Mama Self-Care: How to Make Time for Yourself and Be a More Present, Energized Mom

Mama Self-Care: How to Make Time for Yourself and Be a More Present, Energized Mom

Hey mamas! 💖 As a busy mom, it’s easy to put yourself last. Between feeding, diaper changes, playtime, and everything else that comes with motherhood, self-care often feels like a distant dream. But here’s the truth—taking time for yourself, even in small doses, is so important. It helps you recharge, so you can show up as the best version of yourself for your little one.

In today’s post, I’m going to share some simple, practical self-care tips that have made a world of difference for me. These are little practices that can be woven into your daily routine, whether you’re caring for a newborn, juggling multiple kiddos, or trying to keep up with life. And the best part? I’ll also be sharing some of my favorite products (found on Amazon, of course!) that have helped make self-care even easier.

Let’s dive in!

1. Ask for Help – It’s Okay to Lean on Your Village

Asking for help can be hard, especially when you want to do it all yourself. But I’ve learned that it’s totally okay to lean on your partner, family, or friends. Whether it’s asking your partner to take over baby duty for a bit, or having a friend bring over a meal or simply watch the baby for an hour while you rest, help is crucial.

One thing I’ve learned is that asking for help doesn’t make me a bad mom—it makes me a better mom. When I’m well-rested and recharged, I’m more present and patient with my baby. You deserve a break, so don’t be afraid to ask for it!

2. Create Quiet Time for Yourself

One of the best ways I’ve found to recharge during the day is by carving out a bit of quiet time for myself. Whether it’s a cup of coffee in the morning or an afternoon break when the baby naps, I try to use these moments to just be. It might be reading a book, journaling, or simply sitting in silence—whatever helps me clear my mind.

Amazon Product Tip: A great way to enhance your quiet time is by using a sound machine (like the Hatch Rest Sound Machine) to create a calm atmosphere. I love how it helps me tune out distractions, and the adjustable night light feature also works wonders for a peaceful, relaxing space.

3. Take a Warm Bath – Self-Care Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

Moms, we don’t always have the luxury of an hour-long spa session, but a warm bath is something you can easily fit into your routine. Even just 15 minutes of soaking in warm water with some calming scents (think lavender or eucalyptus!) can do wonders for your mental and physical well-being.

Amazon Product Tip: Try adding a bath soak like the Dr Teal’s Epsom Salt Soaking Solution to your bath. It’s inexpensive, smells amazing, and is great for relaxing your muscles after a long day of carrying or holding your baby. It’s a simple luxury that makes a world of difference!

4. Hands-Free Gadgets for Pumping – Keep Up with Feeding and Self-Care

If you’re breastfeeding or pumping, you know how time-consuming it can be. One of the best self-care tips I’ve discovered is using a hands-free breast pump. With a device like the Elvie Pump, I can pump while doing other things around the house—like catching up on emails, making lunch, or even folding laundry.

This has been a game-changer for me because I’m able to maintain my milk supply while still being productive. It’s a small way to give myself some time back in my day.

Amazon Product Tip: You can find affordable hands-free pumps like the momcozy handsfree breast pumps on Amazon. These pumps are discreet, quiet, and give you the flexibility to do other tasks while you pump, so you don’t have to sacrifice your self-care time.

5. Set a Routine for Baby Massage and Tummy Time

Taking care of your baby doesn’t just have to mean feeding and diapering. Setting a simple routine for things like baby massage or tummy time can not only help baby’s development, but it also gives you a chance to bond and relax together. A gentle baby massage with a calming oil or lotion is a wonderful way to wind down together.

Amazon Product Tip: I love using the Earth Mama Organic Baby Oil for massages. It’s safe, gentle, and smells so soothing! For tummy time, I use a soft baby play mat (like the Skip Hop Tummy Time Play Mat) that’s both comfortable for my little one and visually stimulating. Tummy time is a great way to help with your baby’s physical development, and it gives you a few moments of peaceful interaction.

6. Rest When the Baby Naps – Embrace the Power of Napping

It sounds obvious, but I have to remind myself sometimes: rest when the baby rests. It’s easy to fall into the trap of using nap time to do chores or scroll through your phone, but nothing beats the power of a nap for recharging your body and mind. Even a short 20-minute nap can leave you feeling so much more refreshed and energized.

If you’re finding it hard to nap during the day (because, let’s face it, you’re probably just trying to get anything done), I totally get it. But trust me—your baby will benefit from a well-rested mama, and you’ll feel more energized for the rest of the day.

Amazon Product Tip: If you’re struggling to sleep, consider using a sleep mask like the MZOO Sleep Eye Mask to block out any light and create a peaceful sleep environment, even during the day.

7. Take Care of Your Skin – A Quick Skincare Routine Can Make You Feel Human Again

Let’s be honest: As a mama, skincare often takes a backseat. But something as simple as a 5-minute skincare routine can do wonders for your confidence and overall well-being. Start with a gentle cleanser, followed by a moisturizing cream, and finish with some SPF to protect your skin. Even if you don’t have time for a full routine, a little effort goes a long way!

Amazon Product Tip: I love the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel for a quick, effective skincare routine that leaves my skin feeling refreshed. Both are affordable, hydrating, and perfect for busy mamas!

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Final Thoughts: Prioritize Your Self-Care, Mama

Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential for being a more present, energized mom. Whether it’s using hands-free gadgets, creating quiet time for yourself, or just resting when your baby naps, these small self-care practices make a big impact on your mental and physical well-being.

Remember, you deserve time for you. Don’t feel guilty for taking care of yourself. By making these small adjustments, you’ll be able to show up as the best version of yourself for your little one. After all, a happy, healthy mama is a happy, healthy baby!

Let me know in the comments if you have any favorite self-care tips or products that have helped you feel more balanced as a mama. And as always, take it one day at a time, mama—you’ve got this! 💕