We all need to take care of ourselves, but it’s easy as moms to forget that! Self care for moms can be simple and inexpensive, while still being meaningful and rejuvenating.
It seems like we’re always hearing about self care these days, so exactly what is self care? Self care is anything you do to take care of yourself- both mentally and physically. So many of the self care ideas I hear about sound amazing, like getting regular manicures, a facial or even going on walks alone. And while I think it’s very important for moms to regularly get out of the house by themselves, there are many ways we can take care of ourselves while at home!
So, why is self care important for moms? As mothers we are called to take care of our families and homes, which involves continually pouring ourselves into others. If we do not take care of our own mental and physical health we will not be able to fulfill our jobs to our best ability. Self care doesn’t have to be expensive, complicated or time consuming. Just adding in these simple self care tips can help with your overall mental and physical well-being so that you’re able to give your best to those around you!
Here is a list of simple self care tips for busy moms that will help you feel your best!
Simplified Self Care for Moms
1. Exercise
I think exercise is one of the easiest and most important ways we can take care of ourselves! Working out will make you feel better physically and mentally. Not only will you feel more confident in yourself, but you will feel a renewed energy to take on the day! Finding time to go to the gym can be difficult with little ones. Thankfully, there are so many great at-home options. Youtube videos or Street Parking have great workouts for busy moms. If you’re ready to invest a little, I highly recommend Peloton! We bought the bike a couple of years ago and it has been one of our best purchases!
2. Fresh Flowers
Next time you go grocery shopping, pick up some flowers. Seeing bright, beautiful flowers in your home brings instant joy!
3. Rise Early
One thing I’ve found that really helps put me in the right frame of mind for the day is getting up earlier than my kids. I can read my Bible, drink a couple of cups of coffee and get any other little tasks done. I’m naturally a morning person, but if you’re not, waking up even 15-30 minutes before your kids will make a huge difference. You won’t regret it!
4. Light a Candle
Another simple self care tip is to light a candle. I love doing this after I put the kids down to help relax, but really any time of day makes me feel better! My very favorite candles are from Charleston Candle Company.
5. Listen to Music
Listening to music is another great self care tip for busy moms. If I’m feeling stressed or frazzled, turning on my favorite music quickly turns my mood around! I’ve found this tip works great for the kids as well when everyone is in funk- so really, it’s self care for the whole family!
6. Disconnect
It probably goes without saying that we spend wayyy too much time connected to our phones and social media. Taking even one day off of social media gives time to focus on other projects or just enjoy the day. It’s easy to fall into the comparison trap of Instagram which is definitely bad not only for moms but women in general. Self care involves taking care of your mental state, too!
7. Listen to a Book or Podcast
I used to love reading before having kids, but I’ve found it very difficult to fit in since starting a family. One way to overcome that has been for me to listen to books on my phone. If you don’t want to pay for an audio book subscription, try getting a library card from your local branch and asking them about their apps for audio books. I love that this is free so I don’t feel guilty if I don’t read the whole book. If you aren’t interested in books, find a podcast on a topic you enjoy. I love to listen to Sally Clarkson’s podcast- At Home With Sally!
8. Start a New Hobby
I’m all about having a hobby! I love to learn something new and feel accomplished when it’s complete. It is so easy to mindlessly watch Netflix all night when the kids are down (and sometimes that is needed!), but learning a new skill is such a great way to take care of yourself by stretching your mind to learn! Here are just a few hobby ideas and places to learn them…
- Crocheting – Daisy Farm Crafts
- Baking – Sugar and Sparrow
- Working out – Peloton (use this code to get $100 off accessories when you buy a bike, tread or row)
- Needlepoint – Thorn Alexander
- Blogging – By Sophia Lee
9. Eat a Healthy Diet
Maybe one of the most important ways to take care of yourself is by eating a healthy diet of whole, nutritious foods! You can avoid so many health problems, have more energy and gain confidence by choosing a consistently healthy diet. Of course, a healthy diet will help physically but cutting out a lot of sugar and processed foods will help with mental clarity as well. This is also just a great way to set an example for your kids of a simple way the whole family can take care of themselves!
