30 Self-Care Ideas For Busy Moms
Self-care is defined as “any activity that we do deliberately in order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health.” Sounds simple, yet it’s something that is often brushed aside. Especially when you’re a mom.
Studies show that most mothers put their family’s well-being above their own. But putting yourself last doesn’t make you a better mom. The more you take care of yourself, the better equipped you will be to take care of others.
Don’t feel bad for focusing on you — remember that this is what you need to be the best version of you for those you love.
Say buh-bye to mom guilt and give yourself some much-needed TLC. Here’s to you, Mom! Here are our 30 self-care ideas for moms.
Self-Care Ideas For Busy Moms
1. Exercise
There are a lot of quick 20-30 minute workouts you can sneak in at home — jumping jacks, squats, even a skipping rope routine. Just find what works for you, and sweat it out!
2. Practice yoga/meditation
These practices are excellent ways to get in a bit of “me time” while also doing your body, mind, and soul a lot of good.
3. Get a massage
A good massage relieves stress, takes away aches and pains, and calms your anxiety. It can also help you sleep better. A good massage will leave you feeling relaxed and well-rested. Every mom needs one!
4. Get a mani-pedi/hand and foot spa
Get a mani-pedi and pretty up those nails, or treat yourself to a hand and foot spa to soften the rough spots. Everything will be smoother and prettier – an instant pick-me-up!
5. Take advantage of mornings
A simple way to ensure a little #MeTime is by starting your day early. Establish a morning routine and fill it up with things you want to do for you. That moment is yours — embracing it will get you ready and happy to face the day ahead. This self-care tip is especially good for new moms.
6. Go outside and take a walk
Not only will this serve as a workout, but it also allows you to take in some fresh air and have a little alone time. Plus, the small change in scenery can be a big help in recharging your mind!
7. Cook your favorite meal (or order in!)
Having kids may mean you don’t get to eat out as often as you’d like (if at all!), but that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge your palette. Prepare your favorite dishes at home, or have them delivered. Bon appetit!
8. Take a long shower or bath
As a mom, bath time becomes associated with keeping our tots clean. But bath times are mom-times, too! A good, long shower or bath will wash away the impurities in the body — and wash away your worries, too.
Did you know that self-care kits for moms exist? Well, I’m here to break it to you that yes, they do. You should get one for yourself and give yourself a well-needed spa day.
9. Have a drink
A frothy cup of coffee, a tall glass of iced tea, or a sip of wine can do wonders to lift your mood. Indulging in a beverage you love is a simple way to unwind after a long day and allow yourself to reset.
10. Prioritize sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial. Don’t cut back on sleep even when you are tempted to do a few more tasks. Use those precious hours to rest and keep your body in prime condition.
11. Invest in your health
Moms are on top of each family member’s health. Checkups, shots, dental exams are all lined up for everyone… except themselves. Your well-being is every bit as important as your family’s. Make time for your own health-related appointments.
12. Take a new class / start a new hobby
Interested in attending a class offered by your community? Been wanting to crochet or learn how to bake? Go ahead! Just as you strive to enrich your kids’ minds, so should you enrich yours.
13. Read
Finding the time to sit down and read can seem daunting, but reading helps reduce brain fog, keeps your mind active, and takes you away even for a short time. Sneak in some reading time, and let yourself get lost in a good book every once in a while!
14. Keep a journal
This self-care idea is great for any busy mommy. Keeping a journal helps you to be mindful of your thoughts and emotions, and allows for time for you to really focus on your feelings, what you’re going through, and what you want to accomplish. It’s also a great memory keeper!
15. Listen to your favorite song/album
They say music heals the soul – and ain’t that the truth. You know how hearing your favorite song just makes you happy? That’s science right there, because music can positively alter brain chemistry. Plus, your kids may end up singing your fave tunes with you too.
16. Declutter
Clutter isn’t just visually stressful – it stresses you out psychologically too. Sit down and start streamlining all the junk in your house. It will soothe you like you wouldn’t believe… and tick off some to-dos on your list at the same time.
17. Organize your home
Ever look around your house and think, “Hey, that would look better here” or “I need more storage space!”? Organizing your home will help work away anxieties, and give you a sense of satisfaction in achieving that aesthetic you’ve always wanted.
18. Find your quiet place and be still
Dads have their man caves — moms need their sanctuaries, too. Find a spot in your house that you can claim as your own personal space, and create time to just be solitary and still. Finding peace is good for your mental and physical health.
19. Sing out loud, laugh out loud, dance around
With the flurry of activity and noise that fills a household, moms often find themselves having to be the one to reign it all in. But allow yourself once in a while to sing, laugh, or dance in free abandon. You know you want to… and it’s fun!
20. Dream for yourself and chase those dreams
Motherhood sometimes means putting certain dreams on hold for a while. But as the kids grow, so do opportunities for you to pursue your passions. Dare to dream, and allow yourself to chase your dreams.
21. Look good so that you can feel good
“But wouldn’t that make me shallow and vain?” No, loving yourself means taking care of yourself — that includes a little primping and pampering. Take pride in your appearance and reward yourself with whatever makes you feel even more beautiful.
22. Acknowledge and release stress
Motherhood is challenging. If you find yourself feeling guilty for even thinking that your life is stressing you out, don’t be. Acknowledging stress is actually a good way to deal with it and let go of whatever’s been weighing you down.
23. Unplug
Everyone’s pretty much glued to their gadgets. While this has its benefits, it can also stress you out and cause us to miss out on a lot. Unplug once in a while, let yourself rest from info overload, and savor what’s around you.
24. Date yourself
Go out of the house and spend a little time with yourself. And we’re not talking chores or errands — watch that movie you’ve been dying to see, visit that museum you’ve been wanting to go to, treat yourself to a little shopping (for you!).
25. Do the one thing you love
Do you love to write? Paint? Play the piano? Sing? Whatever it is you’ve always loved doing and have been missing for a while, do it. Your interests are important, and they make you happy and fulfilled. Don’t deprive yourself of doing what you love.
26. Reconnect with an old friend
Self-care is about connecting with yourself — but it’s about reconnecting with those who are important to you, too. Visit that old friend you’ve been longing to see, ring up that person you haven’t talked to for so long. It will do your heart good.
27. Spend time with loved ones
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, there are times when you do so much that you lose sight of yourself. Things can seem more than you can handle, but sometimes all you need is to talk to a family member or friend to feel lighter, happier, and like yourself again.
28. Ask for help
You want to be able to do everything for your family. But honestly, it’s not easy. Letting others help you doesn’t make you less of a mom — it means you know how important it is to accept assistance when you need it. You don’t have to do it all on your own.
29. Revel in parenthood
Moms dedicate so much of their time to taking care of their families — but don’t forget to just be there and enjoy every moment. Goof around with your kids. Make a mess with them. Make memories. Parenthood is more than just cleaning up and chores. It’s the greatest source of joy.
30. Practice gratitude
Your life may be busy and can get overwhelming. But more than anything, your life is full. That is a beautiful thing. Studies show that gratitude can increase well-being and life satisfaction. Remember to be thankful for the little things and the big things. The benefits are endless.
That concludes our list of self-care ideas for busy moms.
If you liked reading this article you should check out our how to take a mom vacation guide. Every mom needs it!
Dedicated to all mothers, soon-to-be-parents and on the way to family life, The Queen Momma is a blog where all the wonders, adventures and magic happen!