Moms are always on the go, pouring into everyone else and often leaving themselves last. I know how heavy that can feel. The truth is, when you take care of your own well-being, your family feels the difference too. Self-care doesn’t have to be fancy. Sometimes it’s the small daily things that bring balance and calm into a busy life.
I asked experts to share simple practices that busy moms can realistically do, and I’ve added my own touch along the way — because for me, self-care isn’t just about the body. It’s also about the soul.
1. Take brief breathing breaks
Carolina Estevez, a psychologist, shares how just 2 to 3 minutes of deep breathing can calm your nervous system and reset your mood.
This is something I practice too. I call it my pause button. Even three slow breaths can reset my mindset in the middle of a busy day. It also becomes a soul check-in moment for me — a reminder to slow down and lean into peace.
2. Step outside for a walk
Maegan Damugo reminds us that a simple walk outdoors, even for ten minutes, reduces stress and helps regulate mood.
Walking outside always feels like therapy. It clears my head and creates space to pray, reflect, or just enjoy nature. It’s often the most underrated form of self-care, yet it brings a real sense of renewal.
3. Take ten minutes of screen-free quiet
Belle Florendo suggests making time every day for intentional quiet without screens. It could be sipping tea in silence or sitting outside to breathe in the evening.
That pause is powerful. It resets the mind and helps you show up better for yourself and your family. I’ve found these moments of stillness are also where soul care begins — when you can listen to yourself, journal, or pray without distraction.
4. Practice evening gratitude
Ysabel Florendo recommends writing down two or three things you’re grateful for before bed. This small act lowers stress and helps improve sleep.
Gratitude journaling is one of my favorite soul care practices. Even on the most exhausting days, it shifts the focus from what went wrong to what was still good. That perspective changes everything.
5. Schedule fifteen minutes just for you
Sarah Bonza highlights the importance of setting aside at least 15 minutes daily for yourself. It doesn’t matter what you use it for — reading, stretching, journaling, or enjoying your coffee in peace.
I see this as protecting a pocket of peace that no one else can touch. Treat it as non-negotiable, the way you would protect your child’s nap time. That’s how powerful this practice becomes.
6. Add quick wellness habits
Mike Qu shares that even five minutes can make a difference. A short walk, a quick scalp massage, or stretching while the kids nap are small things that add up.
It’s not about perfect schedules. It’s about little resets that you can actually stick with. These are the kinds of habits that carry you through seasons where you don’t have hours for yourself but still need to recharge.
7. Create a morning ritual before the house wakes
Ydette Macaraeg encourages starting your day with intention. Whether it’s prayer, journaling, or enjoying coffee in silence, those early minutes set the tone.
I’ve seen how grounding the morning helps manage stress and brings balance to the rest of the day. It’s not always easy to wake up earlier, but even ten quiet minutes can shape how you respond to everything that follows.
These practices are realistic and sustainable. They prove that self-care is not selfish — it’s what allows you to recharge your mind, body, and soul. Even the smallest intentional act can shift how you feel and how you show up.
Start with one of these practices this week and let it grow from there. Remember, when you pour into yourself, your family benefits too.
Disclaimer
This article shares general self care ideas and personal reflections. It is not medical or therapeutic advice. Every parent’s situation is unique, so always do what works best for you and your family. If you have concerns about your health or well being, please seek professional guidance.
Check out my other blog posts for more self-care and travel inspiration.