23 Quick Ways to Relax as a Mom
It was one of those days. The kids had been bickering all morning, the house looked like a toy store explosion, and I hadn’t had a moment to myself since I woke up.
As I was folding the third load of laundry, I felt that familiar surge of frustration creeping in.
My patience was thin, and I knew I needed a break before I reached my limit. But with two kids under five, where was I supposed to find the time?
Sound familiar?
Motherhood is rewarding, but it’s also demanding in ways we can’t always predict. Some days, finding even five minutes to relax feels like an impossible task.
But the truth is, taking time for ourselves is essential for our mental health. We can’t pour from an empty cup!
Here are 23 quick ways to relax as a mom—even when you feel like there’s no time at all.
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1. Take a 5-Minute Breathing Break
Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and take deep breaths for just five minutes. It’s amazing how much calmer you’ll feel when you focus on your breathing.
A calming essential oil diffuser can enhance the experience, filling the air with soothing lavender or eucalyptus.
2. Stretch It Out
Doing simple stretches can help relieve tension from your neck and back, especially if you’ve been hunched over cleaning or playing with the kids all day.
This simple yoga mat can make your quick stretching session more comfortable.
3. Drink a Warm Cup of Tea
Taking a few moments to brew yourself a cup of herbal tea can feel like a mini escape. Try this organic chamomile tea for a calming effect.
4. Listen to Your Favorite Song
Music can instantly lift your mood. Play one of your favorite songs—something that makes you feel happy and energized—and take a few moments to just enjoy the rhythm.
5. Use a Stress Relief Ball
Sometimes, all you need is to channel your frustration into something physical. Keep a stress relief ball handy and squeeze away when things get tense.
6. Step Outside for Fresh Air
Even if it’s just for a minute, stepping outside can do wonders. Let the fresh air and change of scenery reset your mind.
7. Light a Candle
There’s something instantly relaxing about lighting a candle and watching the soft flame flicker. Opt for a calming scent like vanilla or lavender.
This set of soy candles is perfect for quick relaxation sessions.
8. Use a Massage Tool
A quick self-massage can help release tight muscles.
Use a handheld massager for a two-minute shoulder or neck massage while you sit on the couch or at your desk.
9. Do a Mini-Meditation
Meditation doesn’t have to be long to be effective. Close your eyes and focus on a calming word or image for just three minutes. Apps like Calm or Headspace make this easy to do.
10. Take a Power Nap
If you have the chance, sneak in a 10-15 minute power nap. Even a short rest can leave you feeling rejuvenated.
11. Give Yourself a Hand Massage
A quick hand massage with some soothing hand cream can feel surprisingly luxurious, especially after a busy day of cleaning, cooking, and mom duties.
12. Read for 5 Minutes
If you have a favorite book, dive into it for just five minutes. Reading a few pages can transport you to another world and give you a quick mental break.
13. Use a Heat Wrap
A heat wrap around your neck or shoulders can melt away stress after a long day. Try a microwaveable heating pad for quick relief.
14. Take a Warm Shower
Even a 10-minute shower can be the reset button you need. Let the warm water wash away your stress, and use a luxurious body wash to make the experience even more relaxing.
15. Doodle or Color
Adult coloring books are a fun and creative way to relax. Keep one handy for those moments when you need to zone out for a bit.
This beautiful mandala coloring book is a favorite of mine for unwinding.
16. Call a Friend
Sometimes, all you need is a quick chat with a friend who understands. Whether it’s a vent session or a few shared laughs, that connection can be incredibly relaxing.
17. Sit Down with a Magazine
Flip through a fun, light-hearted magazine. It’s a simple way to relax your mind without much effort.
18. Use an Acupressure Mat
Lying on an acupressure mat for just five minutes can help relieve tension in your muscles, and it’s something you can do while the kids nap.
19. Give Yourself a Foot Soak
Fill a basin with warm water, add some Epsom salts, and give your feet a quick soak while you read or watch TV.
This foot soak kit is perfect for a spa-like experience at home.
20. Declutter One Small Space
It may sound counterintuitive, but decluttering can be relaxing. Choose one small space, like a drawer or shelf, and tidy it up. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment, and the decluttered area will bring you peace.
21. Write in a Journal
Sometimes, just writing down your thoughts can help clear your mind. Keep a beautifully bound journal on hand for these quick mental breaks.
22. Do a Quick Guided Meditation
If you don’t have time to meditate on your own, let someone guide you.
There are plenty of apps that offer short, guided meditations that can fit into even the busiest mom’s schedule.
23. Take a Moment for Gratitude
When things get overwhelming, take a moment to think about three things you’re grateful for. This simple shift in perspective can help calm your mind and remind you of the positive things in your life.
Bottom Line
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of motherhood and forget to take care of ourselves.
But with these 23 quick and simple relaxation strategies, you can squeeze in moments of calm, even on the busiest of days.
Remember, it doesn’t take much to reset your mind and body—just a few minutes is all you need! So go ahead, give yourself permission to take that break. You deserve it.
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