What about a professional teeth cleaning? And is it time for a mammogram? Stop making excuses and set those appointments.
- Listen to music. You can head out for live music at one of the local restaurants and bars along The Woodlands Waterway, Concert in the Park at Northshore Park through The Woodlands Township, Fall Concerts at Market Street, or turn up the volume on your favorite playlist at home.
- You're paying for that membership to the Y anyway. Why don't you finally go in for some weight training, a group fitness class, or an hour or so on the treadmill? Or request a complimentary day pass at Villa Sport Athletic Club and see if that's more your style!
- Water is a necessity! Be sure you're drinking the recommended daily amount. And for something extra (and with nutrients), pop in for performance-based smoothies and cold-pressed juices at Pure Green (8000 Research Forest Dr.)
- Get some zzzzs. Stop burning the candle at both ends. Go to bed at a decent time to ensure you're well rested for each new day. Also, if your afternoons are hectic, schedule in a Power Nap or two if you can. A midday recharge can work wonders!
- Prioritize your spirituality. Go to church, study your Bible, and pray for a sense of mental peace and connection with God. Morning or evening quiet times in your closet can be some of the most valuable parts of your day.
- Say I'm sorry. Or maybe you need to forgive someone (or yourself). Let go of this stronghold and move forward with love for yourself and others. Remember, you’ve got a free ticket to this kind of freedom, so use it when you can.
- Keep a to-do list to help ease your fear of forgetting something important. Even the simple act of writing out a plan helps to lock the information in your mind so that you can mentally relax.
- Bask in nature. So many options in our area to soak in the beauty of creation! Enjoy a walk in Shadowbend Park (4192 Lake Woodlands Dr). Relax on the bench at the Asian-inspired koi garden located along The Woodlands Waterway. Take an evening stroll around the Riva Row area (just don’t forget the bug spray)!
- Bring a touch of nature indoors. Trader Joe's (10868 Kuykendahl Rd) usually has affordably priced bouquets that will make a fine addition to your windowsill and will be something visually aesthetic to enjoy at home.
- It really is the best medicine! Check out the newest comedy movie at one of our area's many theaters. Better yet, choose a movie + dinner place like Reel Luxury Cinemas so you won’t have to worry about cooking!
- Have a spa day. Treat yourself to a massage, facial, or a mani/pedi to top off your ultimate wellness experience. Who doesn’t want a glow-up that leaves you feeling rejuvenated and relaxed?
