Being a mom is one of the most rewarding roles, but it can also be incredibly overwhelming. Between managing household responsibilities, caring for kids, and possibly juggling work, it’s easy to put yourself last. Prioritizing self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming—small, intentional acts can make a big difference in your well-being. Here are ten easy self-care tips to help you recharge and feel more balanced:
1: Take Five Minutes for Deep Breathing To Combat Being A Stressed Out Mom
A few deep breaths can do wonders for stress. Deep breathing tells our body that it is safe and okay to relax. Try the 4-7-8 technique: inhale for four seconds, hold for seven, and exhale for eight. If deep breathing isn’t for you, therapy can teach you other mindfulness skills that may work for you. Mary Willoughby Prentiss has been obtained a certification in 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training and well-versed in different mindfulness types.
2: Step Outside for Fresh Air
Even just a five-minute walk around the block or sitting on your porch can help clear your mind and boost your mood. Vitamin D is incredibly important in the combatting of anxiety, depression, and more. If you with depression as a mom click here. If you are an anxious mom, click here.
3: Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can contribute to fatigue and irritability. Keep a water bottle nearby and aim to drink throughout the day. It can be helpful to keep water bottles in multiple places, such as upstairs and downstairs.
4: Set Boundaries So You Aren’t As Stressed As A Mom
It’s okay to say no! Protect your time and energy by setting limits with work, social commitments, and even family. Therapy can help work on assertiveness skills and help you recognize when you need to say no. For help setting boundaries as a mom, click here.
5: Practice Gratitude As A Mom
Take a moment each day to reflect on one or two things you’re grateful for. This simple habit can shift your mindset toward positivity. Some moms take a moment to write down their mom wins or good moments of the day.
6: Listen to Music or a Podcast You Love
Whether it’s a relaxing playlist or an inspiring podcast, tuning in to something enjoyable can provide a quick mental escape. It can help beat back the duldrums from the day and challenge your brain to learn something new. Or it can make you feel more connected to others.
7: Take a Break from Screens To Destress As A Mom
Too much screen time, especially on social media, can add to stress. Try a short digital detox to feel more present and refreshed.
8: Do a 10-Minute Stretch or Yoga Session
Gentle movement helps relieve tension and improve overall well-being. There are plenty of free videos online to follow.
9: Schedule “Me Time”
Even if it’s just 15 minutes, dedicate time to do something just for you—reading, journaling, or enjoying a cup of tea in silence.
10: Ask for Help When You Need It
You don’t have to do it all alone. Lean on your support system and accept help without guilt. If you are wondering how therapy can help mom’s navigate mental health, click here. If you feel ashamed to seek therapy, click here. For more tips in finding time for you as a mom, click here.
Remember, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Taking care of yourself allows you to show up as the best version of yourself for your family. Start small, be kind to yourself, and make self-care a regular part of your routine! If you struggle to take care of yourself or are feeling stressed out or overwhelmed as a mom, reach out for help at 757-296-8794.
Mary Willoughby Prentiss is a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia who provides online therapy for Willow Tree Healing Center. She enjoys transforming the lives of women, college students, kids, tweens/teens, and families through providing communication strategies, coping skills that work, allowing a safe space to be heard, and actively working towards helping you with your challenges. She is certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (ages 2-7) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, counsels substance abuse in teens and adults, and practices Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy.
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