Mums shouldn’t run on empty cups, here’s how you can squeeze in self-care during busy days
Happy mums make happy children!
MOTHERHOOD is a beautiful, life-changing journey, but let’s be real, it can also be incredibly exhausting.
Between school runs, meal preps, endless laundry, and managing the emotional needs of your little (and not-so-little) ones, it’s easy for mums to put their own well-being on the back burner. However, you can't pour from an empty cup, your health, happiness, and sanity matter too.
The good news? Self-care doesn’t have to be time-consuming or luxurious. Sometimes, the smallest moments of peace and joy can help refill your tank.
Here are 7 simple but powerful ways to sneak in self-care throughout your hectic day.
Start the day with a mini morning ritual
Before the chaos kicks in, carve out just 10 minutes in the morning for yourself. This could be as simple as sipping coffee in silence, journaling your thoughts, stretching, or stepping outside for fresh air.
Several studies suggested that early morning movement doesn’t drain your energy, it actually boosts it, helping you stay focused and productive throughout the day.
Starting the day with intention can reset your mindset and boost your energy. It sets the tone for how you face the challenges ahead. Remember, the day is yours too, not just your family's.
Take a screen-free lunch break
Ditch the phone and close the laptop, your lunch break deserves your full attention.
Use this time to unplug and truly savour your meal without distractions. Focus on the taste, smell, and texture of your food, and allow yourself to simply be present in the moment.
Not only does this help reduce mental fatigue and eye strain, but it also promotes mindful eating and gives your brain a much-needed breather. You’ll head back to work feeling more refreshed, centered, and ready to tackle the rest of your day.
Hydrate and nourish yourself (like you do for everyone else)
Mums often prioritise everyone else’s meals and forget their own.
Keep a water bottle with you and set reminders if needed to drink regularly. Prepare simple, nourishing snacks that are easy to grab on the go, think nuts, fruit, yogurt, or boiled eggs.
According to Healthline, fruits and vegetables are rich in essential vitamins and minerals that not only boost energy but also support your body’s overall function and fight fatigue.
Your body deserves the same care and attention you give your family, fuel it well so you can keep showing up as your best self.
Say yes to help (and no without guilt)
Self-care also means setting boundaries and knowing your limits.
If someone offers help, take it. Whether it’s your partner, a friend, or even a neighbor, leaning on others doesn’t make you weak.
Likewise, saying no to extra commitments protects your time and sanity. Guilt has no place in your self-care toolkit.
Move your body in ways that feel good
Exercise doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym or following an intense routine.
Even a quick walk around the neighborhood, a living room dance session, or a 10-minute yoga stretch while the kids nap can make a big difference.
According to Mayo Clinic, nearly any kind of physical activity, whether it’s aerobics or gentle yoga can help relieve stress, even for those who aren’t athletes or feel out of shape.
Moving your body boosts feel-good hormones like endorphins and helps clear away mental clutter. The trick is to choose something that brings you joy rather than feels like a chore. Focus on feeling good, not just burning calories.
Create a joy list and do one thing daily
List down little things that bring you joy, a favourite song, a phone call with a friend, reading a chapter from a book, or lighting your favorite scented candle.
Then, try to do at least one of these every day. It’s not selfish, it’s soul food. These tiny pleasures can make a huge difference in how you feel.
Wind down with a bedtime routine just for you
Even if the day felt chaotic, ending it on a calm note can make a big difference.
Once the kids are asleep, give yourself 15–20 minutes to unwind. Try a skincare routine, gentle stretching, a warm bath, or listening to calming music. This transition tells your body it’s safe to relax and recharge. Sleep is sacred, protect it.
Be a stronger mum, start from now!
Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish, it’s essential.
When you nurture your own well-being, you show up as a stronger, more present version of yourself for your family. Remember, even the smallest acts of self-care can make a big difference in your day.
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