Being a mom is a demanding job, with busy days that often leave little time for self-care. But taking care of yourself is important for your well-being and your family’s happiness. Learn about 35 simple self-care tips designed especially for busy moms.
These self-care tips are easy to do in your daily routine. It can be as simple as a short break, a healthy snack, or a heartfelt gesture. Discover how to prioritize your well-being while being an amazing mom.
Moms, I understand that we are all busy. It is okay to do absolutely nothing and not feel guilty about it.
As a mom it is hard to put yourself first. It may even be hard to take care of yourself properly.
Moms tend to spend their time caring for their children and their household and may just grab a quick bite to eat.
Or moms may feel guilty about exercising because they are not spending time with their children.
You may use free time in the evening to fold clothes, clean the house and think about all the things that you need to do instead of taking some time to relax. Trying to do it all will make you exhausted physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
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Stop The Negative Self Talk
First, you need to change the way you talk to yourself. You should talk to yourself as if you were talking to a friend.
Tell yourself that it is okay to take a couple of hours to relax and read a good book. It will recharge your batteries and make you less frustrated with the kids. That’s right, it helps you be less frustrated with the kids.
Remember words have power. Your words define your beliefs and who you think you are. You have the power to change your language and attitude.
Try this simple tip, replace a negative thought about yourself with a positive thought.
What is Self-Care?
Self-care is simply loving yourself. It reminds you that you are important.
It is about putting yourself first and understanding that you cannot care for others unless you care for yourself.
Self-care helps you be your best self. The main goal of self-care is to take care of yourself and avoid burn out.
Self-Care Benefits
Self-care can help you be:
- Healthier
- Happier
- Feel less guilt.
Self-care is a form of self-love. It will provide you with more focus and clarity and help you make life improvements.
Self-Care Excuses
- Too busy.
- Not enough time.
- I will do it later.
Start by looking at yourself as a whole person. Don’t just focus on being a mom, a wife, or a working professional. You are a person with real feelings.
Self-care may mean that you have to step out of your comfort zone. You may need to adjust to new routines.
How much time do you spend mindlessly scrolling through social media? You can use some of that time to take care of yourself. Tip: set a timer before you get on social media.
35 Self Care Tips for Busy Moms
- Tell yourself a positive affirmation.
Positive affirmations are positive statements you tell yourself. They can be as simple as “I am smart.” These affirmation cards make it easy.
2. Exercise for 20 minutes.
Exercise releases stress, helps improve your health, and can improve your mood.
YouTube has a lot of 15-20 minute workout videos.
3. Paint or color.
Research shows that coloring can reduce fear and anxiety. Does coloring with the kids count? Of course.
I find coloring to be relaxing. This adult coloring book looks fun.
4. Take a long shower or relaxing bath.
Find time in the day or evening after the kids go to bed, to relax in the bathtub. This foaming bath looks relaxing.
Baths can can help relieve stress.
5. Play your favorite song.
Music can improve your mood. Simply play your favorite song or create your own feel-good favorite songs playlist.
6. Read a book.
Do you like mysteries, inspirational stories, romance books, or novels? Get lost in a good book today.
Your library has lots of books to choose from and it’s free.
7. Take care of your skin.
Give yourself a facial. Use your favorite body scrub. Your skin will feel better and you will feel better.
8. Listen to a podcast.
Listen to your favorite podcast or discover a new one.
9. Dress up.
Put on your favorite outfit for going out. Remember to do your hair and makeup, even if you have nowhere fancy to go.
Dressing up can improve your mood.
10. Meditate or pray.
Taking a moment to pray or meditate can help busy moms find inner peace and reduce stress. It’s a simple, powerful way to clear your mind and recharge your energy, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.
11. Stretch.
Stretching helps relieve tension and increase flexibility. A quick stretch break during the day can ease muscle aches and improve your mood. So, take a few moments to stretch your body, and you’ll feel more relaxed and ready to tackle your busy day.
12. Deep breathing.
Take 3-10 deep breaths in and deep breaths out. Research shows deep breathing can decrease stress and increase energy.
13. Write in a gratitude journal.
Write down what you are thankful for. It really helps you realize how blessed you really are.
14. Take a walk outside.
It allows you to enjoy fresh air, clear your mind, and get some gentle exercise. Stepping outdoors can provide a welcome break from the daily hustle, helping you feel more refreshed and connected with nature.
15. Go to bed earlier.
Going to bed earlier is a simple but effective self-care tip for busy moms. Getting more rest can boost your energy levels and help you be more alert during the day. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in how you feel and handle your busy schedule.
16. Watch or listen to something funny.
Laugh. It is okay to laugh until you cry.
17. Say no.
It is okay to occasionally say no and take time for yourself and your family.
You don’t need to do everything.
18. Declutter.
It is amazing how much anxiety a mess can cause. I am happier when my house is organized.
19. Take a break.
Even if it is only 5-10 minutes, taking a break can make a big difference in your feelings of overwhelm.
Just don’t feel guilty after taking your break. It is okay.
When you take breaks from work, your productivity increases and your mental well-being improves. Without breaks, your work performance suffers.
20. Sit outside.
Sitting outside is a quick self-care tip that can bring peace to busy moms. Just a few minutes of outdoor time can provide a mental break, allowing you to relax and enjoy the surroundings. So, find a quiet spot, sit outside, and soak in the calmness to rejuvenate yourself.
21. Pamper yourself.
Have a spa day, either at home or at a spa. Paint your nails.
22. Go out with friends.
Whether it is chatting over coffee or going to dinner, time with your friends recharges your spirit. I always feel better when I spend time with friends.
23. Use essential oils.
These natural scents can help create a calming atmosphere and reduce stress. A few drops of your favorite oil in a diffuser can make your home a more peaceful and relaxing place, giving you a moment of tranquility in your busy day.
24. Grow a garden.
Research has shown that gardening can improve your mood, reduce stress, and builds strength.
Some ideas include a vegetable garden, a flower garden, or potted plants.
If you don’t have a green thumb, you can take time to admire someone else’s garden.
25. Yoga
You can either take a yoga class or YouTube has several yoga videos. They even have yoga videos that are 15-20 minutes long for people who don’t have time. My kids and I love Cosmic Kids Yoga.
26. Practice gratitude.
Think about what you are thankful for. Remember to tell people thank you. A simple thank you goes a long way.
27. Get a massage.
Getting a massage is a luxurious self-care tip for busy moms. It’s a great way to relax your muscles, relieve tension, and pamper yourself.
28. Enjoy a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Sit, relax, and enjoy your hot beverage.
29. Call your friend.
Sharing your thoughts and feelings with a friend can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation. It’s a way to strengthen your social connections and find comfort in times of stress, making it easier to handle the demands of motherhood.
30. Look at the stars.
Take time to look at the stars and let your mind wander. I love looking at the stars and daydreaming.
31. Take a 20 minute power nap.
This is helpful for when you have low energy. A quick 20 minute power nap can give you a boost of energy.
32. Do a brain dump.
Dedicate a notebook for brain dumps. Whenever you have a lot of ideas or worries, write it down in your notebook. This way you don’t have to worry about it all day.
33. Wake up 20 minutes earlier than your family.
Enjoy the peace and quiet of your house before your family wakes up. Take time to plan your day, read or journal. This is your “me time.”
34. Eat a healthy snack.
Eating a healthy snack can boost energy and mood for busy moms. Choosing nutritious options like fruits, nuts, or yogurt can keep you fueled and satisfied throughout the day.
35. Hug your family for no reason.
It strengthens emotional bonds and creates moments of love and connection. It’s a simple yet powerful way to spread warmth and happiness in your home, reminding you of the joy in your busy life.
Key Points To Remember
Remember to take time to take care of you. Taking care of yourself improves your interactions with your kids.
I know you are a busy mom with limited free time available. Some of these self-care tips only takes a couple of minutes. You probably spend more time aimlessly scrolling through social media.
So, take time for yourself because you deserve it. You are a hard-working awesome mom.
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