Me Time
QUIET TIMES
By Carol Harding
Little does the word "quiet" appear in parenting articles. Has being
quiet and having quiet time become non-existent in the world of
children and families?
True, a household with young children is seldom quiet. Even the
sounds we like -- music, TV, sports, pets -- can sometimes
fill every space of our lives, making us feel exhausted. Has quietude
become a rare treat?
There are many benefits of quietude: the mind and spirit are
refreshed, things that typically go unnoticed get noticed, and the
unappreciated aspects of our lives can be appreciated.
Here are ways to make a habit of, and to make the most of, quiet times:
- Enjoying quiet moments can happen anytime, but it's important to
schedule quiet time. Go to bed earlier than usual, wake up before
everyone else in the home, walk to a quiet space to sit and breathe, or
submerge yourself in a bath.
- Be still in the quiet time. It's difficult to do nothing in
our busy, goal-directed lives, but try. If you have to do something,
try quiet activities like reading, sketching, or knitting.
- Engage your baby (and the rest of your family) in your quiet
habits. Nursing or holding your baby is a beautiful way to spend your
quiet time.
- Keep a "quiet" journal. Write down thoughts, dreams, and life
stories to record the best of times and to get through the not-so-good
times.
- Be an advocate of quiet time. Busy people especially will benefit from, recognize, and enjoy quietude.
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About The Author
Carol Harding is the Departmental Chair of Methodology/Human Development at Loyola University in Chicago.
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