Women are good at a lot of things, but one area we typically fall behind in is taking care of ourselves. We feel like it’s our job to make sure our kids, partners, parents, bosses, even co-workers, and friends are happy and all of their needs are met before we ever extend that same courtesy to ourselves. Many times we end our days with nothing left in the tank. While it may seem like an admirable trait, don’t be fooled. Running on empty for too long will eventually take its toll on your health - both physical and mental.
According to the Office on Women’s Health (US Department of Health and Human Services) women who are stressed are more likely than men who are stressed to experience depression and anxiety. One of their recommendations for managing stress is to take time for yourself.
One way women are carving out some “me” time is by creating a space just for them. She sheds are a recent trend that shows that women are wising up and taking self-care seriously. She sheds are the female equivalent to the man cave. They are a haven where women can go to wind down, recharge, and focus on themselves. She sheds can take as many forms as there are women who create them.
She sheds can be used for exercise, like pilates, yoga, spinning, and more. They’re great for hobbies like painting, pottery, scrapbooking, jewelry making, and sewing. Women have turned them into music studios, reading/writing nooks, and potting sheds. There’s simply no wrong way to use a she shed as long as it provides the mental escape you need.
With the trend of working from home becoming more common, a she shed can be your next home office. Having a separate building as a home office can help define work and leisure time and establish healthy work boundaries allowing you to leave your work at the “office” every night.
Let’s face it, ladies, we are the glue that holds our families together. We are important! Let’s start treating ourselves with the same respect we afford others. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries and establish new habits that will recharge your batteries and keep you functioning at peak efficiency. We also need to show our daughters that self-care is just as important as caring for others.
If a she shed isn’t feasible, take over a bedroom, a corner in the basement, or even a small closet and make it your own. The size of the space isn’t as important as the purpose it serves. Make time for you!