16 Self Care Ideas for Busy Moms

by Amy · Published January 23, 2018 · Updated August 20, 2018

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No matter if you’re a mom who works outside of the home, or a busy stay at home mom, it can be hard to find “me time”.

Most mom’s, including myself, want the absolute best for their kids. We do everything we can to make sure they grow up happy, loved, and hopefully respectable adults one day. However, sometimes we get so busy as mom’s that it’s hard to find time for ourselves.

We have to remember that taking care of ourselves and enjoying time to ourselves, is also important to our well being. It also helps us to be better parents in the long run.

Here is a list of 16 self-care ideas for busy moms where you can do just that. Most of the items can be done with little to no money, and only a few require finding a sitter!

1. READ A BOOK

Find a book you’ve been wanting to read or download a new eBook. You can read a chapter or two when the kids are taking a nap, or at night after they go to sleep.

2. PICK UP A NEW HOBBY

It doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive, just something that makes you happy. You could try scrapbooking, jewelry making, photography, gardening, or even making your own DIY beauty products!

3. BUY A NEW BRA OR PRETTY UNDERWEAR

Nowadays there are bras and underwear that are not only pretty, but are comfortable and functional too! You can even order online in the comfort of your home, and have them shipped to your door from places like knix.com!

4. TAKE A NICE RELAXING BATH

Break out the nice smelling bubble bath or bath bombs, light a candle or two, and use your favorite scented lotion!

5. TAKE A WALK

Walking not only helps to improve your overall health, it can also help improve your mood!

6. TRY AROMATHERAPY

Light your favorite candle, or use essential oils in a diffuser. You could try lavender for a calming effect, or Orange or Bergamot essential oils for an uplifting scent.

7. GO WINDOW SHOPPING

Window shopping can inspire new fashion or decorating ideas and it’s a great way to get out of the house for a bit. Try browsing new shops, or even flea markets for fun vintage finds!

8. NAP WHEN THE KIDS NAP

If you’re a stay at home mom of little ones that still take daytime naps, it can be tempting to use that time to get stuff done such as the laundry or dishes. When you are feeling overwhelmed, sometimes a short nap can work wonders and leave you feeling energized.

9. ENJOY YOUR FAVORITE MEAL OR SPECIAL TREAT

Sit quietly for a few minutes (or longer if you have time) and enjoy your favorite food, a nice flavored tea, coffee, hot chocolate or even a glass of wine after the kids go to bed!

10. SCHEDULE A GIRLS TRIP

You don’t necessarily have to plan an overnight getaway, but if you can find a sitter for the day arrange to go somewhere with your friends. Try a place new within driving distance or even a new shop or restaurant you’ve been dying to try.

11. WRITE IN A JOURNAL OR START A BLOG

Writing can be extremely therapeutic for some people. Writing can help to clarify your thoughts, reduce stress and solve problems more effectively. Starting a blog also has many benefits, and it’s fairly easy to get started with minimal expense.

12. CALL A FRIEND

Call an old friend and catch up! Make plans to get together when you both have time, or schedule a playdate with the kids.

13. BINGE WATCH ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE SHOWS

DVR your favorite show and then binge watch after the kids go to sleep. You can also subscribe to one of the many streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, or Sling.

14. DO YOGA OR PRACTICE MEDITATION

Yoga can improve flexibility, build muscle strength and can be calming and restorative. Meditation can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and bring feelings of well being.

15. JOIN A MOMS GROUP ONLINE

Online moms groups can be a great way to interact with other moms. You can find moms that have kids the same age as yours, special niche groups, and even ask and answer questions!

16. DO NOTHING. REALLY, ITS OKAY

It’s easy to see the pile of dishes that need to be done, worry about work, or a million other everyday life stressors. Sometimes, you just have to let it go and do nothing. As long as it’s not urgent, it can usually wait.

Sometimes as mom’s it can be hard to find “me time” but practicing self-care, even if it’s just a few minutes a day is important. Practicing self-care will allow you to be much more relaxed, and able to handle all the joys and craziness of motherhood!