Mothers tend to unconsciously step into a super hero role, caring for family members and pushing their own needs aside. Research tells us that womens health depends on laughter, playing, exercising, relaxing and enjoying pleasurable fun times. As mothers, we should take this information seriously and look at how we live our lives.

Guilt often plays a huge role in a mothers decision-making process. If a mother feels guilty about leaving her child in the care of someone else for an hour while she goes to the gym to exercise, chances are shell stop going to the gym.

The truth is, instead of feeling guilty about doing something for ourselves, we should actually make it mandatory to take special time for ourselves on a regular basis. Making time to relax and recharge our batteries will make us better mothers. Replenishing on a regular basis will ensure that we have something to give back to our families.

Here are a few simple and quick ways for mothers to relax at home:

1. Light a candle. Lavender, vanilla, sandalwood and spearmint are soothing scents to look for when purchasing special candles.

2. Deep breathe. Inhale deeply through your nostrils then exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat several times until you begin to feel calm.

3. Five minutes of quiet time. Retreat to a room alone and close the door behind you. Sit comfortably in a chair, on a bed, or cross-legged on the floor and practice deep-breathing. Simply taking five minutes to retreat to your own space can provide a calming effect.

4. Play relaxing music. There are many different kinds of CDs available today with soothing music and sounds. Try a couple of different ones, playing one during the day and one at night to relax you just before bedtime.

5. Read a book. Escape into a different world with a good book.

6. Paint with watercolors. Painting is a great way to relax. Watercolors are especially recommended because there is no right way to use them. Allow your mind to relax as you move the brush over the paper and paint away your stress.

7. Go for a 10-minute walk. Nature is extremely relaxing. Put on your walking shoes and enjoy the scenery. Keep your chin up as you walk and remember to breathe deep and take in the scenery around you.

8. Keep a daily journal. Journaling has long been a way for people to dump their problems. It doesnt have to be anything fancy. Just grab a notebook and start writing. Taking ten or fifteen minutes at the end of the day to write out your thoughts can be helpful in releasing stress.

9. Use your imagination. Close your eyes and think about some place or thing that makes you feel calm. Hold that picture in your mind as you practice deep breathing. You might also try using imagery to relax while your scented candles burn and soothing music plays in the background.