|
How important is it to have time and space to call your own? Carve out some time for yourself and feel the benefits.
Make it yours
Find a room or a bit of a room, that's just for you. Even if it's just a couple of bookshelves, or a special windowsill, own it. Fill it with your belongings. Warn everybody else off.
Set the pattern
Establish routines which provide time and space alone. The long bath behind a locked door; the half-hour undisturbed to practise singing, yoga or just to lie and think. Insert them seamlessly into your life and others will soon accept that you-time is sacred.
Use time well
If you're caring for children, find someone who can take over, regularly. When you get that well-earned break, don't dive headlong into the washing. Use it to chill, read, walk, listen to music, touch base with your inner self.
Stay separate
Even the most devoted couples need to hang on to some separate identity. Prise yourselves apart from time to time and keep up with the activities you loved pre-coupledom.
Escape to tranquillity
No peace at home? If the household threatens to overwhelm, take yourself alone to a sanctuary. Wander round a museum or gallery, stroll in cathedral cloisters, go to a beach or a wood. Distance yourself from hurly-burly. Come back refreshed.
| 
