How to keep on top of self-care as a busy mum

The words ‘calm’ and ‘peace’ can seem pretty alien when you have young kids. Sleep can seem impossible, let alone any time to spend practising self-care. Life is hectic, and before you know it weeks have flown by without a single moment to yourself.

But while you’re taking care of your little ones, who’s taking care of you? We know just how important it is to dedicate time to self-care, which is why we’ve put together some tips on how you can fit some me-time in amongst all of the mum-time.

Take a breath

The best way to look after yourself on a busy day is to take a moment to breathe. It’s amazing what a couple of deep breaths can do when you’re feeling stressed. Just take 30 seconds to breathe in deeply, then breathe out.

If you have a little more time, why not try a bit of yoga or meditation too? Clear a little space on the floor, cross your legs, or try out a few easy yoga poses to really calm your mind and body.

Have a mini pamper sesh

While we all feel like we need a full spa day, sometimes a few smaller self-care pamper sessions will do a world of good. Run a hot bath, put on a facemask, light a candle… take a moment to really dedicate some time to yourself.

Your spa session can be as short or as long as you can afford. If you’re particularly busy, just take a little time to put on a face mask before bed, or take an extra minute or two to practise a good skincare routine. You’ve earned it!

Get outside

Spending time outside in nature has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall mental wellbeing. If you don’t have anyone to watch your little one, take them with you on a stroll in a pram or baby sling. But, if you can, it’s good to go by yourself or with friends to get a much needed break.

Time in the fresh air will help to clear your mind, while natural light has been proven to improve mood. Try to get out at least once a day to make the most of nature’s benefits.

Spend time with friends

When you’ve spent all day with your little one in your arms, taking them to the toilet with you, eating on the fly, and having CBeebies on all day, you will definitely feel the need to hang out with friends who aren’t demanding you play dress up.

You could go for a coffee and a chat, or just give them a ring. Maybe you can kill two birds with one stone and go out for a walk together! A ten minute catch up with your bestie is perfect for lifting your spirits and easing your worries.

Make time for things you love

As a parent, it sometimes feels like your new hobbies are changing nappies and picking up toys. Meanwhile, your books are gathering dust in the corner, or your tennis racket is covered in spider webs in the shed.

Arrange some time once a week, or maybe just once a month, to remind yourself why you loved your hobby in the first place. Bake something delicious, reach a new personal best, or realise you’re a little out of practice - it doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you have fun doing it.

Be kind to yourself

Being a mother is a tough job, and even after centuries of parenting no-one has managed to master the art. We all make mistakes. The most important tip for practising self care is to be kind to yourself.

You’re doing the best you can, and there’s no harm in taking time to look after yourself.

For more advice and parenting tips, you can find plenty of articles over on our blog.