self care set up with a candle, tea, chocolate bar and flowers on a wooden tray over a bath tub being filled

Self-care can feel like a buzzword these days — something we’re supposed to fit in, something we’re told we “need” in order to be good moms, good partners, good humans. But when you’re in the thick of motherhood, self-care can often feel impossible, or like one more thing on the to-do list.

The truth is, self-care doesn’t have to be about spa days, perfectly curated morning rituals, or uninterrupted “me time.”
It’s about nourishment.
It’s about remembering yourself.
It’s about staying connected to what feels good and supports your well-being — physically, mentally, and emotionally.

And that can look beautifully simple.

Redefining Self-Care for Real Mom Life

Self-care doesn’t have to be something you “schedule in.”
It can be woven into the rhythm of your day — in tiny, meaningful ways.

It might look like:

Drinking a full glass of water before your coffee
Stepping outside for fresh air while your child plays
Eating food that leaves your body feeling steady, not depleted
Taking an extra moment in the bathroom to breathe before returning to the noise

Small acts count.
Small acts are self-care.

Self-Care Through Presence, Not Escape

Often, we associate self-care with getting away — from the noise, the mess, the needs. And yes, solitude can be deeply replenishing. But self-care can also be something that happens in the life you already have.

It’s presence.
It’s softening.
It’s choosing the gentler option when you can.

For example:

Lighting a candle during breakfast to make the morning feel slower
Putting your phone in a drawer while you play on the floor
Listening to your favorite calming playlist while you tidy
Making your afternoon snack something nourishing and pleasurable

These aren’t tasks.
They are micro-moments of returning to yourself.

Caring for Your Body, Naturally

For many of us, clean living and mindful self-care overlap — because what we use on our bodies matters.

But it doesn’t have to be complicated.

You might try:

Choosing a gentle, non-toxic body oil and taking your time applying it
Making herbal tea part of your nighttime routine
Using skincare that feels simple and nurturing — not overwhelming. (Lately I’ve been loving Primally Pure because it keeps my routine gentle and uncomplicated.)
Saying no to products or routines that feel like “too much”

Your body knows when something feels supportive — let that guide you.

Rest Is Productive

(Actually, It’s Essential)

You are not meant to pour endlessly without replenishing.
Your body and mind require rest to function — not as a luxury, but as a biological need.

Rest can look like:

Laying down beside your child for nap time instead of rushing to be “productive”
Going to bed 20 minutes earlier
Choosing quiet over one more task
Letting the dishes wait

Rest is not wasted time.
Rest is repair.

Letting Self-Care Be Imperfect

Some days you will feel grounded and connected.
Some days you will forget to drink water until 2pm and realize you still haven’t brushed your hair (yesterday, this was me).

You’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough.
Self-care meets you where you are — not the other way around.

Where to Go Next

If you’d like to share this gentle approach with your child, you’ll love [Day 6: Teaching Kids About Health and Sustainability (Naturally)] — where we talk about modeling habits through curiosity and connection.

If you’re creating more calm rhythms in your home, revisit Day 4: Mindful Mornings — Setting the Tone for a Healthy Day.

Or circle back to the foundation with Day 1: Redefining “Clean Living” as a Mom (Without the Guilt).