Quick, effective self-care practices (like mindfulness exercises, stretches, or journaling prompts) tailored for busy moms who feel guilty prioritizing themselves.

Outline:

1. Introduction: The Myth of “I Don’t Have Time for Self-Care”

2. Activity 1: The 10-Minute Dance Party (Your Living Room Needs This)

3. Activity 2: Deep Breathing with a Side of “Don’t Call Me”

4. Activity 3: The Mug of Magic (A.K.A. Your Favorite Drink Ritual)

5. Activity 4: A Micro Journal Session (No, You Don’t Need to Be Shakespeare)

6. Activity 5: The Quick Glow-Up (Because Self-Care Can Be Skin Care)

7. Conclusion: Self-Care, 10 Minutes at a Time—Because You Deserve It

Introduction: The Myth of “I Don’t Have Time for Self-Care”

Let’s get real—when you hear the term “self-care,” you probably imagine luxurious spa days or bubble baths that last longer than your toddler’s naps. But for most of us, that’s not happening. Instead, we’re squeezing in “me-time” between diaper changes, work calls, and the fifth replay of Baby Shark.

Here’s the truth: self-care doesn’t have to be a grand production. It can be quick, simple, and guilt-free—because let’s face it, moms are always battling the guilt monster. And guess what? You deserve self-care. Not the someday version, but the today-in-10-minutes kind.

So, grab your phone, set a timer, and let’s dive into five self-care activities that fit into your already-packed day.

Activity 1: The 10-Minute Dance Party (Your Living Room Needs This)

You don’t need a Zumba instructor or a packed nightclub to shake off stress. Turn on your favorite playlist (the one that isn’t full of Cocomelon songs), and have yourself a mini dance party.

Dancing releases endorphins, which are basically happiness in hormone form. This movement is also FUN, and silly, and a great way to reset your nervous system and get the f*ck out of your head. Plus, it’s a sneaky workout that doesn’t feel like a chore. Got kids? Great! Invite them to join in. Watching a toddler attempt the Macarena is instant entertainment.

The best part? There’s no judgment in your living room. Bust out those middle-school dance moves, and let loose for 10 glorious minutes. By the end, you’ll be sweaty, smiling, and slightly less stressed.

Here is my absolute favorite list that my toddler also enjoys.

Activity 2: Deep Breathing with a Side of “Don’t Call Me”

Sometimes, self-care is as simple as breathing. Yes, breathing. But not the frantic “trying to calm down while your toddler screams about the wrong color cup” kind. I’m talking about intentional, deep breaths where you release the tension in your jar and brow.

Here’s how it works: find a quiet spot (or lock yourself in the bathroom, we’ve all been there), close your eyes, and inhale deeply for four counts. Hold it for four, then exhale for four. Repeat for 10 minutes or as long as you’ve got.

While you’re at it, silence your phone. This is your sacred moment to recalibrate, even if chaos reigns outside the bathroom door. Deep breathing lowers your cortisol levels and makes you feel like a functional human again. It’s like hitting the reset button for your brain—without the tech support.

If you’re interested in more practices, check out my post and practice guide: A Practical Self-Care Guide for Moms: Simple Ways to Reclaim Your Energy and Joy

Activity 3: The Mug of Magic (A.K.A. Your Favorite Drink Ritual)

There’s something magical about holding a warm mug of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa—especially when you actually get to drink it while it’s hot.

Make this 10-minute ritual non-negotiable. Pick your favorite mug (yes, the cute one that makes you feel like a Pinterest mom), and savor every sip. No multi-tasking, no reheating it six times, and absolutely no guilt.

If your little ones are around, give them a snack or a toy and let them entertain themselves for a bit. You’re not ignoring them; you’re teaching them the fine art of prioritizing joy. Cheers to that.

Activity 4: A Micro Journal Session (No, You Don’t Need to Be Shakespeare)

Journaling might sound like a big commitment, but it doesn’t have to be. Grab a notebook and spend 10 minutes jotting down whatever’s on your mind. It could be gratitude lists, funny things your kids said, or just a brain dump of all the things you’re too tired to remember.

Not sure where to start? Try this:

1. How do I feel right now?

2. What’s one thing that made me smile today?

3. What are three things I’m grateful for?

4. What’s one thing I’m looking forward to?

5. Or simple lists of all the manic to-do’s you’re trying to keep track of.

Journaling helps clear mental clutter and gives you a little perspective. Plus, it’s fun to look back and see how much you’ve grown—or laugh at the ridiculousness of your day.

Here are some of my essential journal prompts and some encouragement if you’re feeling ehh about it: Journaling Your Way Out: How to Use Writing to Get Unstuck, Overcome Overwhelm, and Reignite Creativity

Activity 5: The Quick Glow-Up (Because Self-Care Can Be Skin Care)

Let’s face it: moms rarely have time for a full-on beauty routine. But taking 10 minutes to pamper your skin can make you feel like you’ve got your life somewhat together.

Start with a refreshing face wash, followed by a quick face mask (these under-eye patches are my favorite) or serum. Bonus points if it smells like a spa. While the mask works its magic, do something you love—scroll TikTok, read a book, or just sit in blissful silence.

This mini glow-up isn’t about vanity; it’s about reminding yourself that you’re worthy of care. Because when you feel good in your skin, it shows in your energy—and your selfies.

Conclusion: Self-Care, 10 Minutes at a Time—Because You Deserve It

Mama, life is busy, messy, and full of moments that make you want to laugh and cry at the same time. But that doesn’t mean you have to put yourself on the back burner. These five guilt-free self-care activities are proof that you can take time for yourself without derailing your day.

So go ahead, dance it out, breathe deeply, sip your magic mug, journal your heart out, or pamper your skin. You deserve it—not because you earned it, but because you’re human. And if anyone asks why you’re glowing, tell them it’s because you finally drank your coffee hot.