Simple Self-Care Ideas for Moms: Finding Yourself Again in the Everyday
Steffani Baty
6/26/20264 min read
As moms, we spend so much of our time taking care of everyone else that we often forget to take care of ourselves. Between school drop-offs, meal prep, work, laundry, and the endless to-do lists, it's easy to lose sight of who we are outside of motherhood. I know I've felt that way.
There have been times when I felt like I was simply moving through the motions of each day, focused on everyone else's needs while completely neglecting my own. Recently, I've been making a conscious effort to change that. I've been prioritizing small acts of self-care, and I've noticed a huge difference in my mood, confidence, and overall well-being.
The best part? Self-care doesn't have to be expensive or take hours out of your day. Sometimes the smallest moments make the biggest impact. Here are a few of my favorite ways to show myself a little extra love.
Create a Relaxing Nighttime Routine
One of my favorite ways to unwind is by taking a warm bath before bed. After a busy day, it gives me a chance to slow down, relax, and clear my mind.
I love adding some bath salts, bubbles, candles, and even having a glass of wine or dark chocolate to make it feel luxurious. I also love to use a face mask during my baths! They definitely add to the experience.
Take Care of Your Skin
Motherhood changes our bodies in so many ways, and it's okay to want to feel confident in your skin.
I love using a moisturizing lotion after my bath and taking a few extra minutes to care for my skin. It's a simple act, but it helps me feel refreshed and put together. I even have begun to add in a firming lotion to help my areas of change after becoming a mom.
Give Your Hair Some Extra Love
A good hair mask is one of my favorite little luxuries. There's something about soft, healthy hair that instantly makes me feel more confident. I have fond memories of early 2000 TV and movies where the girls always had the most soft and bouncy looking hair. Ive been recently trying to replicate this look using some shine products.
I also like to take some time for a deep-conditioning treatment which helps add some moisture to my hair when it has been up in a bun most of the day!
Find Small Confidence Boosters
Self-care can look different for everyone.
For me, that might mean whitening my teeth, wearing my favorite perfume, putting on a cute outfit, or doing a little extra skincare. These things aren't about impressing anyone else. They’re about feeling good when I look in the mirror. Or feeling good in my body which has changed so much in the last 10 years.
Never underestimate the power of the little things that help you feel like yourself.
Have an At-Home Spa Night
One of my favorite traditions is doing my nails at home every couple of weeks.
After the kids are asleep, I'll put on a movie, grab my nail supplies, and enjoy some quiet time. It's affordable, relaxing, and gives me something fun to look forward to. I get to also be creative and try out new designs on nails or fun colors. I’m far from perfect but it’s still fun to give it a shot!
Move Your Body
Self-care isn't always bubble baths and skincare.
Sometimes it's going for a walk, lifting weights, stretching, dancing in the kitchen, or spending time outdoors. Moving your body can improve your mood, reduce stress, and help you reconnect with yourself.
I’m a personal trainer so I spend a lot of time in the gym and train lots of mothers. Exercise is one of the best ways to de-stress and show yourself some self love. Some gyms, like the one I am at, have kids centers. This is a great place for your kiddo to get away from screen time and have some time to play. All while you can get a workout in! There are also fun classes that promote relaxation like yoga. There are tons of ways to exercise both at home and in the gym! I will go over these ways in later posts.
Protect Time That's Just for You
This might be the most important self-care tip of all.
Find something that belongs entirely to you. Maybe it's reading before bed, enjoying your morning coffee in silence, gardening, crafting, journaling, or listening to a podcast during a walk.
You don't have to earn rest. You don't have to justify taking time for yourself. If you put the time and effort into showing yourself love, you show up as a better partner, mother, and person overall. But more importantly you are deserving of time for yourself. You are more than a mom. You are a person with interests, passions, dreams, and needs that deserve attention too.
Final Thoughts
Self-love isn't found in one big moment. It's built through small choices we make every day. It's choosing the bath. It's applying the lotion. It's taking the walk. It's painting your nails. It's giving yourself permission to rest. Even with a busy schedule, there is at least 10 minutes where you can nourish yourself.
If you've been feeling lost in the chaos of motherhood, start small. Pick one thing that makes you feel cared for and make time for it this week. You deserve the same love and care that you so freely give to everyone else.