6 Simple and Easy Self Care Tips for Busy Moms

Most self-care tips are not realistic. No, I don’t have time to get a pedicure. My elementary-age child was late for practice, the baby was grumpy from another restless night, and the toddler was triumphantly dancing on the kitchen countertop despite the reminder I gave 30 seconds earlier that we only dance on the floor. Somehow, amid this, I was supposed to prioritize self-care.

When self-care takes lots of time and effort, it’s not self-care anymore. I am right there with you. As a mom of 3, I can tell you that there are thriving and surviving seasons. I am passionate about self-care and feel strongly about having appropriate and realistic expectations of ourselves.

I am excited to share these six simple tips on implementing self-care into your daily routine. And no, I won’t tell you to wake up an hour early every day. Sleep wins in my house, always and forever, amen.

#1 Drink Your Coffee Hot

Why is it so hard to finish coffee with littles running around? It’s impossible to enjoy the full cup while it’s still hot. Reheat that cup, mama. Reheat it as many times as you need to. Make a fresh pot even. Drink your coffee hot.

There is something comforting about a hot cup of coffee. Drinking lukewarm coffee makes us all feel blah, and no one wants to start the day off feeling blah. Drink that morning’s happy bean juice from a special mug to level up. I like this one with a verse from the book of Proverbs. Whatever cup you use, let it inspire you and motivate you.

#2 Get Dressed

I know. Pandemic life made daily pajamas socially acceptable. But think about how good it feels when you wear real clothes instead of those sweatpants from yesterday. I always have a little more pep in my step if I’ve gotten dressed for the day, and it helps me feel more refreshed overall.

I’m not saying go full glam when you’re spending your day at home with babies and toddlers. Do whatever “get dressed” means to you. Sometimes I prefer a hoodie to a sweater—leggings instead of jeans.

I really enjoy makeup, so I wear it every day. However, you might be more of a moisturizer and mascara-only girl. You do you, friend. But spending ten minutes in the morning tending to yourself can help you feel refreshed for your day.

#3. Have a Special Afternoon Snack

The house is finally quiet, and the babies are napping. I know that never-ending list of chores is calling you. But hear me on this; the to-do list will never end. I know it’s a hard truth, but there will always be something else to do.

Take 30 minutes. Fix a favorite snack, the snack you keep hidden from the kids in the back of the pantry or that random cabinet. Then, put on a show that doesn’t include Cocomelon or Mickey Mouse. I promise the day will not fall apart while you take these 30 minutes for yourself.

With three babies five and under, the refreshing sweet bubbles of the Prosecco and the slight bittersweet taste of the dark chocolate made me feel fancy and fun when my days felt mundane. I looked forward to that special treat each day. And, of course, I am not advocating for being irresponsible.

#4 Move Your Body

I was not very good at maintaining exercise during the years when my kids were babies. However, having a fulfilling exercise routine now makes me wish that I had prioritized my physical fitness sooner. It’s one of my regrets of those early years.

Sweet friend, you are worth it. Even if you stretch for five minutes at the end of the day, it will help you unwind and recharge. Also, I encourage you to get outside and move your body. Maybe that means walking or playing with your kids in the backyard.

Whatever it is, work up a sweat now and then. I promise you will be glad you did. And if you’re looking for great at-home workouts, I like Blogilates.

#5 Write It Down

Journaling has so many benefits. I find journaling helpful for processing life. It’s not something I consistently do, but journaling is what gets me through whenever I am in a season of survival.

Writing everything gets them out of your head and onto the paper instead. It helps you think and process those challenging times more objectively.

Journaling is also a fantastic way to keep track of your prayers and meditations. If you want to explore journaling from a Christian perspective, I love these Write the Word journals. I am currently working through the one on worship.

#6 End Your Day With a Hot Bath

I am convinced people who say they are not “bath people” haven’t given baths a chance. Think of a tub as an experience – not just a mode to get clean.

My nightly bath is essential to my mental health. I say that with all sincerity. My husband and children know not to come near the bathroom while I’m taking a bath. When soaking in that magnificent hot water, the day’s weight lifts off my shoulders while my entire body relaxes. The scent of my favorite body wash calms my mind and relieves my daily stressors. The quiet and peaceful bath centers and decompresses my introverted self.

Sometimes I make it fancy with bubbles and a candle. But most of the time, it’s not. It doesn’t need to be. Give it a chance. I even turn my husband into a bath person.

When we think of self-care, we often think of grand excursions like a spa day or a girls’ trip. However, I have found self-care to be more effective when you can consistently do little things for yourself throughout the day. It’s also essential to communicate with your person about what you need.

A self-care routine reminds you that you are worthy, lovely, and called to your season. That season might feel like thriving, or it might feel like you’re barely surviving. Either way, I hope these self-care tips help you feel loved because you are!