Self Care for Moms | 100 Practical & Easy Ideas

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Last Updated on 04/25/2024 by Nell Marie

Hey mama to littles, I get it, I was once in your shoes. It’s exhausting, a little, or a lot, overwhelming, and boy I can’t tell you how important self care for moms is to keep you going.

And I’m not just talking about spa day, which is unrealistic for a lot of moms. I also don’t just mean sitting in a hot bath with candles, although that sounds amazing to me right about now.

I’m talking about journaling for 10 minutes in the morning, taking a nap when your kids are napping, fitting in time for yoga, or reading, or your favorite show.

I know a lot of people don’t get it, those ideas are just everyday things that people without children do and take for granted.

As a mother, these are luxuries that we have to make time for.

So, let’s chat more about ideas and the power of prioritizing self.

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Self Care for Moms

Self-care for moms is like hitting the reset button on a chaotic day.

It’s not about being selfish; it’s about staying sane!

Imagine being a superhero without a power-up — that’s what moms can feel like without self-care.

Whether it’s stealing a moment for a hot cup of coffee, zoning out with a good book, or catching up with friends, these little acts are like a mini-vacay for the soul.

Taking care of yourself isn’t just okay; it’s a non-negotiable part of the mom gig.

It’s the secret sauce that keeps the mom spirit alive and kicking, so you can bring your A-game to the family circus. After all, a happy mom is a supermom!

self care ideas for moms

Self Care Ideas for Moms

So, let’s chat about the ideas and how you can work them into your life. You need to see your alone time as important, you need to value yourself, and prioritizing yourself and not seeing that as selfish.

Once you do that, you’ll be able to squeeze in those valuable moments of self care that we all need.

100 Self Care Ideas

  1. Take a relaxing bath: Fill the tub with your favorite bath salts or bubbles, light some candles, and unwind in a soothing bath to melt away stress and tension.
  2. Go for a walk or jog: Enjoy the benefits of fresh air and exercise by taking a brisk walk or jog around your neighborhood or a nearby park, boosting both physical and mental well-being.
  3. Practice yoga: Delve into the calming world of yoga, whether it’s through a guided online session or a local class, to enhance flexibility, balance, and mindfulness.
  4. Have a quiet cup of tea or coffee: Take a moment to savor a hot beverage, enjoying the warmth and flavors while giving yourself a mindful break from the daily hustle.
  5. Read a book for pleasure: Immerse yourself in a good book, escaping into different worlds and narratives for a mental break from everyday stresses.
  6. Listen to your favorite music: Create a playlist of your favorite tunes and let the music uplift your mood or provide a calming backdrop to your day.
  7. Try a new hobby or revisit an old one: Engage in a hobby that brings you joy, whether it’s painting, knitting, or playing a musical instrument, allowing for creative expression and relaxation.
  8. Schedule a spa day at home: Treat yourself to a DIY spa day with face masks, soothing music, and pampering skincare to rejuvenate your skin and promote relaxation.
  9. Attend a workout class: Join a fitness class, either in person or online, to break a sweat, boost endorphins, and enjoy the camaraderie of a group setting.
  10. Take a nap: Allow yourself the luxury of a short nap to recharge and refresh, especially if you’ve had a particularly busy or sleep-deprived day.
  11. Write in a journal: Express your thoughts and feelings on paper, promoting self-reflection and providing an emotional outlet for stress relief.
  12. Watch a favorite TV show or movie: Indulge in some entertainment, whether it’s a favorite TV series or a feel-good movie, for a mental escape and relaxation.
  13. Meditate for a few minutes: Practice mindfulness meditation to center yourself, focus on the present moment, and cultivate a sense of calm and clarity.
  14. Have a picnic in the park: Pack a simple picnic and spend time outdoors, surrounded by nature, soaking in the sunshine, and enjoying a change of scenery.
  15. Take a day trip to a nearby town: Explore a nearby town or city, discovering new places, shops, and eateries for a change of pace.
  16. Get a massage: Treat yourself to a professional massage to release muscle tension, improve circulation, and indulge in a luxurious self-care experience.
  17. Cook a new recipe: Experiment with cooking by trying out a new recipe or cuisine, turning meal preparation into a creative and enjoyable activity.
  18. Declutter a small space in your home: Tackle a small decluttering project to create a sense of order and organization, promoting a peaceful living environment.
  19. Do a puzzle or play a game: Engage your mind with a puzzle or game, whether it’s a jigsaw puzzle, board game, or online game, providing a fun and stimulating break.
  20. Take a photography walk: Capture the beauty around you by going on a photography walk, exploring your surroundings with a camera or smartphone in hand.
  21. Try a new restaurant or café: Treat yourself to a meal at a new restaurant or café, enjoying new flavors and culinary experiences.
  22. Have a solo shopping spree: Take some time for retail therapy, exploring shops or online platforms to treat yourself to something special.
  23. Connect with friends over a video call: Schedule a virtual catch-up with friends, sharing laughter and conversation even if you can’t be physically together.
  24. Take a dance class: Whether in person or through online tutorials, dancing is a joyful way to exercise, express yourself, and have fun.
  25. Create a scrapbook: Preserve memories by creating a scrapbook with photos, mementos, and notes, allowing for a creative and sentimental outlet.
  26. Volunteer for a cause you care about: Give back to your community by volunteering for a cause that resonates with you, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
  27. Attend a live performance: Whether it’s a concert, play, or dance performance, immerse yourself in the arts for an enriching and entertaining experience.
  28. Plan a weekend getaway: Escape for a weekend retreat, exploring a new destination or enjoying a staycation for a change of scenery.
  29. Go stargazing: Spend a quiet evening under the stars, connecting with the vastness of the night sky for a peaceful and awe-inspiring experience.
  30. Learn a new instrument: Take on the challenge of learning a musical instrument, fostering creativity and providing a unique form of self-expression.
  31. Take a digital detox day: Unplug from screens and technology for a day, allowing your mind to reset and focus on the present moment.
  32. Visit a museum or art gallery: Immerse yourself in culture and art by visiting a museum or art gallery, appreciating creativity and gaining inspiration.
  33. Try a new workout routine: Shake up your fitness routine by trying a new workout, whether it’s a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session or a dance workout.
  34. Go to a comedy show: Laugh away stress by attending a live comedy show or watching a stand-up special, embracing the therapeutic power of humor.
  35. Attend a mindfulness or meditation workshop: Deepen your mindfulness practice by attending a workshop or class, learning new techniques to enhance relaxation and focus.
  36. Bake something sweet: Indulge your sweet tooth and enjoy the therapeutic process of baking, whether it’s cookies, cakes, or pastries.
  37. Take a painting or pottery class: Tap into your artistic side by trying a painting or pottery class, allowing for creative expression and the joy of making something with your hands.
  38. Enjoy a picnic at the beach: Combine the soothing sounds of the ocean with a picnic on the beach, creating a serene and refreshing atmosphere.
  39. Explore a local nature trail: Take a leisurely hike or nature walk, connecting with the outdoors and benefiting from the physical and mental perks of nature.
  40. Go on a photo scavenger hunt: Turn a simple walk or outing into a photo scavenger hunt, capturing interesting or unique moments along the way.
  41. Take a day off from household chores: Give yourself a break from household responsibilities for a day, allowing time for relaxation and leisure activities.
  42. Plan a DIY spa night: Create a spa-like atmosphere at home with facemasks, scented candles, and soothing music for a rejuvenating and pampering experience.
  43. Visit a farmers’ market: Explore a local farmers’ market, enjoying fresh produce, artisanal products, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
  44. Attend a local event or festival: Check out local events or festivals happening in your area, immersing yourself in the festivities and community spirit.
  45. Take a weekend retreat: Plan a weekend retreat, whether it’s at a cozy cabin, a wellness retreat, or simply a peaceful getaway to recharge.
  46. Go on a bike ride: Enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise by going for a bike ride, exploring scenic routes or cycling trails.
  47. Take a scenic drive: Embark on a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes, enjoying the tranquility and beauty along the way.
  48. Do a home workout: Follow an at-home workout routine, whether it’s a guided video or your own set of exercises, to boost your energy and fitness.
  49. Explore a nearby park: Spend a day exploring a nearby park, taking in the greenery, wildlife, and tranquility of the outdoors.
  50. Go for a swim: If possible, take a dip in a pool, lake, or ocean for a refreshing and invigorating experience.
  51. Take a day off from work: If feasible, give yourself a well-deserved day off from work to focus on self-care and relaxation.
  52. Explore a local art exhibit: Visit a local art exhibit or gallery, appreciating the creativity and expression of various artists.
  53. Have a picnic in your backyard: Create a cozy picnic in your own backyard, enjoying the outdoors without the need for travel.
  54. Try a new hairstyle or beauty routine: Experiment with your appearance by trying a new hairstyle or beauty routine, boosting your confidence and self-expression.
  55. Have a family game night: Gather the family for a night of board games, card games, or video games, promoting quality time and bonding.
  56. Attend a virtual event or webinar: Explore virtual events or webinars on topics of interest, expanding your knowledge and engaging with new ideas.
  57. Plant flowers or herbs: Cultivate a small garden by planting flowers or herbs, adding a touch of nature to your home.
  58. Do a puzzle or play a board game: Engage in a puzzle or board game solo or with friends and family, stimulating your mind and promoting social interaction.
  59. Take a creative writing class: Explore your creative side by taking a creative writing class, expressing your thoughts and stories through words.
  60. Have a DIY photo shoot: Play photographer for a day and have a DIY photo shoot, capturing moments or creating themed images for fun.
  61. Try a new hairstyle or beauty routine: Experiment with your appearance by trying a new hairstyle or beauty routine, boosting your confidence and self-expression.
  62. Attend a local sports game: Cheer for your local sports team at a game, enjoying the excitement of live sports and community spirit.
  63. Take a pottery or ceramics class: Dive into the tactile world of pottery or ceramics, creating unique pieces with your hands.
  64. Do a home improvement project: Tackle a small home improvement project, whether it’s organizing a space or adding a creative touch to your living environment.
  65. Take a day off from work: If feasible, give yourself a well-deserved day off from work to focus on self-care and relaxation.
  66. Explore a local historic site: Visit a local historic site or landmark, learning about the history and culture of your community.
  67. Go for a swim: If possible, take a dip in a pool, lake, or ocean for a refreshing and invigorating experience.
  68. Take a day to pamper yourself: Set aside a day for pampering, indulging in activities that make you feel good, from skincare routines to leisurely baths.
  69. Have a technology-free day: Disconnect from phones, tablets, and computers for a day, allowing yourself to be present in the moment without digital distractions.
  70. Attend a dance party: Whether it’s at a club, a dance class, or a virtual dance party, let loose and enjoy the rhythm of music.
  71. Plan a day of spontaneous activities: Embrace spontaneity by planning a day with no set agenda, allowing yourself to go with the flow and enjoy unexpected experiences.
  72. Try a new fitness class: Shake up your workout routine by trying a new fitness class, whether it’s kickboxing, spinning, or aerial yoga.
  73. Take a cooking class: Expand your culinary skills by taking a cooking class, learning new techniques and recipes.
  74. Do a home organization project: Tackle a home organization project, decluttering and creating a more streamlined and efficient living space.
  75. Have a technology-free day: Disconnect from phones, tablets, and computers for a day, allowing yourself to be present in the moment without digital distractions.
  76. Take a weekend retreat: Plan a weekend retreat, whether it’s at a cozy cabin, a wellness retreat, or simply a peaceful getaway to recharge.
  77. Explore a nearby town or city: Spend a day exploring a nearby town or city, discovering new shops, cafes, and attractions.
  78. Have a DIY craft night: Gather friends or family for a DIY craft night, creating handmade crafts and enjoying each other’s company.
  79. Go on a photo walk: Explore your surroundings with a camera or smartphone in hand, capturing interesting moments and scenes.
  80. Try a new restaurant cuisine: Venture out of your culinary comfort zone by trying a restaurant that serves a cuisine you’ve never experienced before.
  81. Attend a local farmers’ market: Explore a local farmers’ market, enjoying fresh produce, artisanal products, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
  82. Explore a nearby nature reserve: Immerse yourself in nature by exploring a nearby nature reserve, hiking trails, or bird-watching areas.
  83. Have a game night with friends: Host a game night with friends, playing board games, card games, or video games for a fun and social evening.
  84. Take a day trip to a scenic spot: Plan a day trip to a nearby scenic spot, whether it’s a waterfall, mountain, or lakeside retreat.
  85. Try a new type of meditation: Experiment with different meditation techniques, from guided meditation to mindfulness practices, to find what resonates best with you.
  86. Attend a live music performance: Enjoy the experience of live music by attending a concert or performance, immersing yourself in the energy and artistry.
  87. Take a pottery or ceramics class: Dive into the tactile world of pottery or ceramics, creating unique pieces with your hands.
  88. Explore a local historic site: Visit a local historic site or landmark, learning about the history and culture of your community.
  89. Have a picnic in a botanical garden: Combine the beauty of nature with a picnic in a botanical garden, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant blooms.
  90. Try a new workout app: Explore new workout routines and exercises by trying out a fitness app, providing guidance and variety to your exercise routine.
  91. Take a cooking or baking class: Enhance your culinary skills by taking a cooking or baking class, learning new recipes and techniques.
  92. Have a family movie night: Gather the family for a movie night at home, complete with popcorn and favorite films for a cozy and bonding experience.
  93. Try a new recipe for dinner: Experiment with dinner by trying out a new recipe, adding variety and excitement to your usual meal routine.
  94. Have a virtual coffee date with a friend: Connect with friends over a virtual coffee date, catching up and enjoying conversation even if you can’t be physically together.
  95. Explore a nearby nature reserve: Immerse yourself in nature by exploring a nearby nature reserve, hiking trails, or bird-watching areas.
  96. Take a photography class: Enhance your photography skills by taking a class, whether it’s in-person or online, to capture beautiful moments with more skill and creativity.
  97. Attend a virtual fitness class: Join a virtual fitness class for a convenient and engaging way to stay active and healthy from the comfort of your home.
  98. Have a DIY spa day at home: Transform your home into a spa with DIY facemasks, soothing music, and relaxation techniques for a rejuvenating experience.
  99. Try a new outdoor activity: Experiment with a new outdoor activity, whether it’s paddleboarding, rock climbing, or kayaking, for an adventurous and refreshing experience.
  100. Take a day to do absolutely nothing – guilt-free: Grant yourself the luxury of a day with no plans or obligations, allowing for complete relaxation and rejuvenation without any guilt.
self care ideas

Self Care Hobbies

One of my favorite ways to unwind and enjoy some alone time is with hobbies, specifically slow hobbies like crochet, embroidery, journaling, and painting.

But there are so many wonderful self care hobby ideas that we’ll explore below, which may help you with unwinding and taking care of yourself in these busy years of motherhood.

30 Self Care Hobbies

  1. Reading: Escape into the world of a good book to relax and unwind.
  2. Yoga: Practice yoga for physical and mental well-being.
  3. Journaling: Write down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to promote self-reflection.
  4. Gardening: Cultivate a garden to connect with nature and enjoy the therapeutic benefits.
  5. Photography: Capture moments and express creativity through photography.
  6. Painting or Drawing: Engage in artistic expression with painting or drawing.
  7. Cooking or Baking: Experiment with new recipes and enjoy the process of creating delicious meals.
  8. Hiking or Nature Walks: Explore outdoor trails for a combination of exercise and fresh air.
  9. Meditation: Incorporate mindfulness and meditation into your routine for relaxation.
  10. Dancing: Whether taking dance classes or dancing at home, it’s a fun way to stay active.
  11. Crafting: Explore various crafts like knitting, crocheting, or DIY projects.
  12. Puzzle Solving: Challenge your mind with puzzles or brain teasers.
  13. Music: Learn to play an instrument or simply enjoy listening to music.
  14. Volunteering: Contribute to a cause you’re passionate about through volunteer work.
  15. Fitness Classes: Join a fitness class that aligns with your interests, like Zumba, Pilates, or spinning.
  16. Travel Planning: Plan future trips or weekend getaways, fostering excitement and anticipation.
  17. Mindful Coloring: Engage in adult coloring books for a soothing and creative outlet.
  18. Pottery: Try your hand at creating pottery for a hands-on artistic experience.
  19. Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises: Incorporate simple mindfulness and breathing exercises into your daily routine.
  20. Podcasting: Share your thoughts or interests through podcasting, providing a creative outlet.
  21. Bird Watching: Connect with nature by observing birds in your backyard or local parks.
  22. Learn a Language: Use language learning apps or courses to pick up a new language.
  23. DIY Home Decor: Refresh your living space with DIY home decor projects.
  24. Running or Jogging: Incorporate running or jogging into your exercise routine for a cardiovascular boost.
  25. Board Games: Enjoy board games with family or friends for quality bonding time.
  26. Camping: Plan a camping trip to immerse yourself in the outdoors.
  27. Writing Poetry: Express emotions and creativity through poetry.
  28. Book Club: Join or start a book club to share and discuss literature with others.
  29. Knitting or Crocheting: Create cozy and personalized items with knitting or crocheting.
  30. Singing: Singing can be a joyful and stress-relieving activity.
self care hobbies

Journaling 101

Reasons why journaling is great for moms.

  1. Emotional Release: Journaling allows you to release and process emotions in a healthy way, serving as a therapeutic outlet for stress, anxiety, or frustration.
  2. Self-Discovery: Writing about your thoughts and experiences helps you gain insights into your values, beliefs, and personal growth, fostering self-discovery.
  3. Problem Solving: Journaling can aid in problem-solving by providing a space to explore challenges, brainstorm solutions, and gain clarity on various aspects of your life.
  4. Stress Reduction: The act of putting thoughts on paper can be cathartic, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels by externalizing and organizing your thoughts.
  5. Memory Preservation: Keeping a journal allows you to preserve memories and experiences, creating a tangible record of your life journey that you can reflect on in the future.

Beginner Embroidery

Beginner tips for hand embroidery.

Start Simple and Gradually Progress:

Tip: Begin with straightforward embroidery patterns and gradually challenge yourself with more complex designs as you gain confidence.

Reason: Starting simple builds a solid foundation and allows you to enjoy the learning process without feeling overwhelmed, fostering a sense of accomplishment.

Use High-Quality Materials:

Tip: Invest in good quality embroidery hoops, needles, and thread. Quality materials contribute to a more enjoyable stitching experience and enhance the overall outcome of your projects.

Reason: High-quality materials make the process smoother and increase the longevity of your finished embroidery pieces.

Experiment with Colors and Textures:

Tip: Don’t be afraid to play with different colors and types of threads. Experimenting with textures and shades adds depth and interest to your embroidery.

Reason: Exploring various colors and textures allows for creativity and personalization, making each project unique and visually appealing.

Establish a Relaxing Routine:

Tip: Designate specific times for embroidery in your routine, creating a relaxing atmosphere with soft lighting and calming music.

Reason: Incorporating embroidery into your routine provides a dedicated space for relaxation and creativity, allowing you to unwind and focus on the joy of stitching.

Join an Embroidery Community:

Tip: Connect with fellow embroidery enthusiasts, either locally or online. Participate in forums, workshops, or social media groups to share ideas, tips, and inspiration.

Reason: Being part of a community offers support, encouragement, and a platform to exchange knowledge. It can enhance your skills and make the hobby more enjoyable through shared experiences.


Crochet for Beginners

Tips for beginner crocheters.

Start with Simple Projects:

Tip: Begin with basic and small crochet projects to build your skills and confidence. Simple projects, like dishcloths or scarves, allow you to practice fundamental stitches.

Reason: Starting with simplicity helps you grasp the basics and gradually progress to more intricate patterns, fostering a sense of accomplishment.

Invest in Quality Yarn and Hooks:

Tip: Choose good quality yarn and invest in a range of crochet hooks. Quality materials enhance the overall experience and outcome of your projects.

Reason: High-quality materials make crocheting more enjoyable, ensuring smooth stitching and durable finished items.

Learn and Experiment with Stitch Patterns:

Tip: Explore different stitch patterns and techniques to add variety to your projects. There are countless stitch combinations that can create unique textures and designs.

Reason: Learning new stitches keeps crochet exciting and allows you to personalize your creations. It broadens your skill set and opens up possibilities for diverse projects.

Join Crochet Communities:

Tip: Connect with fellow crocheters by joining online forums, local clubs, or social media groups. Share your projects, ask for advice, and learn from others in the crochet community.

Reason: Being part of a crochet community provides a supportive network, inspiration, and a platform to exchange tips and ideas. It enhances your skills and enthusiasm for the craft.

Crochet for Relaxation and Mindfulness:

Tip: Use crochet as a form of relaxation. Set aside dedicated time for crocheting to unwind and practice mindfulness.

Reason: Crocheting is known to have therapeutic benefits, reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm. The repetitive nature of stitching can be meditative and help in focusing the mind.


Watercolor 101 for Beginners

Watercolor tips for beginners.

Start with Basic Techniques:

Tip: Begin with fundamental watercolor techniques such as washes, wet-on-wet, and dry brushing. Mastering these basics provides a strong foundation for more advanced painting.

Reason: Starting with simple techniques allows you to build confidence and understand how watercolors behave, making the learning process more enjoyable.

Invest in Quality Supplies:

Tip: Use high-quality watercolor paper, brushes, and paints. Good materials enhance your painting experience and contribute to the overall quality of your artwork.

Reason: Quality supplies result in better color vibrancy, paper durability, and overall control, ensuring that your paintings turn out as intended.

Experiment with Color Mixing:

Tip: Explore color mixing to understand how different hues blend and interact. Create a color chart to reference and experiment with creating a variety of shades.

Reason: Understanding color mixing allows you to achieve a broader range of tones and hues in your paintings, giving your artwork depth and dimension.

Practice Regularly and Keep a Sketchbook:

Tip: Dedicate time to regular practice and keep a watercolor sketchbook. Experiment with different subjects, techniques, and styles to continually develop your skills.

Reason: Consistent practice hones your abilities and helps you discover your artistic preferences. A sketchbook serves as a visual diary, capturing ideas and progress over time.

Embrace Mistakes and Happy Accidents:

Tip: Don’t be afraid to embrace mistakes or unexpected outcomes. Sometimes, these “happy accidents” (as Bob Ross called them) can lead to unique and interesting effects in your watercolor paintings.

Reason: Approaching painting with a willingness to adapt and learn from mistakes fosters creativity and a more relaxed, enjoyable painting experience.

self care tips

Self Care Wrap Up


So there you have it, superstar moms!

Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

Whether it’s stealing a quiet moment with a good book, rocking that bubble bath, or just savoring a hot cup of coffee, you deserve those self-care vibes.

So, sprinkle a little love on yourself amidst the chaos, because when mom’s happy, everyone’s happy!

You’ve got this!

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Did you find an idea or two you’ll add to your self care list? I’d love to know in the comments below!

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