Updated: Aug. 13, 2015
Originally Published: July 22, 2012
Reflecting on the days of being a carefree, childless woman can evoke nostalgia. Remember when you could dedicate hours to enhancing your appearance and nurturing your emotional health? Let’s explore how pampering has evolved from then to now.
Vacations
Then: Picture a week in Cancun with your best friends. You enjoyed luxurious accommodations, sunbathing by day and dancing the night away. You returned home with mementos, a sun-kissed glow, playful photos for your social media, and wild stories that were meant to stay among friends.
Now: A rare two-hour dinner with your partner at a local Mexican eatery while your relatives watch the kids. The most adventurous moment might be indulging in a few margaritas and then splurging on a pack of smokes at $10. Yes, $10—can you believe it?
Shopping
Then: You would spend countless hours sifting through racks for upscale work attire, trendy casual wear, and the elusive perfect little black dress.
Now: While grabbing diapers at Target, you might meander into the women’s section, toss a few random items in your cart, and hope they fit when you try them on later.
Salon Visits
Then: Every six to eight weeks, you luxuriated in two hours of foil highlights, Brazilian blowouts, and chic cuts, often accompanied by a glass of wine or endless coffee.
Now: You hide the sharp scissors in a box of feminine supplies, trimming your bangs during your child’s nap time. On special occasions, you treat yourself to boxed hair color.
Manicures and Pedicures
Then: You’d indulge every other Saturday with a friend at the nail salon for acrylic fills and intricate nail designs.
Now: You relish the rare moment when your partner pushes the stroller, allowing you a fleeting moment of relaxation.
Spa Days
Then: You and a couple of girlfriends would enjoy a day filled with massages, facials, and refreshing infused water. Maybe you even splurged on a retreat to detox and engage in yoga.
Now: After your toddler resists naptime, you buckle him into his car seat, turn on the soothing Spa channel, and drive around until he dozes off. You find a quiet spot by the river to read magazines, only to be interrupted moments later. No yoga today, but you might find a forgotten cigarette in the glove compartment from last year’s getaway.
Spoiling by Your Partner
Then: Your boyfriend would treat you to a spa day with friends, followed by a fancy dinner and an intimate night in.
Now: You reminisce about the time your spouse let you enjoy four beers while he took care of the kids, allowing you to blissfully drift off to sleep.
Workouts
Then: You dedicated an hour to cycling and an additional half hour for abs.
Now: Your focus is on the second day of the Potty Training method.
Massages
Then: Whether Swedish, deep tissue, or hot stone, your massages were serene experiences in dimly lit rooms with calming music.
Now: When your toddler has a meltdown, you cleverly use him to relieve that tight spot between your shoulder blades, all while apologizing for the abrupt end to his playground fun.
Therapy
Then: Your upbringing led you to seek professional help, and through careful guidance, you emerged stronger.
Now: With no budget for therapy, you opt to mute the constant stream of negativity on your social media.
In conclusion, as a mom, finding time to pamper yourself may require creativity and adaptation. Whether it’s a stolen moment in the car or a quick trip to the store, self-care is still essential. For more insights on home insemination, check out this article and consider resources from Make a Mom. For comprehensive information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit CCRM IVF Blog.