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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I've decided to try to avoid controversy and I thought a great way to do that would be to get ideas for how to take breathers. What do you do and how do you do that? What are some of your favorite things that help you relax? What do you do to take care of mom? I'd really like to know as I have recently been struck with the incredible importance of taking care of myself. I'm looking for great ideas and I know I'll enjoy reading the answers and not stir up controversy or ruffle anyone's feathers… read more

June 29, 2012
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Answer Summary

Moms of autistic children shared a warm and wide-ranging list of self-care ideas in response to a question about taking personal breaks and... Read more

Moms of autistic children shared a warm and wide-ranging list of self-care ideas in response to a question about taking personal breaks and avoiding burnout. Several members shared favorites like reading with a glass of wine, working out, horseback riding, prayer and meditation, gardening, massages, and even creating a cozy backyard retreat with music as a signal for uninterrupted downtime. A recurring theme was that taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity, with many members stressing that a healthy, whole parent is the foundation their family depends on.

A MyAutismTeam Member

I have made myself a kind of yearly "to do" list. I want to be sure I look back at the end of each year and find I did something for me! In past years I learned to play piano, took drawing classes, attended the theater with friends, made sure to hit every art gallery in Milwaukee, attended a hockey game...etc. I try to makes sure I can do most things in a few hours so it is enough of a break.

June 30, 2012
A MyAutismTeam Member

Moms, it's super important to take care of you and seek out support to do that! If you break down, the whole world will break for your family. It IS that important! I neglected my health for the longest time and had some tragic things occur as a result. That is why I'm really stressing the importance of this! :)

July 3, 2012
A MyAutismTeam Member

It's not really taking care of me, but it relaxs me. I read. I read for fun, not to research stuff. I read to escape the day to day blahs or worries. When the house is quiet & I sit in my chair to read, often my cat curls up in my lap.

July 2, 2012
A MyAutismTeam Member

Before life got so crazy & stressed (this time around), I was taking walks after I took my son to preschool. I was finding these walking paths around town & just going by myself. It was so relaxing. I need to remind myself to get back to that!

July 2, 2012
A MyAutismTeam Member

I spend quiet time in prayer and meditation daily as church has not been easy with my son.
I exercise,and keep up with my friends at least twice a month.
I also borrow movies from the library so when my son is away with his Dad I can watch what I am interested in.

July 2, 2012

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San Diego, CA