No matter which stage of motherhood you’re in, being a mom means being busy. Trust me, as a mom of two young girls, I know! But I also know that spending even just a few minutes on “me time” can significantly improve my mood, and it can do the same for you. 

Me time is time that you set aside to focus on yourself – mind, body, and spirit. That time is essential for a mom’s health and wellness, but with so many responsibilities, it can be a real challenge to actually find time to relax and do things that you love. That’s why, today, I’m sharing practical tips that can help you find more me time.

Me time for moms

How To Find More Me Time For Moms 

Adjust your sleep schedule.

You’ve probably heard the advice “sleep when baby sleeps.” That’s helpful advice when you have a needy newborn, but as your kids get older, it doesn’t work as well. 

Instead, consider adjusting your sleep schedule. If your child(ren) is sleeping through the night, consider either staying up past their bedtime and watching a movie or getting up before they wake in the morning to have a cup of joe and get some fresh air. 

Having that extra bit of quiet time to yourself can work wonders for your well being. Plus, you won’t experience that dreaded mom-guilt about focusing on yourself for a bit because everyone else is asleep!

Reach out to a loved one for help.

Whether it’s your partner, your mom, your best friend, or another family member consider reaching out to someone for help. Ask if they can take over baby duty, even if just for a short amount of time, to give you some time for yourself. 

Try to set up a schedule, whether it’s a little bit of time each day or an hour a month, where they can watch your kids so that you can do some self-care and get the mental reset you need. 

Create a mommy group.

Do you know another stay at home mom in your area? Are you friends with several moms who could also use some time for themselves? Reach out to them and see if they are interested in creating a mommy group. 

Then, with the moms in your group, you can coordinate playdates or outings as a group, as well as days when one mom can watch all the kids, to give the other moms a break. 

Taking turns watching the kids gives the moms in your group the me time they’re looking for. Plus, spending time with other moms who are going through the same thing can be uplifting and motivating, and remind you that you aren’t in this alone!

Consider baby-friendly alternatives.

Is there a gym in your area that offers childcare while you workout? Or maybe there’s a library program that can keep your child entertained while you spend some time on your own elsewhere in the library reading, meditating, or simply relaxing. Try using some of these alternatives to your advantage for some more time to yourself.

Encourage your kids to be more independent.

If your kids are a little older, work on teaching them independence as a way to get some more time to yourself. Maybe keep some healthy snacks within reach for when they get hungry. Or keep a few activities or fun things to do on hand that they can enjoy on their own.

As you teach your kids to be more independent, they will be less likely to rely on you for menial tasks. With fewer small tasks to take care of, you’ll have a surprising amount of extra time on your hands. (If you’re interested in learning more about fostering interdependence through activities and free play, check out my recent article on the benefits of free play in early childhood.) 

Me time ideas for moms

Me Time Ideas For Moms

Here are some great ways you can enjoy the “me time” you make for yourself:

  • Try these self-care ideas for moms like you. 
  • Soak for a while in a relaxing bubble bath.
  • Get lost in a good book.
  • Visit the salon for a hair or nail appointment.
  • Schedule your own nap time.
  • Enjoy a long yoga session.
  • Go for a walk, run, or bike ride.
  • Watch an episode or two of your favorite show.
  • Sip on a glass of wine.
  • Take yourself to the movies.
  • Do some crafts or a DIY project.
Finding me time as a busy mom
What’s your secret to finding “me time” as a busy mom? 

How do you manage to make time for yourself? When you do get some free time, what are some of your favorite things to do? I’d love to hear from you!

To read more tips and tricks for making the most of life as a busy wife and mom, head over to the blog.