5 tips for prioritizing self care; from a mom who gets it

Tip 1: Start Small

Self-care doesn’t have to be a huge, time-consuming event. Sometimes, it’s the little moments that matter most. Taking just a few minutes to practice deep breathing, stand outside and enjoy the sunset, or read a few pages of a good book can make a huge difference in how you feel. Be intentional with these small moments and give yourself permission to hit the pause button. These brief self-care practices throughout the day can help recharge you without adding stress, and creating a sense of calm.

Tip 2: Move Your Body Girl

It’s easy to think that you need an hour at the gym to get any benefit from exercise, but that’s not true! Even just 5 or 10 minutes of stretching, yoga, or a quick walk can do wonders for your mood, help you relieve stress, and boost your energy levels. A simple 10-minute walk after dinner helps with digestion for you and your kids and gives everyone a chance to burn off some energy. The key is to find what works for you, even if it’s a small, short burst of movement.

Tip 3: Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is so important for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. As moms, we often run on little sleep, but getting 7-8 hours (even if it’s broken up) is a game changer for physical and mental health. Try to set a bedtime for yourself—no later than 10 PM if possible. Create a calming bedtime routine and minimize screen time and blue light to help you fall asleep faster and wake up feeling more rested. Prioritizing sleep is one of the simplest yet most effective forms of self-care and your brain will thank you down the road!

Tip 4: Ask for Help (You Can't Do It All)

Whether you're in a relationship or a single mom, it’s so important to ask for help when you need it. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your partner, a close friend, or even a neighbor. If you don’t have someone close by, consider trading babysitting with another mom. Just an hour every couple of weeks can make a huge difference in your mental and emotional well-being. When you take time for yourself—whether it’s running errands alone or simply napping—you’ll return to your family feeling more refreshed and ready to give your best.

Tip 5: Condense Your Routines

I’m a mama of four, so trust me, I get it—there’s no such thing as having all the time in the world. Some things may have to wait, but caring for yourself should not be one of those things. Condensing routines can save you time and still allow you to take care of your basic needs. For me, that might mean scrubbing my face while I’m in the shower or applying oil to my skin once I’m out. For you, it might mean prioritizing one chore for tomorrow so you can relax this evening. Hello robo vac!! Seriously though, one of my most favorite appliances. Find small ways to streamline your tasks so you can squeeze in some self-care without sacrificing everything else.

You Deserve to Take Care of Yourself Too

I hope these tips help you prioritize self-care, especially during this busy time of year. It’s easy for moms to feel like we’re doing everything for everyone else and nothing for ourselves—but when we don’t take care of ourselves, we end up feeling drained, frustrated, and overwhelmed. This season should be about love, joy, and giving, but you can’t pour from an empty cup. You deserve to feel good too! So take a step back, be intentional, and make time for YOU. After all, look at everything you do for everyone else—you’ve earned it!

If you know another mom who’s struggling to prioritize herself, send her these tips. Maybe it will help her find a little balance too. 💕