Let’s face it: solo parenting can feel like trying to juggle flaming torches while balancing on a unicycle – on a tightrope – in your pyjamas – with no coffee. You’re not imagining it: doing everything alone is a lot. And while we all know the importance of “self-care,” most of us don’t have the time, energy, or money for elaborate spa days or yoga retreats.

But looking after yourself doesn’t have to be a grand event. Sometimes, it’s just about finding small, effective ways to decompress in the cracks of your day – once the kids are in bed, the dishwasher is on, and you've finally reclaimed the TV remote.

Here are a few low-effort, high-impact ways to unwind as a single parent:

1. Create a Wind-Down Window

Once the kids are asleep, resist the temptation to immediately start tidying up or tackling emails. Instead, carve out 20 minutes that are just for you. No laundry, no to-do lists – just quiet, solo time. Read, journal, scroll in peace, or sit on the sofa and enjoy the silence (honestly, it’s golden).

2. Try Mindful Micro Moments

Mindfulness doesn’t have to mean meditating in a dark room for an hour. Even just a few minutes of deep breathing or noticing the sensation of your cup of tea in your hands can help calm your nervous system. There are plenty of free apps with short guided meditations, or you can simply set a timer for three minutes and breathe slowly in and out. Your brain will thank you.

3. Explore Natural Ways to Relax

If your evenings are high-stress and your mind races the second you stop moving, it might help to try natural remedies designed to take the edge off. Some single parents in the Frolo community have found that things like CBD or delta-8 THC products (where legal) can support calm and relaxation in a manageable, parent-friendly way. If you're curious, you can learn more here: https://trehouse.com/collections/thc-carts/

4. Set ‘Digital Cut-Offs’

You know that thing where you scroll TikTok at midnight and suddenly it's 2 a.m. and your neck hurts? Try setting a tech curfew. Put your phone to bed (in another room if you can bear it) at a set time each night. Replace your screen time with something soothing: a warm bath, a cosy audiobook, or actual sleep.

5. Connect with Other Solo Parents

You are not alone, even when it feels like it. Building connections with other single parents can be a powerful stress reliever. Whether it’s through the Frolo app, a group chat, or just one other person who gets it, those moments of shared experience can be grounding – and even funny. Because let’s be honest, if you don’t laugh about the tantrum over the wrong colour bowl, you’ll cry.

Remember: Rest Is Productive

You’re doing the job of two (or more) people. You’re showing up every single day. Taking time for yourself isn’t indulgent – it’s essential. However you unwind – whether it’s five minutes of breathing, a hot bath, or a little help from nature – know that you deserve to rest.

You’ve got this.

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