Ladies’ night out – Why it’s important

by Karina Hunter

Some of the ladies who attended the Best Start Hub's Ladies' Night Out Pajama Night

A dozen Moms and caregivers, clad in pajamas and fuzzy housecoats, gathered at the Manitouwadge Best Start Hub Wednesday, February 24^th as Reene Warren hosted the Family Place’s monthly ‘Ladies’ Night Out’.  These evenings are casual drop-ins; intended, through fun and a bit of pampering, to promote new friendships, mutual support and the importance of persons in care giving positions to take time out for themselves.  After playing a fun true or false icebreaker game, the women enjoyed delicious snacks prepared by Warren and some refreshments.  Everyone seemed to agree that pajamas had been a great dress code suggestion; there were many thank you’s to Warren as the evening ended with everyone feeling ready to get back to their responsibilities at home.

 Women often feel pressure to give so much to their children or spouse that they forget to take care of their own needs but giving too much can burn caregivers out and make them less able and less effective. Many women may feel that they are not being good parents or spouses if they don’t max themselves out. They can feel that time spent on them is selfish, but ironically, doing so can help make them better parents and partners. Many studies have proven that women who take time to care for themselves are healthier; being constantly stressed out is not healthy.  Stress can lead to high blood pressure and greater risk for heart disease; women who do not take care of themselves are also more likely to become ill as their immune system can be reduced.  Additionally, people who are mentally and physically pushed to their limits are more likely to be in accidents and persons who are ill or injured will have more difficulty parenting efficiently than those who are healthy and happy.  Great reasons, say staff of the Best Start Hub, to regularly take a few moments to yourself, sharing time with other adults, enjoying a favourite hobby or taking in a new activity.

The Best Start Hub will host its next Ladies’ Night Out on March 31st from 7-9pm, all are welcome for a relaxing night of adult conversation, snacks, refreshments and even a game or two! For more information on any of the Hub’s services, call Kelly at 826-2883. 

Submitted to The Echo, 02.25.10