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How to fit self care
into your busy mom life
(in just 10 minutes!)
Being a mom means wearing many hats, and self-care often takes a backseat. Between school drop-offs, meal prep, and never-ending laundry, it can feel impossible to carve out time for yourself. In this blog post, you’ll learn how to fit self care into your busy mom life. Just 10 minutes a day can make a huge difference in your mood, energy, and overall well-being. Check out these simple yet effective self-care ideas that fit into even the busiest of days.
1. Breathe and Meditate
Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and focus on deep breathing. Use a guided meditation app like Headspace or Calm, or simply count your breaths. Try the 4-7-8 breathing technique: inhale for four seconds, hold for seven, and exhale for eight. This method helps reduce stress, lowers anxiety, and increases mindfulness. Even just five minutes of mindful breathing can help you feel more centered.
YOU WILL NEED: A quiet place in your house with no interruptions. This could be your bedroom or any room where you can close the door.
2. Stretch or Do a Quick Yoga Flow
A few gentle stretches or a short yoga routine can loosen up tight muscles and improve circulation. This is one of the top ideas on the list of how to fit self care into your busy mom life.
If you’ve been on your feet all day, stretch your legs, roll your shoulders, and do a quick forward fold. If you have a yoga mat handy, try a couple of sun salutations or a child’s pose to relax your body and mind. Yoga is known to release tension and promote relaxation, making it a great self-care tool.
These moves are great for adding to your nighttime routine to help you relax before bed.
YOU WILL NEED: a yoga mat or towel to sit on and a quiet place in your home
3. Enjoy a Cup of Tea or Coffee—Without Distractions
Instead of gulping down your coffee while folding laundry or answering emails, take 10 minutes to fully enjoy it. Sit in a cozy chair, take slow sips, and appreciate the warmth and aroma. If tea is more your style, opt for herbal blends like chamomile or peppermint to help you unwind. This small act of mindfulness can help you feel more grounded and present.
YOU WILL NEED: coffee or tea of your choice and your favorite mug
4. Listen to a Favorite Song or Podcast
Music has a powerful effect on mood. Play an uplifting song that makes you want to dance, or listen to a relaxing instrumental track while you breathe deeply. If you prefer spoken word, find a short motivational podcast episode or an audiobook to give yourself an instant boost. Even just a few minutes of auditory enjoyment can shift your mindset and increase motivation.
YOU WILL NEED: a music app to download and music/podcast of your choice
5. Step Outside for Fresh Air
A short walk around the block or even stepping onto your porch can give you a much-needed breath of fresh air and a change of scenery. This is a favorite on the list of how to fit self care into your busy mom life. Nature has a calming effect, and exposure to sunlight can boost your vitamin D levels, which helps improve mood and energy.
Try grounding yourself by walking barefoot in the grass or simply closing your eyes and listening to the sounds of nature.
YOU WILL NEED: a good pair of walking shoes
6. Write in a Journal
Jotting down a few thoughts, things you’re grateful for, or your to-do list can help declutter your mind and provide clarity. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try a brain dump—write down everything on your mind without judgment. Gratitude journaling is another great option; listing three things you’re thankful for can shift your perspective and improve your mood.
Check out my blog post on Self Care Essentials: Why Stay-At-Home Moms Need Me Time for more info.
YOU WILL NEED: a journal or your favorite notebook
7. Give Yourself a Mini Facial
You don’t need an expensive spa trip to pamper yourself. Keep a hydrating sheet mask or cooling eye patches in your bathroom for an instant refresh. If you’re short on time, splash your face with cold water and apply a nourishing moisturizer. A quick skincare routine can make you feel more put together and provide a moment of self-care.
YOU WILL NEED: your favorite skin care products
8. Read a Few Pages of a Book
Escape into a book for a few minutes—it’s a great way to mentally reset and relax. Whether it’s a fun fiction novel, an inspiring self-help book, or a short devotional, reading allows you to take a break from daily stress. Even just a chapter or a couple of pages can give your mind something new to focus on and provide a sense of accomplishment.
YOU WILL NEED: your favorite book and a quiet place to sit
9. Do a Quick Declutter
Tidying up a small space, like your nightstand, kitchen counter, or purse, can bring a sense of order and accomplishment. Clutter often contributes to stress, so setting a timer for 10 minutes to straighten up a messy area can instantly make you feel more in control. Play some music while you do it, and turn it into a mini productive break.
YOU WILL NEED: just choose a small space to organize!
10. Call or Text a Friend
A quick chat with a friend can lift your spirits and help you feel connected, even on the busiest days. Social connection is vital for mental health, so reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. A simple “thinking of you” text or a voice message can brighten both your day and theirs.
YOU WILL NEED: just your phone!
11. Indulge in a Mini Treat
Give yourself permission to enjoy a small treat, whether it’s a piece of dark chocolate, a handful of nuts, or a spoonful of your favorite ice cream. Savoring a little treat mindfully—without guilt—can feel like a tiny luxury in the middle of a hectic day.
YOU WILL NEED: a special treat of your choice
12. Use Aromatherapy for Instant Relaxation
Scents have a strong impact on mood. Try diffusing essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus for an instant mood boost. If you’re short on time, just rub a drop of essential oil on your wrists and take a few deep breaths.
YOU WILL NEED: your favorite essential oils or try this set
13. Give Yourself a Quick Hand or Foot Massage
Take a minute to apply a nice hand cream and massage your fingers and palms. If you’re on your feet all day, roll a tennis ball under your feet for a quick self-massage. This helps relieve tension and promotes relaxation without requiring a full spa day.
YOU WILL NEED: your favorite moisturizer and foot cream
14. Try a Few Minutes of Guided Visualization
Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a peaceful setting, like a beach, a forest, or a cozy cabin. Engage all your senses—what do you hear, smell, and feel? This quick mental escape can help reduce stress and boost your mood.
YOU WILL NEED: just yourself!
final thoughts
Taking time for yourself doesn’t require an hour-long spa session or a full day off. Even these small moments of self-care can help busy moms feel refreshed and recharged.
Prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. When you take time to nurture yourself, you’ll find that you have more patience, energy, and love to give to your family. Read, Stay Present, Stay Happy: Mindfulness Strategies For Stay-At-Home Moms to learn more.
So start small, be consistent, and remember that even a few minutes of self-care each day can have a lasting impact on your well-being. You deserve it!
