10 ways to create guilt-free Mom Time

Pretty Pockets Diaper Bag Motherhood

Being a mother is a 24-hour job, with ZERO days off. Moms are QUEENS at multitasking; we keep the home immaculate, the children well-fed, and remember where everything is amongst our superpowers. One power that we do not utilize, however, is the power of self-care. Moms are the worst about taking time for themselves because of guilt and lack of time. Below are suggestions for creating a space for mom to take a break, no matter how busy.  

  1. Go to the gym - One of the best ways for us to take care of our family is to take care of ourselves. No one is allowed to be mad that Mom took an hour out of her day to exercise. 
  2. Mediate - It’s free and you can do this from the comfort your living room (sloppy buns are encouraged). Meditation creates an opportunity to be reflective about your day. Use this time to do deep breathing which can help to alleviate stress.
  3. Clean up and listen to music - This can create time for mom to disconnect and be with her own thoughts. Go ahead Mom, you belt out your best impression of Mariah Carey or Celine Dion. 
  4. Go get a pedicure! – Is the sun out and you are ready to rock your cutest pair of sandals? Spring and summer are a great excuse for a pedicure.  
  5. Go for a walk - Dog needs a walk? Kids going crazy? Grab the leash and the stroller and hit the pavement.  
  6. Laugh a lot - Laughter is the best medicine in the world. Laughter can relax the whole body and relieve tension. Laughter can also boost your immune system by decreasing stress hormones and can increase good anti-bodies that fight infections. Don’t delay; go watch that Ali Wong comedy special on Netflix that you have been thinking about watching for the past 6 months. 
  7. Write in a journal - Writing allows for a Mom to be mindful. Write your dreams, wishes, plans. Leave out the “to-do” or grocery list. 
  8. Read - Is your preschooler requesting to watch Elmo for the 10th time today? While they watch the show, catch up on one of those books you have been meaning to read. 
  9. Take a long shower or bath – Nothing spells “me time” like taking a long bath. The best time to do this is once the kids are down for the evening and all of the chores have been completed. Unwind with a glass of wine and let the warm water wash your worries away. 
  10. Ask for help - It okay to ask for help when you need it. Have your partner pick up the kids so that mom can have a quiet home for a moment, or if your kids are older, they can choose a night to prepare dinner for the family. 

What do you do to recuperate from the stress of being a Mom? What is your favorite thing to do for self-care?