Some days are a bit much. Yesterday I had a fantastic time with the student I mentor for Kids Hope at our roller skating party. But, my senses got a bit overloaded. From the bumpy trolley ride with kids pulling the bell string, to the loud music, kid chatter, strobe lights, and smoke machine of the roller rink. Not to mention being on skates for the first time in a year.

I wouldn’t have missed this fun opportunity, though. I just needed to unwind a bit.

When i got home instead of quiet I found friends of the kids and my husband over. I was getting snappy with my 12 year old daughter who was complaining the whole time I asked her to help with dinner. As soon as dinner was in the oven, I knew I better get someplace quiet quick. (I probably would have done better doing this before I made dinner!)

So I grabbed a book and hid out in the bedroom to read until dinner was ready.

By the time dinner beeped I was in a much better mood and able to handle the rest of the evening.

Some other good escapes:

• lying in a dark room with a cool, damp washcloth over the eyes
• closing eyes while listening to soothing music with headphones
• sitting away from everyone and doing some deep breathing
• praying
• taking a short 10-20 min nap
• doing slow stretches
• taking a walk in nature
• sitting and savoring one bite of dark chocolate

When you start to feel jangled and snappish, its time to step away from the world for a little while.

What are your favorite short escapes?