How To Make The Most Of Weekends As A New Mum Over 40

My weekends are precious to me as a new mum over 40, that’s why I make the most of them as part of a healthy lifestyle. During the week I am torn between two worlds, always trying to be in two places at once.Sometimes questioning whether the other side of the “work” fence is better.

However my decision to work is based on my family’s needs, therefore I keep going. Recharging batteries So I feel it’s my turn on Saturdays and Sundays to make the most of my leisure time. Don’t get me wrong, I love what I do in the workplace. However I am a firm believer in a work-life balance and the importance of recharging my mental and physical batteries. That’s what I see weekends are for.

I am not one for lie-ins – my body clock doesn’t let me these days. It’s an early start on Saturdays with a good breakfast, saffron tea and a spot of blog planning. Breakfast more often than not is a tomato omelette with garlic and turmeric, or green eggs – that’s eggs fried and covered in dill. Cyrus loves both dishes.

Exercise Routine

I’m a huge fan of Les Mills’ Body Attack and Body Combat classes at David Lloyd in Newcastle. The place is more of a community than a gym to me and I use the classes to release tension, have fun and come out feeling like a champ – even if it’s a trifle exhausting!

Unfortunately, for my husband H at least, my exercise routine takes up most Saturday and Sunday mornings. So it’s good he understands that I really need this. Saturday evenings are invariably spent at home reflecting on the week’s events.

I’m not a fan of Saturday night terrestrial television, with quiz shows and tired C-list celeb programmes, so it’s normally a take-away supper with Fargo on Netflix and a fairly early night. I never have a problem sleeping at weekends!

Sport On Sunday

As well as sport on a Sunday, I enjoy a brisk walk with the family in Jesmond Dene, Newcastle or Paddy Freeman’s Park, Jesmond. It really sets me up for the day and Cyrus loves the fresh air. Much as I love the North East, I do feel the need to get away now and again after a busy working week. So, a couple of weekends ago we headed for Edinburgh.

We stayed in a hotel close to the zoo and used the time to eat, drink and relax. It’s only two and a half hours away from our home, so we can be at our hotel by noon on Saturday and back in good time for work on Monday.

Never Fully Switch-Off

As a PR Manager, I can never completely switch-off. I’m always available on email and try to react swiftly to everyone’s requests and needs to keep them informed.

I am immensely proud of what my little family has achieved and weekends keep me motivated. This means that I seldom have that dreadful Sunday evening feeling as I’m always looking forward to Monday morning. Until next time, khodaa haafez!