By Sumaiyya Naseem
It’s a typical scene for stay at home moms around the world; the husband gets in the car, the kids on the bus, mom waves and returns to the empty house.
Most Riyadhi moms get comfortable under the covers as soon as they’re home alone. Nap seems to be the best way to kill time. We disagree, even though we love naps too. The habit of napping is one that’s hard to break.
Try these things instead:
1. Don’t make the maid do all the work.
If you have a maid, you should work along with her. Take control of your house. Also, don’t let your house get dirty. It’s time consuming but not hard.
2. Watch your favorite show.
But don’t watch more than one episode. Binge watching is not good for the mind and body. Limit yourself to one episode a day.
3. Make delicious dessert.
For some yummy reason, making dessert is way more fun than cooking a pot of biryani. Bake some cookies or make a cake! Treat yourself to a slice; the kids won’t mind! You deserve the sweetness.
4. Read, read and read.
Reading is the best way to pass your time. It improves your knowledge, intellect and imagination. If you don’t usually read, consider hitting the bookstore.
5. Invite friends for a tea party.
Socialize with your friends and get to know your neighbors. We’re all part of a community, and we should make the most of that! Besides, you’re not the only woman waiting for her family to get home.
6. Treat yourself to a home spa.
No driver: no problem! All you need is warm water, bath salts, foot scrub, lotion and peace (which is already available!). Enjoy your me-time and refreshed feet!
7. Give your wardrobe a makeover.
This sounds like a boring chore, but it doesn’t have to be. Put on your favourite music on, and start colour coding or arranging your clothes based on style and occasion! Sorting your clothes will give you inner peace and relief.
8. Listen to motivational/inspirational lectures.
Whether it’s a Ted Talk or a Nouman Ali Khan lecture, both will do good for you. Reclaim your spirituality and make progress in your learning.
9. Study or recite the Qur’an.
The Holy Qur’an is a treasure of knowledge and wisdom that all of us need in our lives. Spend some time with the Qur’an; learning, reading, understanding and memorising. It will improve the quality of your life and give you a spiritual boost.
10. Work out or dance off the extra weight.
No one has the most perfect body; we are all flawed. Whether it’s a few extra pounds you gained after your pregnancy or lack of proper toning, we all need the workout. If you have the perfect body, you’ll still need to work out for a healthier life. Work out to Zumba videos or play your favourite dance music and dance the weight away!
11. Call your parents and tell them you love them.
Our parents will always be the best thing in our lives. Don’t forget to call them and speak to them on a regular basis!
Those free hours every day are the time for you to focus on yourself and your duties. Cooking and cleaning are a small part of what it means to be a woman, a mother, a wife.
