Let’s be real: family vacations are great—if you enjoy chaos, crying children, and the art of pretending to have fun while stuck in a minivan for twelve hours. But this year, I made a bold decision: I traded the sunscreen for a facial, the road trips for a hot stone massage, and the endless “are we there yet?” for the sweet sound of spa music and silence. Yes, I chose a spa day over a family vacation, and no, I don’t feel guilty about it. In fact, I’m convinced that, every once in a while, a day of pampering is the perfect alternative for all that vacation togetherness. Here’s why.

Why Choosing a Spa Day was the best decision for my mental health

As a mom, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of caring for everyone else, often putting your own needs last. However, just like the safety instructions on an airplane tell you to put your mask on first before helping others, prioritizing self-care is essential for your well-being. If you’re constantly running on empty, you won’t have the energy, patience, or mental clarity to be the best mom you can be. Taking time for yourself—whether it’s a quiet moment with a book, a workout, or simply resting—helps replenish your physical and emotional reserves. When you care for yourself, you’re better equipped to care for your family, showing them the importance of self-love and balance along the way.

No, I don’t feel guilty—here’s why

Mom guilt is a common and complex emotion rooted in societal pressures, personal expectations, and the natural desire to be the best for your family. Scientifically, it can be tied to the brain’s response to stress and decision-making, particularly in the areas of caregiving and responsibility. When moms feel they aren’t meeting their own or others’ expectations, the brain’s stress response can trigger feelings of guilt, often leading to anxiety or self-doubt. To deal with mom guilt, it’s important to recognize that it’s a normal, human emotion, and not a reflection of your worth or abilities as a parent. Practicing self-compassion, challenging unrealistic standards, and seeking support from other parents can help reframe these feelings. Prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and understanding that perfection is unattainable can go a long way in easing the weight of mom guilt.

Alternatives to traditional family vacations

Staycation with local attractions: Instead of traveling far, plan a staycation where you explore local museums, parks, and attractions. This eliminates the stress of long travel, but you can still enjoy new experiences without leaving your area. Plus, it’s easy to return home for naps or breaks.

Nature retreat with cabin stay: Rent a cabin or cottage in a scenic location, like a national park or a beachside resort. Being surrounded by nature allows for relaxed family bonding, with activities like hiking, beachcombing, or fishing. It’s a low-pressure environment for families with young kids, offering downtime and outdoor adventures without the usual hustle of crowded destinations.

All-inclusive resort with kid-friendly amenities: Choose an all-inclusive resort designed for families, where meals, activities, and childcare are included. Many resorts offer kids’ clubs and family-focused activities that keep children entertained while parents get some relaxation time. It minimizes stress by providing everything you need in one place and reduces the logistics of coordinating meals or entertainment for young kids.

Renting a large house with family and friends: Rent a spacious house or vacation home near a beach or within walking distance to kid-friendly attractions. Sharing the house with family and friends allows for built-in support, with multiple adults to help supervise the kids and share responsibilities. It also offers flexibility—whether it’s beach days, nearby parks, or visiting local attractions, you can plan activities together without the stress of constant travel logistics. Plus, having a home base makes it easy to stick to routines like nap times or meal prep.

In the end, opting for a spa day instead of a family vacation wasn’t about dodging my responsibilities; it was about recharging my batteries so I could return to the family circus as the best version of myself. No guilt, no regrets—just a blissful day of relaxation that let me reconnect with… well, me. So next time you’re tempted by the pressure to take the “perfect” vacation, just remember: sometimes the best getaway is the one that starts with a little self-care. Go ahead, indulge yourself—you’ve earned it!

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My hope is that this blog may be helpful, or dare I say inspirational to someone out there. Please share your comments!