#3: The 6 Pillars Of Self Care
The "6 Pillars of Self-Care" refer to a holistic approach to taking care of yourself, which includes different aspects of well-being that go beyond just physical health. No, they’re not some ancient wisdom passed down through generations (though we wish they were). These are simply a well-rounded way to take care of yourself in a way that goes way beyond just grabbing a salad or doing a few squats (if squats aren't your thing—I totally get it, they’re a pain in the ass and full pun intended). These pillars are all about balancing the chaos of motherhood by giving your mind, body, and emotions the TLC they deserve. While every mom’s self-care routine is a little different, these are the tried-and-true pillars that’ll help you thrive, not just survive, in your everyday hustle. So, grab that coffee (or wine, no judgement here), sit back, and let’s dive into these self-care pillars:
1. Physical Self-Care
First one on the list, physical self-care. The part of the self-care triangle that actually requires you to move your body... and yes, I’m talking about more than just running after your kids and lifting laundry baskets even if they feel like deadlifts. It’s about taking care of your body so you can keep being the superhero mom you are, but without the back pain, exhaustion, and feeling like Rice Krispies cereal with all the pops coming from your body from being hunched over all day.
Now, I know what you’re thinking—“I’m too busy to think about exercise or eating right, I’m just trying to make it through the day!” But here’s the thing: your body is your ride-or-die partner in this mom game, and if you don’t take care of it, you might find yourself running on fumes quicker and having less energy throughout your day. Physical self-care is about giving your body what it needs to keep going—whether that’s rest, movement, nutrition, or just showing it some love instead of just treating it like the personal service provider for your family.
What it looks like:
Physical self-care is about honoring your body with the same love and attention you give to your family (or, you know, that last cup of coffee you need). It’s not about becoming some gym goddess (unless you want to, in which case, you do you boo). It’s about doing little things that help your body feel energized, healthy, and ready to tackle whatever chaos comes next.
Movement that doesn't feel like a chore: Physical self-care isn’t about running marathons or signing up for a CrossFit challenge (unless that’s your thing). It’s about finding ways to move your body that actually feel good. Stretching in the morning, doing a quick workout in your living room, going for a hot mom walk with the kids, or even dancing like a crazy person to your kids’ music (thank God for Doggyland). You can get the benefits of physical care without turning into a total gym rat.
Sleep that doesn't involve negotiating with a 2-year-old: Let’s be real, getting quality sleep as a mom is like a roller coaster. But physical self-care also includes finding ways to get some quality rest, even if it’s just a 30-minute nap when your kids finally have their mid-day crash. Prioritizing sleep isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for survival. No sleep? You’re a walking, snapping zombie. Good sleep? You can conquer the world (or at least survive a full day of chaotic energy).
Nourishing your body: You deserve to eat more than just the leftover scraps from your kids’ plates (and if you’ve been there, we’ve all been there). Physical self-care includes eating foods that fuel your body and give you energy. We’re talking real food, not just a string of caffeine and carbs. Trust me, your body will thank you when you give it the good stuff—like fruits, veggies, whole grains and the occasional chocolate bar (for balance, duh).
How to incorporate physical self-care into your busy mom life:
Start the day with a 5-minute stretch: You don’t need to be a yoga master to stretch your body out in the morning. Just spend 5 minutes loosening up your muscles after a night of tossing and turning. Your body will thank you, and you might even feel like a slightly more human version of yourself. Bonus points if you do a couple of stretches while your kids are running around like sugar-charged maniacs as soon as they open their eyes. How tf do they do that, seriously?
Move like a toddler: Toddlers have the right idea. They don't sit still for five minutes—they’re constantly running, jumping, and wiggling. So, follow their lead! Set a timer for 10 minutes and just move. Dance, jog in place, or even do a quick circuit of jumping jacks. Trust me, it’ll make a world of difference in how you feel. You’re basically an adult version of a toddler, but with coffee and responsibilities.
Hydrate like you’re a houseplant: Your body is thirsty, and it's thirsty for more than just iced coffee (sorry to break it to you.) Water is life, mama! Try to drink a glass before you dive into your coffee or before you scarf down a meal. It helps your body function like it’s supposed to and keeps your energy levels up. If you’re feeling fancy, throw some fruit in it and call it "detox water"—you deserve the bougie life.
Prioritize rest (even if it’s just 20 minutes): I get it—you’re busy, and the laundry will never stop. But your body needs rest, too. It could be as simple as taking 20 minutes to sit down and breathe (yes, without your kids climbing on you). Maybe you even lay down for a mini nap. Your body will recharge, and you’ll be able to face the next round of toddler tantrums like a supermom (or at least like someone who hasn’t been awake for 72 hours straight).
Make “Me-Time” a non-negotiable: Even if it’s just for 15 minutes, carve out time where you do something that makes your body feel good. Whether it’s a bath, some gentle yoga, or strapping the kids into the double stroller and taking that hot mom walk, give your body the attention it deserves. You’ll feel so much better afterwards, and trust me, you’re gonna be ready to tackle those sticky fingerprints and endless toy cleanups like a pro.
Eat for fuel (and fun): We’re not talking about dieting or depriving yourself (because, please—treat yourself). But it’s about fueling your body with food that actually gives you energy, not just a sugar crash. Throw some protein, veggies, and fruit into your meals. And don’t forget to have a little fun with it—because life’s too short to not enjoy a piece of pizza (you deserve it, mama).
In conclusion: Physical self-care for busy moms is all about taking the time to feel good in your body. It’s not about becoming a fitness guru or cutting out all the fun stuff—it’s about finding ways to move, rest, hydrate, balance and nourish your body so you can keep rocking this whole mom thing. You’re more than just a mom—you’re a powerhouse, and your body deserves a little TLC.
So go ahead, stretch, drink some water, and remember: you’re not just taking care of your kids—you’re taking care of the amazing person who makes it all happen. That’s you, babe.
2. Emotional Self-Care
Oh, emotional self-care—this is the real secret sauce of keeping your sanity as a busy mom. It’s all about taking care of your heart and soul in the middle of all the chaos, and making sure you don’t lose yourself in the whirlwind of snack requests, laundry mountains, and tiny people who always need something. It’s about making sure your emotional tank doesn’t run on empty while you're busy filling up everyone else's.
Emotional self-care is like giving yourself a little “time-out” from all the feels. It’s about checking in with yourself, giving yourself permission to feel what you feel, and actively doing things to soothe or uplift your mood. It’s not just about surviving motherhood—it's about thriving and protecting your emotional well-being like the badass you are.
What it looks like:
Emotional self-care is less about doing big, grand gestures (though that would be nice, right?) and more about the little things that help you feel grounded, balanced, and emotionally intact amidst the chaos. It’s the stuff that helps you process your emotions without spiraling into the mom guilt abyss or feeling like a ball of stress and frustration. It’s like giving your emotions a VIP seat to the "You Deserve Better" show, but without the drama.
Recognizing your feelings (without judging them): It’s about being real with yourself. Are you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or even angry? That’s okay! Let yourself feel those emotions without shaming yourself. Acknowledge them, then do something about it. Trust me, ignoring your feelings doesn’t make them go away, it just makes them more annoying—like a toddler that wants to eat all the snacks right before dinner.
Self-compassion: Imagine if you treated yourself with the same kindness you show your kids (or that one friend who always forgets their wallet). When you mess up, make a mistake, or have a tough day, be gentle with yourself. You are allowed to have bad moments. You don’t need to be the perfect mom or partner 100% of the time. Give yourself a pass now and then.
Letting go of toxic positivity: It’s one thing to be optimistic, but it’s another to pretend everything is sunshine and rainbows when your mental health is screaming for a nap. Emotional self-care is about being honest about your struggles—without feeling guilty for not being “happy” all the time. It’s okay not to be okay. No need to wear a smile like a mask.
How to incorporate emotional self-care into your chaotic daily life:
Have a “Feelings Check-In” (even if it’s just with yourself): Take a moment when you’re feeling overwhelmed (or when you’re in the bathroom hiding from the kids) and ask yourself, “How am I really feeling right now?” Are you stressed? Anxious? Just tired? Identify it and validate it. Sometimes just naming it can be a game-changer. Bonus points if you give it a funny name, like, “I’m feeling like a burnt-out toaster.”
Cry it out if you need to: Emotional self-care isn’t about suppressing your feelings; it’s about letting them flow. If you need to cry because your kid suddenly hates their go-to food again, do it. Crying is like hitting the emotional reset button, and we all need a good emotional flush now and then. No shame, mama.
Practice the art of “emotional venting”: Find a safe, non-judgmental space to vent about your day, your struggles, or even the fact that your child decided the living room floor was a great place to draw “art” with their crayons again. You don’t need to bottle it all up! Whether it’s a close friend, your mama, or even a trusted online group (shout out to the mom Facebook groups), having someone who gets it is golden.
Create a “Mood Boosting Playlist”: Music can be everything when it comes to shifting your emotions. Create a playlist of songs that make you feel good. Whether it’s your favorite throwback jam or some upbeat country hits, let yourself dance in the kitchen like no one’s watching (because they aren’t). You’d be amazed how a few minutes of dancing around can instantly lift your mood and make you feel lighter.
Take mini-breaks, and I mean mini: You don’t have to have a solo vacation to practice emotional self-care (though, yes please if you can!). It can be as simple as stepping away for five minutes to breathe, drink a cup of tea, or just sit in complete silence for a hot second. Let your emotions settle, then dive back into the fray.
Laugh like a lunatic: Find the humor in the madness. Did your kid just spill an entire glass of juice? Did your toddler wear their cereal as a hair accessory? That’s a moment for laughter, my friend. Laughter is one of the best ways to reset your emotions, and sometimes you just need to laugh at the mess and chaos to keep from crying.
Create an “Emotional Toolbox”: Stock up on some quick tricks for when you feel your emotions going into a tailspin. It could be something like a breathing exercise, a funny podcast, or even a self-affirmation you love. “I am enough, even if my house looks like a disaster.” Give yourself something to grab onto when life feels like a rollercoaster.
In conclusion: Emotional self-care for moms is non-negotiable, honey! It’s about acknowledging your emotions without guilt, treating yourself with kindness, and incorporating tiny moments of care into your daily routine to help keep your heart happy and healthy. You’re doing so much, but don’t forget to fill up your emotional tank too. Because without it, you’ll be running on empty—and we both know that’s a recipe for disaster. So go ahead, laugh, cry, dance, vent, or just take a damn break—you’ve earned it.
3. Mental Self-Care
Mental self-care is the essential ingredient to making sure you don't lose your marbles while navigating the chaos of mom life. It’s like giving your brain a big hug and saying, “Hey, I got you. Let’s not freak out today.” It’s all about tuning into your own needs—mentally—and making sure you’re not running on fumes and wondering why your brain feels like a scrambled egg.
As a busy mom, mental self-care isn’t just about booking a spa day (we wish). It’s about finding those small, realistic ways to give your mind a break, reset, or just let off some steam, because let’s face it, your brain deserves a break from "Who needs to go where?" "Did I pack enough snacks?" "What time is the dentist?" and "Why does my kid think that bath time is a full-on splash event?"
What it looks like:
Mental self-care is not about perfection, it’s about protection. It’s about making sure that you’re mentally equipped to handle whatever the day throws your way, whether it’s a toddler meltdown or your partner not knowing how to use a washing machine. You’re protecting your mental peace, so you don’t end up crying into your 2nd cup of cold coffee while the kids run around like maniacs.
Digital Detox: We live on our phones, iPads, computers and yes, I am equally guilty in this. It’s time for a digital detox ladies. A digital detox is like hitting the "off" button on your tech-heavy life. It’s the act of taking a break from screens—no emails, no social media, no notifications constantly buzzing. Think of it as giving your brain a vacation from the digital noise, letting you reconnect with real life, people, and maybe even your own thoughts. It's about recharging your mental battery, so when you finally do return to the digital world, you're feeling less like a zombie and more like a fully-functioning human.
Carving out quiet moments (even if it’s 5 minutes): You know how your brain feels like it's constantly on overdrive? Yeah, that’s real. So, mental self-care looks like finding even five minutes of peace in a sea of chaos. A quick bathroom break where you hide for a split second in silence. Maybe you scroll through TikTok (no judgement), but at least you’re giving yourself a little mental timeout.
Not taking on everyone else’s emotional baggage: Sure, you care deeply about your family and friends, but mental self-care means not absorbing all their drama. You’re already doing the mental gymnastics of motherhood. You don’t need to carry their emotional weight, either. Get your “Nope” face ready and practice it—sometimes you gotta keep your emotional space clean.
How to incorporate mental self-care into your busy mom life:
Dance it out like no one’s watching: Have you ever watched Grey’s Anatomy? (If not, you need to) Meredith and Christina “dance it out” as a way to process intense emotions and resolve conflicts they were going through. You’ve seen your kids throw a tantrum in the middle of the living room, right? You have permission to dance just as wildly (but, you know, with better music). Put on your favorite song, shake it out for 2 minutes, and let your brain go, “Fuck, I needed this!” This is a great way to get your body moving, get some energy out, and remind your mind that it’s okay to have fun amidst the madness.
Talk to yourself like you're your own best friend: I know, sounds corny, but hear me out. You know how you hype up your kids or your friends when they’re feeling overwhelmed? Do that for yourself. When you’re about to lose it over the 45th mess of the day, pause and say, “You’re doing great. You are killing it. Let’s take a deep breath and keep going.” It works. You're your own biggest cheerleader—be kind to yourself!
Mental breaks during the chaos: This one’s golden: When the chaos hits, take a 2-minute break. Yes, your kids might be yelling or fighting over the last cookie, but you—you—deserve a breather. Go to the bathroom, take a few deep breaths, and remind yourself that you don’t need to handle everything right now. A mental pause can do wonders for your ability to think straight.
Mindful moments with coffee (or wine): Let’s be real, your morning coffee is your sacred time. Treat it like the VIP moment it is! Whether it’s savoring that warm cup for a couple of minutes of peace, or turning your evening glass of wine into a “me-time” ritual, enjoy these moments. Don’t rush through them. You deserve those 10 minutes where you’re not thinking about your next to-do list item.
Say “no” to guilt: That internal guilt monster who tells you that you should be doing more? Kick it to the curb. Mental self-care is about knowing that you don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be your best, real self. And your best self doesn’t have to do everything, all the time. Say it with me: “I am not supermom, and that’s totally okay.”
In short: Mental self-care for busy moms is about finding tiny pockets of peace and grace in a life that is, frankly, a hot mess sometimes. Whether it’s dancing, setting boundaries, or simply giving yourself permission to take a breather, it's about giving your mind the space it deserves. Your brain is working overtime—don’t forget to show it a little love. 💅
4. Social Self-Care
Social self-care—it’s like the cherry on top of your mental health sundae, except that cherry is actually a good friend, a bit of "me time," and a few moments where you’re not elbow-deep in someone else's mess or wiping tiny butts. It’s about nourishing your social connections and making sure you're not just the person who feeds, clothes, and chauffeurs everyone to their lives while completely forgetting about your own social needs.
As a busy mom, social self-care might look like finally carving out time for the things and people that make you feel energized, understood, and appreciated—whether that’s connecting with other humans or just letting the right people into your chaotic world (and not the ones who keep draining you).
What it looks like:
It’s about balancing your social interactions and ensuring they help you feel good. Because let’s face it, you can’t go around chatting with people who make you feel like a human trash can. Social self-care is about the quality of the connections, not the quantity.
Making time for friends who get you: Not the friend who sends you 17 texts a day demanding a playdate, but the one who knows you're busy, but still manages to drop off your favorite wine, facetime you on your normal commute to drop off, or simply texts "How are you my love?" when you’re clearly not okay. It’s those friends who make your heart smile, and that’s key.
Having me-time in a social context: Yeah, you’ve got a million things on your plate, but even if it’s just a quick coffee with a friend (or even a facetime), it’s an actual break from the chaos. You don’t have to discuss your kids for the whole time. Talk about your dreams, your wild ideas, your favorite obscure TV show. Talk about something other than snack demands and spilled juice.
Setting boundaries like a boss: Social self-care also means you have the right to say, “Nope, not today” to invitations that will just suck the life out of you. When your friend wants to dive into the latest drama and you just don’t have the patience to deal with it at the moment, practice your new favorite word: “Nah.” Your time and energy are precious, mama.
How to incorporate social self-care into your crazy life:
Text a friend a random check-in: Not everything has to be a long, deep conversation, ya know. Send a quick, “Hey, I’m alive, how are YOU?” to a friend you haven’t talked to in a while. You’ll feel connected, and they’ll appreciate it. Social care doesn’t always have to be a two-hour lunch.
Guilt-free nights out (or in): When the stars align and you get that rare free evening, plan something that will light you up. A wine-and-gossip session with your bestie? Absolutely. Netflix and popcorn in peace without a small child asking you where the socks are for the hundredth time? Heaven. Do it.
Let someone help you out for once: Do you have someone in your life who’s always saying, “Let me know if you need anything!”? Take them up on it! Ask for a hand with the kids or let them bring dinner over (or wine). It's okay to let someone else fill your social cup by being kind and supportive. This counts as self-care and social care!
Join a mom group or online community: Whether it’s a Facebook group, the Peanut app, or a local “mommy meetup,” having a circle of people who actually get what it’s like to be in your shoes can be the ultimate game-changer. You’re not alone in the "please, just let me eat this donut without someone crying" struggle.
Schedule regular solo or couple dates: Sometimes the best social self-care is scheduling a regular "date" with your partner, your best friend, or even yourself. Whether it’s a 15-minute chat with a friend during nap time, or a once-a-month dinner with your partner, schedule it. Because if you don’t, well… everyone’s gonna forget that you have an identity beyond being a glorified snack distributor.
In summary: Social self-care is about making space for the connections that recharge you and ditching the ones that drain you. As a busy mom, that might mean sneaking in time for a laugh, a hug, or just an occasional break from the kids. You don’t need hours or endless plans—just a few moments to say, “I’m more than just the person who does all the things for everyone else.” So go ahead, text that friend, schedule that coffee, and remember: You deserve the kind of social energy that makes you feel like a human, not just a chauffeur.
5. Spiritual Self-Care
Spiritual self-care; the often-overlooked gem of the self-care world. It’s the part where you nurture your soul, find your sense of purpose, and basically recharge your inner battery so you can keep showing up as the best version of yourself—without losing your mind in the process. For busy moms, it can sound like a luxury (or something to do only when you’ve hit "retirement age"), but trust me, mama, it’s crucial. You can’t give what you don’t have, so your spiritual health needs to be top of mind—even in the madness of family life.
Spiritual self-care isn’t just about church, chakras or meditation (though, hey, if that’s your thing, go for it!). It’s about connecting with your inner self, finding your sense of peace, healing and loving your inner child, and embracing whatever higher meaning or energy that gives you a sense of grounding. Whether that’s through faith, nature, mindfulness, astrology, crystals, or a good ol’ dose of gratitude, spiritual self-care is about finding moments of calm and clarity amidst the whirlwind.
What it looks like:
Spiritual self-care is anything that nurtures your inner peace and helps you feel like you’re more than just a walking snack dispenser and chauffeur. It's about creating space to feel connected—to yourself, to your kids, to others, to something bigger than your to-do list. It’s about tending to your soul and making sure you’re not running on empty when it comes to your sense of purpose or inner calm.
Moments of silence and reflection: You know those moments when your brain goes into overdrive with a thousand thoughts and worries then before you know it, you’re drowning in overthinking-mode? Spiritual self-care is about creating quiet space—even if it’s just a few minutes—to pause, breathe, and reflect. You’re giving your brain a chance to reset and your spirit a moment to breathe.
Gratitude: I know, I know—this sounds super “delulu” and it’s easy to roll your eyes when your brain is full of “I’m exhausted” and “I can’t believe I’m out of milk again.” But listen, practicing gratitude—sincerely and often—can actually shift your mindset. Taking just a minute to jot down 3 things you’re thankful for can instantly ground you. Maybe it’s the fact that you got through a day without a major disaster, it’s a beautiful, sunny day, or maybe it’s the fact that your kids finally took a nap at the same time.
Connection to your faith or higher power: Spiritual self-care might involve connecting with your religious or spiritual practices. If prayer, meditation, or rituals give you peace and strength, make space for them. They’re like little emotional and spiritual snacks, keeping you connected to a bigger picture.
How to incorporate spiritual self-care into your daily life as a busy mom:
Start your day with a 5-minute mindfulness moment: I get it—getting your kids fed, dressed, and out the door feels like a military operation. But before you launch into the chaos, take five minutes to center yourself. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and say a few affirmations to yourself. Examples: you are capable, you are strong, you’re an amazing mom and you’ve got this. If that’s not your vibe, simply take a few seconds to express gratitude for something—even if it’s the fact that you have coffee within arm’s reach.
Turn your chores into “sacred moments”: You know how you dread folding that never-ending laundry pile? What if you could turn that into a spiritual practice? Take a minute to breathe in between each load, reflect on the good things in your life, or even play a calming playlist while you do it. Or simply be thankful you can wash, dry, fold and put those cute little onesies away. You’re not just folding towels—you’re nurturing your spirit while you multi-task. That's next-level mom stuff.
Breathe some fresh air: You don’t have to go on a week-long retreat to reconnect with nature. Step outside for a few minutes each day—it can be a walk around the block, go for a nature walk with the kiddos, sit in your backyard with your face toward the sun (or hiding from the kids in your garden), or just gazing at the stars for a moment of calm. Nature has this incredible ability to remind us that there’s something much bigger than our never-ending to-do list.
Find a moment of stillness in the chaos: Here’s the secret: You don’t need hours of uninterrupted silence to practice spiritual self-care. The key is finding nuggets of peace in the chaos. Maybe it’s taking a few deep breaths while you're waiting for the microwave to finish or grabbing a few seconds of stillness in the car while your kids are distracted. You’re creating spiritual space, even if it's only for a hot second.
Engage in a creative activity: Doing something creative—whether it’s painting, knitting, journaling, singing, or even cooking a meal with love—can be a deeply spiritual act. You’re tapping into your inner creativity and, in turn, your sense of self. Plus, it feels so good to have a “me moment” where you can just let your soul flow.
Practice compassion and kindness: Extend the love you give to others (your kids, your partner, your mom) right back to yourself. You deserve it. You’re working hard, and you need to give yourself the grace to not be perfect. Be kind to yourself in your thoughts and actions. It’s all part of nurturing your spirit.
Create a bedtime routine: You might be crawling into bed after a chaotic day, but before you pass out, take a moment to wind down. When you’re washing your face, imagine the water washing away any negative energy of the day. Maybe it’s saying a prayer, doing a quick meditation, or even reading a passage that gives you peace. Your body and mind will thank you for setting the stage for restful sleep.
In conclusion: Spiritual self-care is about making time for small, meaningful acts that nurture your inner peace. Protecting your energy and aura. Whether it’s quiet moments, gratitude practices, or connecting with nature, it's about creating space for yourself to reconnect with what grounds you. And remember, mama, you deserve all of it. Taking care of your soul means you’ll have more love, patience, and energy to pour into your family and your life. So go ahead, take a moment to breathe, find a little peace, and remind yourself that you’re part of something bigger than the never-ending pile of laundry.
6. Environmental Self-Care
Last but definitely not least, environmental self-care. The “clean up your act” portion of the self-care world- literally. It’s about creating spaces that make you feel good, calm, and able to breathe in the midst of the hurricane that is family life. This doesn’t mean you need to have a Pinterest-perfect house (because, let’s be real—who has time for that?). Instead, environmental self-care is about curating your surroundings so that you feel better, more relaxed, and energized—no matter how chaotic the day gets.
As a busy mom, it’s easy to fall into the trap of living in a constant state of “organized chaos.” But, surprise, your environment can actually affect your mood, productivity, and overall sense of well-being. When your space is cluttered and overwhelming, your brain can feel the same way. But when you carve out a calm, organized environment (even if it’s just a tiny corner of your home), it can actually help you feel more at peace and less like you’re losing your mind.
What it looks like:
Environmental self-care is about creating and maintaining an environment that nurtures your mental and emotional health. It’s about setting up spaces where you can recharge, relax, and feel like you have some level of control over your surroundings. It doesn’t have to be spotless (because if you’re a mom, you know that’s a joke). It’s about designing your home—or even just parts of it—in a way that feels good to be in. And let’s face it, we all need some good vibes, especially when our kids are constantly throwing toys around like they’re trying to launch them into orbit.
Decluttering your space (but also not becoming a minimalist guru): Environmental self-care is about making sure your space functions for you, not against you. It’s about simplifying the areas where you spend most of your time, like the kitchen or living room, so that they work for you. You don't have to organize everything—just take a breath, and maybe throw away the stuff that’s just taking up space (like that pile of mis-matched socks or broken crayons).
Creating peaceful spaces: It could be as simple as making your bedroom a sanctuary so you feel better when you go to bed and at least that is tidy and organized. Or setting up a cozy reading nook with pillows and blankets to escape for some quiet moments. Light a candle, put on some soothing music, and enjoy a calm atmosphere that helps you relax (without your kid trying to blow out the candle into their next birthday wish). It’s about finding places where you can just breathe and hit pause.
A little organization goes a long way: Look, we all know everything in a mom’s life has a tendency to become a mess, but taking a few minutes to organize a few spaces—like your kitchen counter, entryway, or even your car—can make a world of difference. When your space feels more organized, you feel more in control of the chaos. And bonus: fewer tantrums about the never-ending pile of Legos on the floor and your feet will thank you.
How to incorporate environmental self-care into your busy mom life:
Tidy as you go: You don't need to spend hours cleaning (who has time for that?). Just do a quick 10-minute tidy-up session when you can. If you’re in the kitchen, clean as you cook (yes, it’s possible!). If you’re heading out, do a fast sweep of the living room to pick up toys and clutter. It’s like magic—the house feels less chaotic, and you’ve actually accomplished something. You're basically a sorceress.
Create a “calm corner”: Set up a space in your home (even if it’s just a chair by the window) that’s dedicated to you. Put a cozy throw, a plant, some candles, and maybe a book or journal. Whenever you need a moment of quiet (even if it’s just while you sip your coffee and pray your kids don't start a MMA fight), this is your retreat. Bonus points if you can actually sit in it for five minutes without a small human jumping on your lap like they’re a circus acrobat.
Revamp your bedroom (even if it’s just the bed): Your bedroom doesn’t need to look like a luxury hotel, but please—make your bed every morning. This has been a huge pillar in itself for me. It’s like a tiny act of self-respect, and it instantly makes the room feel more put-together. Throw in a few cozy pillows or a nice blanket (because you deserve the extra fluff), and boom—you’ve got a calming, peaceful space that can actually help you relax when you need it.
Create visual peace with plants: A few well-placed plants can instantly make a room feel more alive and serene. I’m not saying you need a jungle in your living room (unless you’re into that), but maybe a few low-maintenance plants will do the trick. They’re like a mini escape to nature in your own home. Plus, the kids can water them—winning.
Embrace the power of “declutter, don’t destroy”: Look, I’m not suggesting you go full-on minimalist here (unless that’s your jam). But decluttering small areas of your home can have a huge impact. Start with your junk drawer (we all have one), the entryway, or the kids’ play area. When things are organized, you won’t feel like you’re swimming in a sea of chaos. Take a few minutes to toss things that don’t spark joy (or better yet, things that haven’t been used in a year). You’ll thank yourself later.
Set boundaries on “noise”: Let’s be real—moms don’t just have to contend with physical mess; there’s a whole lot of noise going on. Whether it’s your kids' endless chatter or the 5,000 things you need to do, try to create “quiet times” during the day. Maybe it’s a moment of silence in the car, or turning off the TV and putting on some calming background music while you get dinner ready. Sometimes, the best environmental care is just quieting down the noise, even if it’s only for 10 minutes.
Let in natural light: If possible, open those blinds! Let some sunshine in. Natural light is magic—it can uplift your mood and make your home feel brighter in both senses of the word. You don’t need to make your whole house a sunshine-filled oasis (though, okay, that would be nice), but opening up a few windows or letting in sunlight can work wonders.
Put your phone down (for at least a few minutes): This is a big one. Phones are like digital clutter. Set screen time limits for yourself (it’s not just for your kids tablets) by putting your phone in a drawer or simply putting it on DND and leaving it on the charger in your room. It’s amazing how much more peaceful you’ll feel when you’re not constantly bombarded with notifications or email pings. Your environment should be an escape, not another place where you’re always “on.”
In conclusion: Environmental self-care is about setting yourself up for success—whether that’s by creating a peaceful space, decluttering, or adding calming touches to your surroundings. You don’t need to be a domestic goddess (unless you want to be). But by making small adjustments to your home or work environment, you can create little pockets of calm that help you feel more centered and less like you’re drowning in your own space. So go ahead, make a corner for yourself, bring in some plants, and for the love of sanity, make your bed. Your environment can be a tool to help you thrive. After all, if your surroundings are supportive, so will you be.
Already mama’s let’s recap all 6 self-care pillars:
Physical Self-Care: Your body’s your ride-or-die. Sleep, eat, hydrate, and stretch—it’s all about treating your body like it’s the only one you’ve got. Keep it fueled and moving!
Emotional Self-Care: Feel your feelings—whether it's tears, laughs, or full-on rages over mismatched socks. Emotions are messy, but mama, you’ve got the right to own them.
Mental Self-Care: Your brain is a powerhouse—don’t let it burn out! Take quiet moments, ditch the guilt, and let your mind recharge. You deserve it!
Social Self-Care: Take time to connect with your people, even if it’s just a quick chat while hiding from your kids. Your friends and fam got your back.
Spiritual Self-Care: Reconnect with what gives you peace. Whether it’s prayer, meditation, or staring into the void (aka your backyard), find your center.
Environmental Self-Care: A calm space = a calm mind. Tidy up, let in the light, and create corners of peace. You deserve a space that feels like home.
