Why is it that so many of the self-care ideas out there seem like they’re made for people without responsibilities? Yes, a day at the spa sounds nice, but if you have kids, a job, or both, that just isn’t practical. You may be able to organise something special once in a while, but we need self-care far more often than that!
So what’s a busy mum to do? Check out these 10 self-care ideas that can help you show yourself a little love, even when you’re short on time.
1. Hair mask
While lounging around the salon in a hot towel all morning is probably not on the cards, you can apply a hair mask at home and let it work its magic while you’re doing some chores around the house. Once a week (if I manage – but the intention is there 😅) I love to spritz a little water on my hair to dampen it, then apply the mask, clip my hair up, and wear a shower cap over it. The heat generated from putting the shower cap on helps the ingredients fuse into your hair and work better. Seriously, it is not hard to do and we should all be doing it.
2. Face mask
Like a hair mask, this is a self-care activity that can easily be done while you’re working on something else. Slather on your most luxurious mask and give your skin some joy while you’re doing the laundry! Some masks are actually overnight masks and are meant for you to sleep in. So you can apply one an hour or so before bedtime, to give the skin time to absorb some of the excess, and then head to bed. Win-win!
3. Quick DIY pedicure
Bring the salon home by giving yourself a quick DIY pedicure. Give your toenails a quick file and trim and then paint them. I like doing this when I know I won’t be moving around for a while, like when I’m about to sit down and work on my meal plans and shopping lists or work at my computer for a while. That way, my nails will have plenty of time to dry.
4. Enjoy a fancy beverage
Whether you find sipping on tea soothing or coffee is more your speed, why not treat yourself to a high-end blend or try a new variation? Bonus points if you get out your best mug to drink it! And when you drink it, be sure to take the time to truly savour it.
5. Watch the sunrise or sunset
We can’t enjoy a gorgeous sunset on the beach most days, but the sun does rise and set every day, so why not set aside a few minutes to step outside, look up, and appreciate nature’s beauty in the sky?
6. Practice mindful breathing
You don’t need to spend five hours meditating on top of a mountain to get the benefits; just taking a whole minute to watch your breath or try some techniques like alternate nostril breathing can instantly elevate your mood.
7. Sing
While you’re cooking dinner or driving to school to pick up the kids, sing along with your favourite songs – the more uplifting, the better. Yes, singing qualifies as self-care. It’s not just a creative outlet – it can also boost your mood by releasing “happy hormones” like oxytocin and serotonin.
8. Listen to an audiobook
I’m a big fan of audiobooks. They can make drives to the grocery store far more interesting, and listening to them makes chores like mopping the floor and ironing feel a lot less like “work”.
9. Work in a hand or foot massage
Grab a nicely scented cream or oil and give yourself a hand or foot massage. Even if you only have a few minutes to spare, you can easily fit this small act of self-care for moms into any day.
10. Practice mindfulness during your morning routine
When it comes to things moms can do for themselves, mindfulness is one of the easiest to add into a busy schedule. When you’re making your morning cup of coffee or tea, taking a shower, or taking the dog outside, take some time to notice the sensations around you – the temperature of the water, the scent of your shower gel or coffee, the sounds and colours of these acts. It can be surprisingly powerful.
These fun self-care activities for adults work with even the most hectic schedule, and they don’t have to cost any money at all. So what are you waiting for? Start showing yourself the love and care you deserve today!
Love,
Nakita xxx
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