How I Spent My First Mom's Getaway Weekend

I finally did it! I took my first getaway weekend since I became a mom. No kids, no boo, just me!

As much as I needed it, and am all about moms carving out self-care time, it was tougher than I thought to step away. I shuffled my feet about confirming my plans, waited until the last minute to pack, and even left love notes for my family before heading out. I thought “I can’t believe I’m doing this,” as I walked out the door. Although I only stepped away for two days, the mom guilt was real. I hadn’t taken that much alone time for myself since I was single. The whole idea felt very uncomfortable and foreign to me. But I’m learning that the more I stretch myself outside of my comfort zone, when it comes to my health and wellness, the better I feel.

Moms Weekend 12.jpg — Packing Essentials

My daughter insisted that I take Nala along to remind me of home :)

Once I reminded myself that my children would be fine hanging with their Dad, and that the time was all mine to savor, I relaxed into it, and had an incredible mini vacay. I’m still glowing!

Here’s what I did on my getaway weekend:

I went straight to the spa!

The more that I age, create, and pour into family life, the more I realize how important it is to nurture my body and give it more intentional rest and physical breaks. I had a spa treatment at the Ciel Spa, located in the SLS Hotel-Beverly Hills. I must admit that I shopped around to find a more economical spa package. Initially, I had a hard time justifying the price. I’m no longer used to solely spending money on myself. Once I got over that, and told myself that I deserved to feel good and treated well for a few hours, it was an absolutely lovely experience that was well worth the cost! It was pure bliss.

Enjoying some bubbly, before a much needed spa treatment

After changing into my robe and sitting in the steam room, I was treated to champagne in the waiting area. My therapist ushered me into a room and began the ‘Serenity Lifts Spirits’ package. It includes a full scale body polish, which sheds dead skin cells and impurities. I felt incredibly soft, from the top of my head to the tip of my toes. Then, I stepped into a steam shower, in the same treatment room. Tender drops of water rained down on me and kneaded my body like dough, from all angles. I stayed in the shower for 10 minutes, but could have been in there for 30. It was so relaxing. At one point, I threw my hands up to welcome the gentle tapping of water on my body. It was heavenly! After my shower, I had a 60-minute aromatherapy massage. If you go to Ciel Spa, ask for Paola! In addition to the sensory treat, she worked my sore little muscles with depth and care. AND she gave me THE BEST lymphatic drainage massage, in my abdominal region which helps increase circulation, reduce swelling and water retention. (Amazing for Moms) I had no idea that I was carrying so much tension in that area. Releasing it felt incredible.

Feeling happy and relaxed after a lovely treatment at Ciel Spa in the SLS Hotel

I checked into a hotel.

After my 3 hour spa treatment, I checked into the Kimpton Hotel. As a newish mom, one thing that I truly enjoyed about my weekend away, is that I found solace locally. One day I may feel ready to travel to a far away location for some solo R&R. While my kids are young, I prefer to stay close. I’m happy and grateful that I was able to experience something so magical, close to home.

I enjoyed The Kimpton Hotel because it is quiet and chic. It’s an urban escape, in the heart of Los Angeles. My hotel room was just right for me: small, airy and cozy. Room service and housekeeping services, although limited, are still available with COVID safety parameters in place. They also have a grab and go option for quick morning bites and sips, like muesli, muffins, and green juice.

I loved my cozy hotel room at the Kimpton Hotel

After my spa treatment, I had big plans to binge watch my favorite Netflix show, Workin’ Moms. I made it through one episode and drifted off to sleep. I was in need of some serious rest, and that’s what I focused on all weekend! I relaxed, slept in, and ordered room service!

My Mommafied sleep mask is always in my travel bag!

I exercised.

On Sunday, I went for a light jog around the neighborhood. The hotel doesn’t have a gym, however they do supply you with an in-room yoga mat, which I used to do an online workout. You can also book more high intensity boxing classes at Mayweather Boxing & Fitness, through their concierge service. The gym is a few minutes away.

I lounged by the pool.

I also enjoyed lounging at their rooftop pool and bar, with a good friend. We had lunch, girl talk, soaked up the sun, and took a dip in their wading pool. It was pure liberation!

I’ve vowed to treat myself to a Mom’s Getaway weekend more often. Next time with my friends! I was able to clear my mind and decompress. After the experience, I came back refreshed, renewed, feeling more patient and at ease. The time away has undoubtedly helped me Mom and wife better, and feel a lot more like myself.

I shared my experience with my daughter.

The next day, before checking out of the hotel, I invited my daughter, my oldest, to come hang with me and go for a swim. I wanted her to experience what pouring into herself looks and feels like. I also want her to understand the importance of taking solo time as she gets older—whether she decides to become a mom or not. I want her to know that she is worthy of rest and deserves it. I want to normalize experiences like this for both of my children, showing them that it is all within their grasp.

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