Self-Care for Moms: 23 Ways to Relax and Recharge
Let’s face it, parents have a lot on their plates. From figuring out sleep schedules to carrying out bathing, feeding, cleaning and chauffeuring duties, caring for kiddos can be all-consuming. Add to that the everyday pressures of modern life, and you might be feeling depleted or burnt out (to say the least). That’s why self-care for moms and dads is more important than ever. Granted, it can be difficult to carve out “me time” if you don’t have easy access to childcare, but finding the space for your own needs will ultimately make you a happier, healthier parent (and overall person).
So what exactly is self-care? In short, it involves recognizing your own needs and doing things that take care of your mind, body and soul. Whether that means getting out for a walk, taking a hot shower, exercising, meditating or putting on a luxurious face mask—if it makes you feel good and revitalized, it counts as self-care.
Not sure how to add some regular rest and relaxation to your daily routine? Here, you’ll find awesome self-care ideas for moms and dads—plus, thoughtful gift inspiration to help you treat yourself (or the caregivers in your life!) to some extra TLC.
Super-soft pajamas
Whether you have a new baby at home or are a longtime parent, you can’t go wrong with these pajamas from Eberjey. Made from super-soft and stretchy fabric, the set will move with you as you’re completing household chores, lounging or snoozing. The classic style will make you feel put together while keeping you comfy. Plus, they come in a variety of cute (and aesthetically pleasing) colors, and they can even be monogrammed—what’s not to love?
Yoga mat
Yoga is a practice that combines gentle exercise with mindful breathing techniques. Practicing for even five minutes a day can boost core strength and help you reconnect to your body. That’s why a yoga mat is one of the best self-care gifts for new moms. This option by Lululemon is made from a cushioned, antimicrobial rubber material that’ll work just as hard as you do.
Sleep assistant
One of the biggest challenges of parenthood? The lack of sleep, of course. That’s why some of the best self-care ideas for moms and dads focus on helping them get an extra hour in bed. The Hatch Restore uses a smart light, white noise, meditations and a sunrise alarm to create a personalized sleep routine to help you fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed. Genius.
Essential oil burner
Create a relaxing environment at home with the help of this aesthetically pleasing oil burner. Simply add water and essential oils, then turn it on to fill your space with the scents you love.
Gratitude journal
A gratitude journal is another awesome entry point into self-care for moms. Jotting down your thoughts gives you time to check in with yourself and grapple with big feelings. This pick by Papier has space to set daily intentions, a day-to-day planner and a simple mood tracker, which can be helpful during the postpartum period. Plus, get a load of that cool cover!
Sleep mask
Need help getting some restful shuteye? Look no further than this innovative sleep mask. The lightly weighted fabric lays softly across your head and evenly distributes gentle pressure to alleviate stress as you nod off.
Versatile leggings
Whether your idea of self-care is exercising, lounging or something in between, these versatile leggings have got you covered. This wardrobe staple comes in a high-waisted style that will support you throughout the day, no matter what you have on your schedule. Best of all? These leggings are made from buttery-soft performance fabric and come in a selection of core and seasonal colors.
Silk pillowcase
Add some self-care to your sleep routine with a luxurious silk pillowcase. This top-rated pick by Brooklinen is made from 100 percent Mulberry silk that’s naturally cool to the touch. Plus, this pillowcase promises to protect the skin and hair from friction, so you can say goodbye to bedhead!
Face roller
The trend for facial rolling is here to stay—and with good reason. Using a jade roller daily soothes the nervous system, stimulates blood circulation and encourages lymphatic drainage. In addition to the health and beauty benefits, you’ll find that it feels pretty nice too!
Massage device
Melt away muscular tension with the Theragun Mini. The pocket-sized massager is super-powerful with three speed settings to choose from. Plus, it has a 150-minute battery life, meaning you can chuck this compact device into your diaper bag for rapid relief on the go.
Luxurious robe
Make your self-care routine (or your everyday tasks) a touch more luxurious with this beautiful silk robe. It comes in several soothing colors, features convenient pockets and has an interior tie to keep it in place whether you’re moving around or relaxing. Plus, the robe is machine-washable, making it perfect for busy parents!
Face oil
If your idea of self-care for moms revolves around skincare, check out the Calm Pure Radiance Oil by True Botanicals. The face oil was created with moms in mind and contains 27 plant actives that are anti-inflammatory, hydrating and naturally calming to skin. Pair this product with a jade roller for the ultimate self-care moment.
Foot spa
Unwind at the end of the day (or during baby’s naptime!) with the HoMedics foot spa. Heated bubbles gently massage feet, while an included exfoliating brush and pumice stone rejuvenate tired toes. It’s the perfect alternative to a professional pedicure.
Water bottle
Simple self-care ideas for moms and dads are often the best, as they’re easy to incorporate into your daily routine. This wide-mouth, stainless-steel water bottle from Hydro Flask is designed with double insulation to keep beverages icy cold and fresh, meaning you’re more likely to stay hydrated throughout the day. What’s more, it’s available in an array of cool colors and a 40-oz. capacity so you won’t have to refill as often.
Affirmation cards
Reciting a daily affirmation is a quick and easy self-care idea for moms with little or no time on their hands. These mom-focused affirmation cards come in a set of 15. Each features beautiful illustrations and simple, empowering messages to support you throughout the fourth trimester and beyond.
Meditation
Did you know that meditation is scientifically proven to reduce stress? So when it comes to exploring self-care for moms, a meditation app is a great place to start. Expectful is specifically designed for new and expectant parents, and offers guided meditation sessions between 10 and 20 minutes. And because the experts know that there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach, users have access to their own specially curated meditations. Sign us up!
Spa treatment
Self-care for moms and dads doesn't have to be fancy—but everyone deserves to be pampered from time to time. Treat yourself (or someone you love) to a spa treatment to soothe the aches and pains that often go hand-in-hand with parenting. Spafinder is partnered with thousands of salons and spas nationwide, so you (or a loved one) can easily book a mani-pedi or facial locally.
Soothing tea
Self-care for moms can be as simple as relaxing with a warm beverage. This flavorful tea by Pink Stork is a great choice for moms who love the taste of lavender. It’s naturally caffeine-free and is packed full of vitamins to alleviate tension headaches, everyday stress and fatigue.
Self-help book
In Breathe, Mama, Breathe, psychotherapist Shonda Moralis outlines the benefits of meditation and shows moms how to care for their well-being—in as little as five minutes. The book is filled with easy, practical steps to establish self-care for moms in daily life.
Scalp massager
Make the most of your shower with this marvelous scalp exfoliator and massager by Ceremonia. Suitable for all hair types, the clever tool helps to stimulate blood flow, detox the scalp and clear product buildup, all while giving you a rejuvenating massage.
Fitness app
Staying active is a great form of self-care for moms and dads. Why? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), daily exercise has been proven to improve sleep and reduce the risk of anxiety and depression. Of course, it can be hard to squeeze in a workout when you’ve got your hands full with a baby. But that’s where Aaptiv comes in. The fitness app has a program dedicated to maternal fitness with pre- and post-natal classes that are fast and efficient.
Zen garden
Need to find a moment of zen while working from home and juggling the kids? Look no further than this clever DIY kit from Etsy. Rake the sand, rearrange the miniature accessories and admire the beauty of nature.
Bath bombs
A steaming hot bath is the ultimate form of self-care for moms. So why not take bathtime to the next level with OUAI's scented, moisturizing Chill Pills Bath Bombs? Simply add them to warm water and soak up the skin-nourishing blend of hemp, jojoba and safflower seed oil.
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