MCLEAN, Va. - As much as moms adore their kids, they sometimes look back fondly on those carefree days before the demands of parenthood. Those were the times Mom could grab a few friends and go to a concert, a party or plan a spontaneous weekend getaway. But once that motherly instinct kicks in, it's hard to shake. Moms who are so busy taking care of their families too often end up neglecting someone: themselves.
Research shows just how important it is to take time for self-care: Girlfriends are good for the soul. In fact, catching up with girlfriends can lead to living longer by increasing one's overall health and well-being. If you're considering planning that much-needed trip with your closest girlfriends, check out these tips from Embassy Suites by Hilton. With more than 230 properties across the U.S., the popular hotel choice offers a host of amenities like free, made-to-order breakfast and two-room suites, which contain a separate bedroom and living area, perfect for girlfriends to share.
1. Don't stress! It's just a weekend away
We know the idea of leaving your kids for a long period time sounds stressful, but there is no need to book plane tickets, jet off to an exotic place and be away for a week. Take a look at the cities that are relatively nearby, requiring only an hour or two of driving. You can make it a weekend, or even an overnight sleepover - a brief trip can give you the rejuvenation you need. If you're not gone for an extended period of time, this makes it easier to change plans and also easier to arrange for child care.
2. Choose a hotel that fits your needs
If you choose a hotel that offers amenities to make you feel cared for and pampered, your girlfriends' getaway will be a rewarding one. For example, Embassy Suites by Hilton offers a comfortable, spacious suite with separate living and sleeping areas so there's plenty of room for the slumber party to go all night. With Embassy Suites' free, cooked-to-order breakfast, moms can start their day right without the hassle of the morning grind. Plus, if moms are winding down for the day or gearing up for the night, they can check out a complimentary evening reception that serves up wine and savory snacks, creating the perfect setting for catching up with girlfriends.
3. Enlist your family to pick up the slack
The first question every mom has is, "Who is going to take care of everything while I'm gone?" Your family has leaned on you for a long time so now it's time for them to step up to the plate in return. Ask your husband, older children and other relatives, such as parents or in-laws, to fill in. This marks the perfect opportunity for fathers to bond with the kids. Think about having a special night out at the movies or cooking dinner together. The absence of one parent may reinforce bonds between the kids and the parent left at home.
4. Leave time for dreaming
Whether you're in the car together for the drive or relaxing poolside at the hotel, start conversations about dreams and hopes for the future. If you share support, it just might give all of you the motivation to start something you've been putting off. Or, perhaps your friends will offer another perspective that shows you a different path to success you've never considered. In any case, you'll come home feeling both rested and inspired.
A girlfriends' getaway is the perfect gift a woman can give herself to recharge. To plan your very own girlfriends' getaway visit embassysuites.com.
