Finding Sacred Spaces
Sometimes, all you need is a few moments of tranquility—just five precious minutes alone.
One of my ultimate dreams for a perfect home is having a private bathroom, exclusively mine. This desire isn’t just about practicality; it’s deeply emotional. For me, bathrooms are more than just functional spaces for personal care; they are sanctuaries. I believe I’m not alone in feeling this way, especially as mothers. The connection we have with our bathrooms intensifies once we become parents; they often serve as our only retreat. Here’s why:
A Private Place to Cry
The bathroom has always been my go-to spot for those moments when tears are necessary. At work, it was my sanctuary for a quick cry and a reset. If I ever encountered someone else crying there, we shared an unspoken understanding—no words needed.
When my children were young, I often found myself hiding in the shower to grieve my mother’s battle with cancer. I wanted to shield them from the weight of my sorrow. Even now, as my kids are older, the shower remains my safe haven for a good cry, where no one pries into my feelings or questions what I’ve been doing once the water shuts off.
A Place to Hide
Sometimes, you just need to retreat from the overwhelming demands of others. Whether from kids, coworkers, or partners, a bathroom break can be a much-needed pause from constant interactions. Just declaring “I’m in the bathroom!” through the closed door can buy you a few extra moments of solitude.
Of course, toddlers tend to have other plans. A friend recently shared an amusing exchange with her preschooler during her bathroom time.
Mom: Can you let me have some privacy?
Kid: No, I need to be here for safety!
This phase of parenting can be challenging, but it evolves. From toddlers barging in, to kids waiting outside asking when you’re done, to teens lurking nearby ready to ambush you when you step out—each stage has its own unique challenges, though at least they stop walking in on you!
A Space for Reflection
At home, the shower becomes my creative refuge. It’s where I can think without interruptions, engage in conversations with myself, or even rehearse my acceptance speech for that future award. It’s a place to vent about anything and everything without fear of judgment.
At work, you can still find that moment of contemplation in the bathroom—though the shouting and singing must remain internal. No one will frown upon you for taking a bathroom break, allowing you to sit and think without distractions.
A Hub for Self-Care
Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life? The bathroom offers a chance for personal care, whether it’s brushing your hair, applying makeup, or just taking a moment to breathe. It’s not just a way to delay the next task on your list, but a sacred time dedicated entirely to yourself. And nobody should begrudge you that, right?
It may seem selfish, but it’s not. We need these private moments because we often juggle numerous responsibilities. While I dislike sweeping generalizations, it’s true that many women, especially mothers, bear the brunt of these demands. In most families with a mother and father, the call of “Mom!” is often heard first, and this pattern frequently extends into the workplace. We’ve surely earned our bathroom breaks.
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- How to create a peaceful home environment
- Tips for managing parenting stress
- The importance of self-care for moms
- Finding moments of solitude in a busy household
- Creating a personal sanctuary at home
In summary, the bathroom serves as a vital retreat for many, offering a place to cry, reflect, hide from life’s demands, and engage in self-care. These brief moments of solitude are not just indulgences; they are essential for maintaining our well-being amidst the chaos of daily life.