tired mama self-care

Dear Beautiful, Exhausted Mama,

I know self-care may be the last thing on your mind.

As you’re reading this, you might be nursing a baby, breaking up a toddler tantrum, or trying to convince your preschooler that socks really do need to match (though, do they?). Your coffee is probably cold (for the third time today), and you’re likely running on far less sleep than you need. I see you, and this Mother’s Day message is especially for you.

Let’s talk about something that might feel almost impossible right now: self-care. Not the Instagram version with spa days and peaceful meditation sessions (though those are lovely), but the real, necessary kind that keeps you functioning as both a human and a mother.

Why Your Self-Care Matters:

  1. You Can’t Pour from an Empty Cup
    Remember those airplane safety demonstrations? There’s a reason they tell you to put on your own oxygen mask first. When you’re running on empty, everyone in your family feels it. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish – it’s necessary for your whole family’s wellbeing.
  2. You’re Teaching by Example
    Your little ones are watching. When you prioritize your health and happiness, you’re showing them that self-respect and self-care are important values. You’re raising future adults who will know it’s okay to take care of themselves too.
  3. You’re Still You
    Before you were “Mama,” you were you. That person still exists and deserves attention, even if your role as a mother is now central to your identity. Your interests, dreams, and needs matter.

Realistic Self-Care for Busy Moms:

  • Micro-Moments Matter: Find tiny pockets of peace. Enjoy your shower, savor that first morning coffee, or take three deep breaths while waiting in the school pickup line. Be purposeful about this. Acknowledge and be in the moment. Turn your brain off and just take a shower – don’t think/plan/worry. JUST TAKE AND ENJOY YOUR SHOWER.
  • Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no to playdates, extra commitments, or anything that depletes rather than fills your cup. Your time and energy are precious resources.
  • Ask for Help: Whether it’s from your partner, family, friends, or a babysitter – accepting help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of wisdom.
  • Simple Pleasures Count: Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Reading a chapter of your book during naptime, taking a walk with the stroller, or enjoying a favorite snack after bedtime all count.

Making It Happen:

  1. Start Small
    Don’t overwhelm yourself trying to create the perfect self-care routine. Begin with one small thing you can do consistently. Maybe it’s five minutes of stretching in the morning or using your favorite lotion after washing your hands.
  2. Schedule It
    Just like you schedule doctor’s appointments for your kids, put your self-care time on the calendar. Even if it’s just 15 minutes, make it non-negotiable.
  3. Build Your Village
    Connect with other moms, join a parenting group, or reach out to friends who understand. Sometimes self-care is simply knowing you’re not alone in this journey.

A Special Mother’s Day Message:

This Mother’s Day, I want you to know that you deserve care and attention just as much as your little ones do. Your worth isn’t measured by how much you sacrifice or how tired you are. You’re allowed to:

  • Take breaks
  • Ask for what you need
  • Rest without guilt
  • Say “not right now”
  • Prioritize your health
  • Feel all your feelings

Remember:
You’re not “just” a mom – you’re a whole person with needs, dreams, and desires. Taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury; it’s essential maintenance for the important work you do every day.

This Mother’s Day, give yourself permission to make self-care a priority. Start small, be consistent, and remember that by taking care of yourself, you’re taking care of your whole family. Stay tuned in the coming weeks as we talk about friendships – an important piece of self-care.

You’re doing an amazing job, mama. Happy Mother’s Day.

What’s one small way you can show yourself some care today? The journey to self-care starts with a single step. ❤️