This post is sponsored by Zynga, but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

As moms, we are famous for being pulled in so many different directions all at one time. We are in the middle of getting one kid lunch, and the other is tugging at our feet complaining their thirsty. We are trying to change the baby’s diaper, and in the other room it sounds like world war three is happening. We are celebrated for doing a hundred things at one time, but sometimes we just can’t keep going on that way. Sometimes we just need a mommy time out.

Moms, we can only go so long trying to handle all the things before we break. We have to learn to recognize when we need a mommy time out and give ourselves permission to take it.

So, I’m gonna be real with you for a minute…are you wondering if it’s about time for a mommy time out? Here are some sure signs you need one:

Losing your patience.

Yelling too much.

Considering running out the door.

Feeling overwhelmed.

Feeling anxious.

One or more of these things might happen any given day. But if they’re happening consistently, all day, every day…you might be over due for a mommy time out.

So how do you get that mommy time out?

You just do it. Whether you take ten minutes, or an hour, you just give yourself that time. To be the best mom you can be, you have to know when to say no to them, and yes to yourself. You have to give yourself the grace to focus on what you need at that specific moment.

Need some mommy time out ideas? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

Take a bath or shower.

Baths make you sit and soak up some you time for a minute. If baths aren’t your thing, showers can work too. Get in the bathroom, lock the door, and just be. Whether you’re in there for ten minutes, or a half an hour, take some time to breathe and let the hot water relax you. Focus on yourself and give yourself time to refresh and clear your thoughts.

Listen to a podcast.

Maybe you need a time out because you’re running on empty. Podcasts are the perfect way to breathe some life and encouragement into your exhausted heart. You can find podcasts ranging from 5 minutes to an hour. These are easy to listen to while cleaning, working, or sitting watching the kids.

Play a game.

Sit down and take a mental break and play a game. Technology is a great way to play a game with someone other than your child where you can feel like you’re actually connecting with another adult. Download an app and you can play a game with anyone right where you’re at! Words with Friends 2 is a great way to connect with family and friends, give yourself a time out, and feel like your engaging with someone. I love playing Words with Friends 2 with my sister who lives in Italy because with a seven hour time difference, my kids running around me, and her husband’s military schedule it can be hard to connect. But playing a simple game together makes me feel like I have a way to break from the madness and connect with my sister doing something we love. It reminds us of all those game nights we wish we could have!

Go for a walk.

If you can’t get a break from the kids, take them for a walk. A lot of times you can throw them in a wagon or a stroller and they’ll be content, and the exercise can do you some good. Just go for a walk, get some fresh air, and take a few deep breaths.

Turn up the music.

Have an impromptu dance party! Crank up the music, grab the kids, and dance around. It’s amazing what a good dance party can do for everyone’s mood.

Write.

If you need a minute to dish it all out, then sit down and write. Sometimes just putting your feelings and thoughts onto paper can help give you the release that you need.

Moms, it’s okay to admit that you need a mommy time out. We all need it. Don’t be afraid to give the kids a little extra screen time, or some time to themselves for a break. Think of it as a moment to recharge and focus on what you are needing at that moment, and not a punishment. Mommy time outs can make you a better mom. It reminds you to focus on yourself, and in turn, you’ll be ready to press forward with this mommin’ thing. It isn’t easy, and it’s okay to need a time out.

There’s always tomorrow, sweet mama.

How do you recognize when you need a mommy time out? What do you do to take a mommy time out?