You know those days when you just finished setting the table after completing an array of other household tasks and your child asks for juice instead of the milk you just poured? Your child begins to cry and throw themself on the floor and you are on the verge of tears yourself.  You may feel like you have given all that you have and are unsure of where to pull from to keep up with all that’s on your plate.  It can feel exhausting and to the point where you feel like giving your all never feels good enough. Mothers often feel pressure to keep sacrificing and giving for the well-being of others, and while it is wonderful to support and care for those that you love, there is a point at which this can be harmful.

If you’re not able to fulfill your needs and constantly feel like you’re pouring from an empty cup, it’s time to find ways to give back to yourself. I’m sure those of you reading this and relating are wondering where you can find the time to squeeze in for you. You may even think that giving to yourself is greedy and not worthwhile when others depend on you. I get that. It’s hard to erase years of messaging telling you that self-care is selfish. It’s also hard to add any additional “to do” item to your list, even if that’s something you enjoy. 

Finding the space and time for you is hard when the needs of those around you are so high. Unfortunately, if you don’t make this time for you, resentment will often build as you give to others. The quality of your relationship with your partner, your friends, and your children, won’t feel as fulfilling. Not only will carving out time for you benefit yourself, but it will also benefit those around you. There will be greater ease in adapting to the ever changing needs of your children. You’ll have more energy to engage with your partner. You may even enjoy calling a friend to catch up because you have the reserve to be able to hold that space. 

Another aspect of entering into motherhood is a changed identity.

You now hold the role of a mother and it’s a role that has probably impacted your day to day functioning more than any role before. It’s a role that many hope for and there can be so much gratitude for this new identity. At the same time, you continue to hold roles that you had prior to motherhood such as partner, daughter, friend, sister, cousin, athlete, artist, adventurer, etc. Those identities continue to exist, but there may not be as much space for them as there was before. These previously attended identities may be getting ignored due to lack of time, and while you won’t be able to pour into them as much as you once did, it’ll be important to identify what you’d like to bring back in. What parts of you need more attention so that you can feel more like yourself and continue to maintain your individuality even in motherhood? 

A really fun way to get back a little bit of you and spend some quality time with people you love is to gather up your friends and get away for a weekend. This can provide space for some uninterrupted time, deep conversations, and hopefully, lots of laughter. If you’re local to Maine, or want to visit from afar, there are 4 incredible spots for a weekend getaway with friends in and around Maine.

1. Portland, ME: This quaint city is filled with history, exquisite cuisine, and luxurious relaxation options. You’ll find the Portland Museum of Fine Arts, Victorian Mansion, and the Tate Museum for those who love an intellectual spark. If you enjoy quality coffee and food, you’re in for a treat. Speckled Ax, Coffee By Design, and Tandem all offer coffee of incredible quality. They are located in areas that would highly appeal to those who love to walk around the city with a cup of coffee in hand. You may want to venture over to Regency Spa for a spa day with the girls. Or step outside of Old Port and go for a sensory deprivation float over at Float Harder. Finish the day off with a delicious meal. Whether you’re up for a casual spot like, Black Cow, or treating yourself to finer dining over at Solo Italiano, you’ll be sure to satisfy your taste buds at any of Portland’s restaurants. 

2. Kennebunkport, ME: You may feel as though you are walking through a movie scene with how picturesque this spot is. From the natural beauty found in the scenic outdoors to the beautiful shops and restaurants aligning the streets, the atmosphere in this town creates a feeling of calm. This cozy spot is ideal for a self-care getaway with good friends. Step outside to enjoy the gorgeous surroundings such as Walker’s Point, Parson’s Way, or Kennebunk Beach. You can even venture out in the ocean for a guided tour as you sail on the Pinneapple Ketch. The Village Salon & Day Spa will be sure to help you unwind and separate from the ongoing task list that has been overtaking your thoughts. Top off your weekend with an exceptional meal at The Boathouse Restaurant. 
   

3. Newry, ME: While Maine is known for it’s beautiful summers, it’s also equipped for you to have a good time in the winter. Imagine waking up to a view of the mountain and enjoying a day of skiing with options for spa treatments, good food and a movie theater viewing all within a small radius? Sunday River Ski Resort can ensure that you and your friends will fully enjoy your time with a variety of options at your fingertips. The Jordan hotel offers slope-side views and is home to the Jordan Spa. You can enjoy an outdoor heated pool with exceptional views and eat from a variety of restaurants located onsite. 
   

4. Bar Harbor, ME: A spot that’s ideal for beautiful views, hiking adventures, and exploring the variety of shops and restaurants the town has to offer. Being an attraction to both Mainers and tourists, Bar Harbor has a variety of options for lodging, exploring, eating, and unwinding. Acadia National Park provides hiking trails varying from novice to expert. Whether you go to Eagle’s Lake, Jordan’s Pond, or Ocean Trail, you will be able to capture stunning photos from even the most basic of phones. Not to mention, these spots can provide an ideal backdrop for a quality photo of all the friends! In downtown Bar Harbor, you’ll find restaurants, souvenir shops, the Village Green and Frenchman Bay. Along Frenchman Bay, you’ll find options for boating tours allowing you to sit back and fully embrace the feeling and views that Bar Harbor has to offer. 

A weekend away could be just the thing you need to feel refreshed and ready to bounce back into the many roles you hold as a mother. Sometimes it takes a new location surrounded by your closest friends to give back to yourself in the way you truly need. It’s a great way to nourish your mind and soul through quality time and lasting memories. As you spend your days caring so deeply towards the people you love most, let’s now create some space for you in that picture. It’s time to give back to yourself in the same way you give to others. 

Supporting You,