The moms I’ve talked to all say that taking some “me-time” is absolutely essential to their happiness and sanity.

You don’t stop becoming a person when you become a mom, and just as your kiddos need some tender love and care, so do you. Why then, do you feel so guilty when you are not spending every waking second with your kids?

If you are taking the time you need to rest and rejuvenate, you’ll be able to give your family the best of you, because that’s what they deserve. You’ll be less likely to be short with your kids, and you won’t worry if something you said in anger might screw them up for life.

So with that in mind, here’s what my collectors say are the best ways to get some “me-time.”

1. Spend an hour alone reading. Nothing beats closing the door, snuggling up on the couch, and getting lost in a great book. Here are some of my favorites:

• Below Stairs- The memoir that inspired Downtown Abbey written by a kitchen maid. If you think your work never ends, you ain’t seen nothing. It’s also hilarious.

• Memoirs of A Geisha- Another memoir and one of my all-time favorites. You’ll be mesmerized (and shocked!) by the incredible world of the Japanese Geisha.

• Bridget Jones’s Diary - The Ultimate Chick Book, only it’s really well written and funny, and doesn’t follow all of the classic clichés. If you love snarky Brits and Pride and Prejudice, you will love this. And Mark Darcy? Yes, please.

1. Spend a date-night with your husband. So often when you have kids, they become the primary relationship in your life. But wise mammas say that children feel safest and secure when they know mom and dad's marriage is rock solid. Schedule a weekly date night and make it a priority to take care of your man.

1. Take a Tennis Lesson or go workout. Breaking a sweat is the best way to release stress. It’s so important to keep your body in good condition – especially when you are running on little sleep.

1. Get a mani/pedi. Ah, the time-honored tradition of the manicure-pedicure. It’s a well-known fact that a little bit of pampering cures a lot of ills. My mom suggested this when I was having a bad day and it always made it better. There’s just something about picking out an OPI color that says, "It's all going to be okay."

1. Work on a craft project. Whether it's sewing, painting, or gardening, a project is a great way to explore your creativity. In fact, every month I host a studio event where you can bring some friends, enjoy wine and apps, and work on a fun creative project. Join the list to receive invitations in your inbox.

Moms, what's your favorite way to relax and un-wind? Do you ever feel guilty about taking time for yourself?