Motivation to exercise is often a scarce resource, especially when racing around with a 4-year-old son. But Gretel Follingstad, a Boulder mom who works in water planning and land use and is currently pursuing a PhD in Climate Change Resiliency Planning at University of Colorado, Denver, knows a little something about managing natural resources. Adding a bike ride or a little yoga into her routine ensures that her reserves are always replenished.
Gretel’s Me Time:
My first choice is usually getting on my bike and going for a ride. Fresh air, deep breaths and good music help wash away any stress from life! I also try to work in yoga in some way, even if it’s just a few minutes on my office floor.
How do you carve out Me Time?
I do my best to work something into my schedule when Liam is at school. This way, I feel like the time I have with him stays consistent. I also try to do something exercise related because it seems to give me the most relief from all the pressures of a busy life. Making this part of the routine provides a great restart button for tackling life’s challenges and tasks, and still being a present mom.
Why is Me Time important to you?
If I get even just an hour of time that is dedicated to myself, I can then give more of myself to others; I am a better mom, partner, student and community member. It replenishes my reserves so I have more patience and tolerance for the highly emotional moments of a 4-year-old and the curve balls that life throws.
