Times have been strange these past months, and we all have different ways of coping with the anxiety.  Women in particular are used to wearing many different hats: mom, wife, daughter, business owner, employee, friend, neighbor.  For many women, juggling these roles can leave us depleted and in need of a recharge, especially when the outside world is so stressful.  While a glass of wine, a chat with a girlfriend, or curling up with a book can give us that boost, having a space all our own is key to our well-being.

As a working mom, having a space to retreat to is important, so my weekend mission is to carve out that space just for myself.  Whether you have a separate backyard structure, like a she-shed, or an unused corner of a room, you can transform the space to be uniquely yours.

First, evaluate what your needs are to recharge.  Do you need a quiet space to read a book or thumb through magazines?  Or perhaps you are a creative who needs an area for crafts or art or sewing.  A small desk and good lighting could be all you need if you are a budding writer.  Or maybe you just need a private area to unwind and chat away with your girlfriend or sister.

Next, determine how much space you need.  Sometimes a corner is sufficient, or you may need a whole room to spread out.  Is there an unused bedroom that you can repurpose for yourself?  Maybe that guest room that only gets used a couple of times a year.  Or maybe a corner tucked away in your little-used living area.  I have a friend who turned part of her enormous walk-in closet into a private office where she could write letters, journal and fill out holiday cards.  Any space can be used; just get creative!

Once you have your space staked out, what is the largest piece that needs to go in it?  A desk or large table or a comfy chair or an easel?  Sometimes all you may need is a really great lamp.  You can “shop” from your own home, maybe repurpose a piece that could use a little attention.  And do not forget color!  Think about what colors give you pleasure.  Painting a chair or a wall in a favorite hue will make you smile every time.

Next, layer your space with the things you love.  Photographs or favorite artwork can boost your mood and recharge your soul.  Or maybe it’s a favorite blanket, a family quilt, or some plants that will create a sense of peace.  And be mindful of sound.  After all, we are creating a little getaway space for ourselves.  A speaker for your phone, a sound machine or even a small fountain can keep the noise of the outside world at bay.

Finally, relax and enjoy.  Give yourself permission to take time for yourself.  Remember, caring for yourself is just as important as caring for others.