Let’s Be Honest…
If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at the phrase “self-care for moms” because who has time for a bubble bath when the toddler’s using yogurt as finger paint… girl, I see you.
But here’s the truth: Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive, time-consuming, or even quiet. It just has to refill your cup — even a little.
Here are 5 realistic, simple self-care ideas you can actually do — even if your “alone time” is hiding in the bathroom for 3 minutes.
1. Make Your Morning Coffee a Ritual, Not a Rush
Instead of chugging cold coffee between diaper changes and school drop-offs, turn your coffee moment into a mini ritual. Wake up 10 minutes early (I know, I know) and sip it in silence. No phone. Just you, your cup, and a deep breath.
Why it works: Starting your day intentionally can reduce stress and set a calm tone — even if the rest of the day is chaos.
2. Unplug for 15 Minutes a Day
Even if you’re stuck under a sleeping baby, taking a break from social media and endless scrolling can help clear your mental clutter.
Try:
- Reading a book (yes, even a few pages counts!)
- Listening to calming music or a funny podcast
- Sitting in silence while your kid naps — no guilt
Pro tip: Set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” for a short chunk of time daily.
3. Micro Moments of Calm (aka Lazy Girl Meditation)
Forget the 30-minute yoga session. Try this instead:
Close your eyes for 60 seconds. Breathe in for 4, hold for 4, out for 4. That’s it.
Or — stare out the window for a few peaceful breaths while folding laundry. Boom. Mindful moment achieved.
I personally like to use this time to read my daily bible verse, and just sit with it for a minute.
Why it works: Calming your nervous system doesn’t require a retreat — just intention
4. Keep a 1-Minute Gratitude Journal
Grab a notebook (or the Notes app) and write down:
- 1 thing that made you smile
- 1 thing you’re grateful for
- 1 thing you did well today (even if it’s “kept a tiny human alive”)
If writing it down is even too much just think through the list!
Why it works: Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s missing to what’s meaningful — and you don’t need more than a minute.
Self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential. Whether it’s asking for help, saying “no” to something extra, or watching Netflix alone in peace after bedtime, choose yourself on purpose.
Start small. 10 minutes is enough. You deserve that time.
Mama, you give so much. And while you may not get an uninterrupted spa day (yet), these small self-care moments matter.
They remind you that you are important. That your well-being counts. And that a thriving mom doesn’t need to be perfect — just human.
Now go take that breath. Make that cup of coffee. And know that taking care of you is taking care of them.
