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Self-care helps you maintain your physical, mental, and emotional health which is so important for busy moms.
It’s a way to take care of yourself and meet your own needs, rather than constantly putting the needs of others first.
When I became a mom I felt like I lost my identity. I barely took a shower, I stopped getting my hair done, and most of the time I had baby spit up on my shirt.
Self-care was nowhere to be found.
Here’s why you need to start prioritizing yourself and how self-care not only benefits you, but it’s beneficial for your family as well.
5 life-changing benefits of self-care
If you think you’re too busy for self-care think again! Here are 5 reasons to start making time for yourself even if you have a chaotic schedule.
1. Reduce stress and prevent burnout
Self-care can help you relax and recharge, which can reduce stress and prevent burnout.
As a mom, you’re always being pulled in a million directions. You juggle everyone’s schedules and try your best not to forget anything important.
There’s no doubt that motherhood is stressful which is why self-care needs to be a priority.
2. Improve your physical health
Engaging in self-care activities, such as exercise and healthy eating, can improve your physical health.
Keeping up with kids takes a lot of energy!
Staying as healthy as possible not only helps you keep up with your kids, but one day you’ll hopefully be able to keep up with your grandkids as well.
3. Boost your mental health
Self-care activities, such as journaling and mindfulness practices, can help improve your mental health and reduce the risk of developing mental health problems.
Your thoughts create your reality which is why it’s so important to be mindful of what you’re feeling and thinking.
4. Improve relationships
Taking care of yourself can help you be a better friend, partner, and parent, as you’ll be more rested and less stressed.
You won’t yell as much and feel bad about it later because you won’t feel so overwhelmed.
5. Promote personal growth
Practicing self-care can help you better understand your own needs and desires.
You can become the best version of yourself which is important for you and the people around you.
What causes a lack of self-care?
There are many reasons why moms might struggle with self-care.
A few common causes include…
- Being too busy or overwhelmed with work, family responsibilities, or other commitments.
- Not knowing how to take care of yourself.
- Feeling like you don’t have the time, energy, or resources.
- Feeling guilty for doing things for yourself.
- Having low self-esteem or feeling like you don’t deserve to take care of yourself.
- Struggling with a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety, makes it difficult to take care of yourself.
- Living in an environment or situation that isn’t conducive to self-care, such as a toxic relationship or a high-stress job.
- Experiencing a major life change, such as a death, a move, or a divorce, can disrupt your self-care routine.
If you’re struggling with self-care, it can be helpful to consider the root cause and seek support if needed.
This could involve talking to a therapist, reaching out to friends and family, or finding ways to make self-care a priority in your life.
What does poor self-care look like?
Poor self-care can take many forms and can look different for different people.
Here are a few examples of what poor self-care might look like…
- Neglecting to maintain a healthy diet or exercise routine
- Skipping medical appointments or not taking prescribed medications
- Failing to get enough sleep
- Neglecting personal hygiene, such as showering or brushing your teeth regularly
- Ignoring your emotional or mental health, such as not seeking help for depression or anxiety
- Avoiding self-care activities, such as taking breaks or engaging in hobbies or leisure activities
- Not setting boundaries or saying no to unreasonable requests
- Participating in unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, excessive drinking, or drug use
Taking care of yourself is an important part of maintaining your overall health and well-being.
What is a self-care kit?
A self-care kit can be a great way to take care of yourself and relax at home.
It’s full of items that help you relax, recharge, and find your identity outside of motherhood.
How do you make a homemade self-care kit?
To make a self-care kit you just need some type of basket or bin to hold your items.
Don’t overcomplicate it.
A sturdy bin like this can work or this cute basket can do the trick.
What should you put in your DIY self-care kit?
Here are some ideas for items you could include in your DIY self-care kit.
Essential oils
Essential oils are a form of alternative medicine that uses plant extracts to support your health and well-being.
According to Johns Hopkins, “some studies indicate that there’s a benefit to using essential oils while others show no improvement in symptoms.”
There are many different essential oils to choose from, and each one has its own unique properties and benefits.
Here are a few examples of essential oils that can be used for self-care.
- Lavender: This essential oil is known for its calming and relaxing properties and can be used to help reduce stress and improve sleep.
- Rose: This essential oil has a soothing and uplifting aroma and is often used to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
- Peppermint: This essential oil has a refreshing and invigorating scent and is often used to improve focus and clarity.
- Lemon: This essential oil has a refreshing scent and is often used to improve mood and boost energy.
- Tea tree: This essential oil has antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties and is often used to improve skin health and reduce acne.
It’s important to follow the instructions on the package and be mindful of any potential side effects when using essential oils.
It is also a good idea to dilute the essential oil before applying it to the skin or using it in a diffuser since essential oils affect people differently.
For instance, peppermint is often recommended for headaches but isn’t considered safe for children under 30 months.
The safest way to use essential oils is to…
- Use them in accessories like necklaces or bracelets.
- Use them as a body oil (but not full strength as this can cause skin irritation).
- Use them as an aroma stick.
When choosing high-quality essential oils, look for dark-colored glass containers that contain 100% essential oils, and no chemicals or fillers.
Candles
Candles can be a simple and effective way to enhance self-care practices, as they can help create a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere.
The soft glow of a candle, combined with the soothing scent of essential oils, can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
There are many types of candles to choose from, and the best one for self-care will depend on your personal preferences.
Aromatherapy candles
These candles are made with essential oils and can help promote relaxation, improve mood, and reduce stress.
Soy candles
These candles are made from soybean oil and are a natural and environmentally friendly option. They tend to burn longer and produce less soot than traditional candles.
Beeswax candles
These candles are made from beeswax and are another natural and environmentally friendly option. They have a natural, honey-like scent and are known for their long burn time.
Pro tip: Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before lighting to help prevent the flame from getting too high.
Epsom salt
Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, is a naturally occurring mineral that has a variety of uses.
It’s often used in self-care because it has several potential health benefits, including the ability to…
- Help relax the body and reduce stress
- Relieve muscle aches and pains
- Improve sleep
- Reduce inflammation
- Exfoliate and soften skin
One common way to use Epsom salt for self-care is to add it to a warm bath and soak in it for 20-30 minutes.
The warm water and Epsom salt can help relax the muscles and reduce inflammation, which can help relieve muscle aches and pains.
You can also add a few drops of essential oils to the bath for an extra relaxing experience.
Epsom salt can also be used in other self-care activities, such as foot soaks or as an exfoliating scrub.
Face masks
Using a face mask can help you relax and improve the appearance of your skin.
Face masks can be used to cleanse, exfoliate, and nourish the skin, and there are many different types to choose from depending on your skin type and concerns.
Consider these options when choosing your face mask.
Clay masks
These masks are made from natural clay and are great for oily or acne-prone skin. They can absorb excess oil, reduce the appearance of your pores, and improve the overall texture of your skin.
Hydrating masks
These masks are ideal for dry or dehydrated skin, as they help to moisturize and nourish your skin. They can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera.
Exfoliating masks
These masks help to remove dead skin cells and improve the overall texture of your skin. They can be made with physical exfoliants or chemical exfoliants.
Before applying the mask to your entire face do a patch test to make sure you don’t have any reactions.
A cozy blanket and pillow
A cozy blanket can help you feel comfortable and secure, while a supportive pillow can help you sleep more comfortably and wake up feeling refreshed.
Some things to consider when selecting your blanket and pillow for your self-care kit include…
- Material: Choose a material that is soft and comfortable, such as cotton, fleece, or wool.
- Weight: Consider whether you prefer a lighter or heavier blanket, as this can affect how warm and cozy you feel.
- Size: Make sure your blanket is large enough to cover your body comfortably and the pillow is the right size and shape for your head and neck.
- Care instructions: Look for blankets and pillows that are easy to care for so it won’t feel like a hassle to use or clean.
A cozy blanket and pillow can be a simple but effective way to practice self-care, whether you are relaxing at home or trying to get a good night’s sleep.
A journal
Keeping a journal can help you process your thoughts and emotions, set goals, and reflect on your experiences.
Writing in a journal can also be a creative outlet and a way to express yourself.
There are many different ways you can use a journal for self-care.
Write your thoughts
Writing about your thoughts and feelings can be a therapeutic way to process difficult emotions and gain insight into your thoughts and behaviors.
Set goals
You can use a journal to set personal or professional goals and track your progress toward achieving them.
Document daily life
You can use a journal to document your daily life and reflect on the events and experiences you had that day.
Drawing, painting, or collaging
If you prefer a more creative outlet, you can use your journal to draw, paint, or create collages.
There is no right or wrong way to use a journal for self-care, so it’s important to find a method that works for you and fits your needs.
It’s also a good idea to set aside regular time for journaling and make it a consistent part of your self-care routine.
A coloring book and colored pencils
Coloring can help you reduce stress and anxiety, improve your mood, and increase creativity.
A few ways to incorporate coloring into your self-care routine include…
- Coloring books: There are many coloring books available that feature a wide range of designs and patterns. You can choose a book that appeals to your interests and spend time coloring the pages.
- Adult coloring apps: There are also many coloring apps that you can use on your phone or tablet, which can be a convenient way to access coloring pages anytime and anywhere.
- Freehand coloring: If you prefer to create your own designs, you can use coloring pencils, markers, or paints to create your own art.
Coloring requires concentration, which can help you focus and unwind, and it can also be a meditative and mindful activity.
Tea or other soothing beverages
Drinking tea can help you unwind and de-stress after a long day.
Here are a few suggestions for teas you may want to add to your self-care kit.
- Chamomile tea is known for its calming and relaxing effects. It may help to reduce anxiety and promote sleep.
- Lavender tea has a calming aroma and may help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
- Peppermint tea can help to improve digestion and may also have a calming effect on the mind.
- Green tea is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to have numerous health benefits. It may also help to improve focus and concentration.
Take a few moments to relax with a cup of tea if you’re feeling particularly tired or stressed.
Comfortable pair of slippers
A comfortable pair of slippers makes me feel like I’m at a fancy spa on a tv show even though I’m actually in my living room scrolling through TikTok while my kids are barking like dogs.
A few things to consider when choosing slippers are…
- Comfort: Look for slippers that are soft and comfortable to wear. Memory foam insoles or padded footbeds can provide extra cushioning and support.
- Support: If you have any foot or ankle issues, you may want to look for slippers with arch support or a sturdy sole. This can help to reduce strain on your feet and improve comfort.
- Style: Choose slippers that reflect your style and make you feel good. Whether you prefer classic moccasins, fuzzy scuff slippers, or sleek loafers, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Remember to take care of your slippers by replacing them when they become worn out.
A playlist of your favorite music
Music can have a powerful effect on your emotions and can help you reduce stress and anxiety.
Create a playlist of songs that make you feel happy, relaxed, or energized. You can listen to this playlist when you need a boost of energy or when you want to unwind.
Music is also a great way to set the mood for different activities.
For example, you might listen to upbeat music when you’re exercising or cleaning, and listen to softer, more calming music when you’re trying to relax or sleep.
A playlist of podcast episodes
Many podcasts are designed to be calming and relaxing, making them a great addition to your self-care kit.
They also provide valuable information and inspiration.
Many podcasts offer information and inspiration on topics like mindfulness, self-improvement, and mental health which are all important.
Listening to these types of podcasts can be a great way to learn new things and gain new perspectives.
My favorite thing about podcasts is that they can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.
Podcasts are portable, so you can listen to them while you’re dropping your kids off at school, washing dishes, or relaxing in the bathtub.
An audiobook or physical book
Just like podcasts, audiobooks are a great way to unwind. I like to sit down with a physical book so I can get out of the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Have you ever heard the saying, “You have to slow down to speed up”?
I’ve found that slowing down and reading a physical book helps me focus more and enjoy the moment.
And then I’m more effective and efficient later because I’m not rushing to get everything done.
We get all of our books (audio and physical) from Amazon. You can grab a 30-day free trial of Audible Plus so you can save money on books.
A massage tool or a foam roller
Self-massage can improve your overall physical and mental well-being.
It can help to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.
Some self-massage options to consider include:
Massage balls
These small, round balls can be used to massage different parts of the body, such as the feet, back, and neck. They come in various sizes and materials, such as foam, rubber, or gel.
Massage rollers
These long, cylindrical tools can be used to roll over different parts of the body, such as the back, legs, and arms. They come in various sizes and materials, such as foam, wood, or metal.
Massage sticks
These are long, slender tools with knobbed or ridged surfaces that can be used to massage the muscles. They are often made of wood or metal.
Massage wands
These are handheld devices with a vibrating or pulsating head that can be used to massage different parts of the body.
Massage cushions
These are portable devices that can be placed on a chair or other surface and used to massage the back, neck, or other areas of the body.
It’s a good idea to try out a few different tools to see which ones feel most comfortable and effective for you.
Meaningful items to include in your self-care kit
The key to creating a self-care kit that helps you relax and feel good about yourself is to personalize it.
A few meaningful items to include in your self-care kit could be…
- A photo album or a frame with a picture of someone you love
- A piece of art or a decorative item that has personal significance
- A meditation app or a guided meditation CD
- A piece of jewelry or a scarf that has special meaning
- A puzzle or a game you enjoy
- A sentimental trinket or a small gift that brings back happy memories
Include items that help you feel grounded and connected to what matters most to you.
A self-care kit should be a collection of things that bring you joy and help you relax and recharge.
How often should you practice self-care?
Self-care is important for maintaining your physical, mental, and emotional health, and it can look different for everyone.
It’s important to practice self-care regularly, but the frequency will depend on your individual needs and lifestyle.
Some people may benefit from daily self-care practices, while others may need to focus on self-care a few times a week.
Don’t make it feel like a chore.
Create a simple self-care routine that helps you escape the stress and chaos of motherhood.
Quick recap…
A DIY self-care kit is full of items that are important to you. Don’t add items because you think you should add them.
Only include things that you genuinely enjoy.
If you love playing video games then include a few of your favorite games.
If you love crocheting, grab a new color of yarn or find new designs to create.
Self-care shouldn’t feel like a chore.
You should be excited and ready to make time for yourself. And if you don’t know what you enjoy, this list of 50+ hobbies for busy moms can help you come up with a few ideas.
