You’re probably looking for self care ideas for moms because you’re stressed to the max AND keep hearing about various moms indulging in “self-care” AND don’t feel like you know how to fit it into your already busy schedule.
Don’t worry girl, I’ve been there myself and have your back.
I’ve Googled guilt-free self care ideas for moms and the typical go out and do this and that didn’t work for me.
I have four children ranging from ages 1 – 13 so my daily schedule is always packed between chores, parenting, being the “fun mom“, loving partner, and furmom things can get stressful.
The self care ideas for moms that I’m sharing today, I constantly use each month to make sure I make time for myself so I can excel at all of my daily roles.
Here are 50 self care ideas for moms that will leave you feeling guilt free.
- #1 Have a Spa Day or Night at Home
- #2 Play Video Games
- #3 Go to The Nail Salon
- #4 Purchase Something For You
- #5 Workout
- #6 Get a New Outfit
- #7 Take a Nap
- #8 Watch TV or a Movie
- #9 Do Nothing For a Day
- #10 Have Your Groceries Delivered
- #11 Have a Cocktail
- #12 Go on a Date
- #13 Get Your Hair Done
- #14 Eat Without Feeling Guilty
- #15 Unplug From Technology
- #16 Get a Massage
- #17 See a Chiropractor
- #18 Color
- #19 Work on Your Passion Project
- #20 Spend Time Alone
- #21 Write
- #22 Do Yoga
- #23 Take a Group Fitness Class
- #24 Take a Long Shower
- #25 Read a Book
- #26 Go Out in Nature
- #27 Listen to Music
- #28 Listen to a Podcast
- #29 Say Yes to Going Out With Another Adult
- #30 Take a Day Off From Working (AND Don’t Feel Guilty About It)
- #31 Spend Time Browsing Your Favorite Website or Blog
- #32 Enjoy a Cup of Tea
- #33 Say “No” (AND Don’t Feel Guilty About It)
- #34 Stretch
- #35 Do a DIY Project
- #36 Take a Bubble Bath
- #37 Purchase That Item You’ve Been Feeling Guilty About Buying
- #38 Make a New Dish
- #39 Reflect on Your Accomplishments
- #40 Wear an Outfit You’ve Been Saving For a Special Occasion
- #41 Take Time to Breathe
- #42 Procrastinate on Social Media
- #43 Go Somewhere You’ve Never Been in Your City
- #44 Catchup With a Friend or Relative via Phone
- #45 Complain
- #46 Sit Silently in the Dark
- #47 Book a Hotel or Airbnb For Just Yourself
- #48 Create a Wishlist
- #49 Detox Your Yoni
- #50 Try Out Some New Products
#1 Have a Spa Day or Night at Home
Going to the spa can be expensive.
However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t pamper yourself at home. By making a small investment you can get all of the items you need to plan a relaxing spa day (or night) at home.
For example, some good skincare items to consider adding to your spa night include the Brandefy Skin Superfood Cleanser and the Glow Skin Beta Clarity AHA Clarifying Peel.
This is something that you can do with a few girlfriends or you can enjoy it alone.
Read Also: How to Plan a Relaxing Spa Day at Home
#2 Play Video Games
Video games are one of my personal favorite self care ideas for moms.
Before I used to be more of a Need For Speed type of girl, but now I’ve upgraded to virtual reality.
If you haven’t gotten a Quest 2 yet, you definitely should. There’s so much to do in the virtual world from working out to experiencing travel.
Or if you need something more relaxing, then you should try Online Solitaire. Playing this game helps relieve a lot of daily stress and keeps the mind sharp.
#3 Go to The Nail Salon
Getting a manicure or pedicure is a great way to get an hour or so to yourself and feel pretty.
I look forward to my nail salon visits…it’s just something about fresh polish and an eyebrow wax that instantly improves my mood.
Even if you’re not into fake nails (like me) you can do a gel manicure and pedicure once a month to pamper yourself AND it’ll last for at least 2 weeks so you don’t have to feel guilty about spending the money.
#4 Purchase Something For You
Shopping can be very therapeutic, especially when shopping for yourself.
However, as moms, it’s common for us to feel guilty about purchasing things for ourselves without getting the kids anything.
If shopping is the thing that you like to do for self-care I’m here to tell you it’s okay.
Whether it’s getting a new pair of leggings a few times a month (like me), splurging on a Curlsmith Defrizzion Dryer and XXL Diffuser, or even getting some Love CBD Intimacy Spray to unleash your inner sex goddess GO FOR IT.
Sometimes purchasing something for yourself is all you need to turn a bad week around and put you in a better mood.
#5 Workout
Working out can become somewhat of an addiction once you get into a consistent routine.
However, getting started with a fitness routine is the hard part. It’s easy to find excuses not to do it or do other things to avoid it.
If working out more has been a goal of yours, make it part of your self-care. You’ll feel great after working out AND you’ll reap multiple health benefits.
The best part is you don’t have to go to the gym or spend a lot of money creating a home gym so you’re able to work out at home.
Read Also: How to Start Working Out at Home
#6 Get a New Outfit
If you’re like me, your kid’s closets are running over and you have clothing items in yours that you’ve had for years.
While there’s nothing wrong with this (of course) purchasing a new outfit can improve your mood even if you don’t know where you’ll wear it yet.
#7 Take a Nap
Taking a nap may seem so basic, but once you become a parent and you’re running off of limited sleep each day being able to sleep uninterrupted during the day sounds like a distant dream.
In my opinion, taking a nap is the ultimate form of self-care (or gift that anyone can give me for that matter lol).
Did you know that you can even incorporate self-care into your bedtime routine?
#8 Watch TV or a Movie
Have you fallen behind on your favorite shows or is there a movie that you’ve been wanting to see, but can’t seem to find the time for?
When you take time out for yourself, spend a few hours watching TV or a movie.
Need some recommendations? I like to binge the 90-Day Series, Carl Weber’s Shows and Smothered/ I Love a Mama’s Boy.
#9 Do Nothing For a Day
Who says self care ideas for moms have to be limited to a few hours?
Make a whole day out of doing nothing. Don’t feel bad about using sick days at work or vacation time just to have a day for yourself.
These days we tend to have the mentality that we have to be workaholics all of the time when the generations before us fought so we could have vacation time and sick days…use them.
#10 Have Your Groceries Delivered
Do you hate going to the grocery store?
Thanks to advancements in the grocery industry, now you don’t have to.
Simply order your groceries online, find a coupon code for free delivery, and wait for your groceries to arrive.
Plus, with all of the time you’re saving from not commuting to the grocery store and standing in the checkout line, you can spend time doing something else that you enjoy.
Never ordered groceries online before?
I suggest that you try Walmart Grocery Delivery.
I’ve been using their services for a few years now and can’t recommend them enough.
#11 Have a Cocktail
Self-care can be as simple as having a cocktail (or glass of wine).
The next time you feel like you need to unwind, try making a new cocktail recipe at home. Pinterest has a ton of ideas to help you get your creativity going.
#12 Go on a Date
Working, parenting, and doing chores day in and day out can put a strain on your relationship.
Try to fit in one date night per month with your partner, or if you’re single, one date night per month with yourself.
I know being a parent makes going on dates a little tricky. So, instead of a date night, you can have a day date, which can take place while the kids are in school so you can avoid having to pay money to a sitter.
See Also: Date Ideas In Virginia Beach
#13 Get Your Hair Done
There’s nothing wrong with doing your own hair. However, it’s great when you’re able to have someone else do it so you don’t have to worry about fussing with it.
For me, since I’ve been on my natural hair journey for a while, it’s great to even just have someone else do a hot oil treatment and flat iron on occasion.
#14 Eat Without Feeling Guilty
If you’re on a weight loss journey it can feel like you have to deny yourself certain foods (I’ve been there).
You don’t though. It’s okay to enjoy some of your favorite foods on occasion without feeling guilty.
For me, my personal favorite guilty-free self-care meal is Pho.
#15 Unplug From Technology
One of the best gifts anyone can give themselves is unplugging from technology.
However, as someone who works full-time online, I understand what a challenge this can be.
Even if you just unplug on Sundays or each night once the workday is over, you’ll be able to reap positive benefits.
See Also: How Google Helped Me Get My Family’s Digital Wellbeing in Check
#16 Get a Massage
Massages are one of the ultimate forms of relaxation and they come with health benefits too.
You can go to a massage parlor or if money’s tight you can go to a massage school and be a test subject for students taking their clinical OR you can have your partner give you a massage.
#17 See a Chiropractor
Chiropractors provide so many benefits outside of alignment.
I started seeing a chiropractor a few years ago, for lower back pain, and I was surprised at all of the health benefits…especially that it is also a natural way to manage migraines.
This is a visit that I always look forward to as I leave out feeling like a new person.
#18 Color
Coloring isn’t just for kids.
With so many adult coloring book options available, there is one that is a match for you.
Coloring is therapeutic, it’s a great way to unload your mind, and it allows you to express your creative side.
#19 Work on Your Passion Project
Do you like to sew, write, build, etc?
Set a schedule for spending time working on your passion project.
When you’re doing something that you love, the time will pass by, you won’t be stressed, and who knows you may even be able to generate some income from it.
#20 Spend Time Alone
If you have young kids, there’s a good chance your house is never quiet.
One of the best self-care ideas for moms is to spend some time sitting alone in a dark room in absolute silence.
#21 Write
Whether it’s journaling, making a goal list, or a bucket list…do some writing.
Writing is another therapeutic way to relax.
When you’re writing about something that you’re interested in the time just flies by and it’s amazing to see how you’re able to string along different words to make a masterpiece.
If you need a journal recommendation, I highly recommend The Glow Up Journal.
#22 Do Yoga
Yoga isn’t the easiest thing to do.
However, it’s a great form of self-care.
It comes with some great health benefits, helps you clear your mind, and helps with balance and posture.
Plus, there are so many free online videos that can help you get started from home so you don’t have to spend money paying for a yoga class if you don’t want to.
#23 Take a Group Fitness Class
Group fitness classes are about more than working out.
As a mom, you may not get much adult interaction (I’m talking to you fellow SAHMs and WAHMs), and group fitness classes are a great way to interact with other adults.
If you’re not sure about what fitness class you would enjoy, try out a few different ones. Usually, they offer a few classes for free or you can find affordable trial packages on Groupon.
See Also: Tips For Group Workout Anxiety
#24 Take a Long Shower
Having a long shower is very rare once you enter parenthood.
You’ll hear Phantom crying and calling out for Mom if you attempt to shower while the kids are awake.
So, whenever you have the chance to take a long, hot shower enjoy it.
It’s a great way to reset your mind.
#25 Read a Book
While we’re always encouraging our kids to read as much as possible; when was the last time you had a chance to put your nose into a good book?
Reading is another great form of self-care for moms as it allows our minds to travel to different places and escape our current reality even if just for a half-hour. You can read anything from non-fiction to romance books and enjoy some time for yourself.
#26 Go Out in Nature
Getting out for some fresh air can always do you some good.
Head out to your local walking or hiking trail and spend a few hours taking in the scenery and smelling the fresh air.
#27 Listen to Music
We all know that music is good for the soul.
Listen to your favorite genre for 30 minutes or so and let the music run through your veins.
Also, feel free to dance like no one’s watching if the mood strikes.
#28 Listen to a Podcast
There are podcasts about everything these days.
If you don’t have time to do much reading, see if there’s a podcast available.
You can even listen to a podcast while you’re doing other things such as taking that nature walk or even while you’re getting a massage.
#29 Say Yes to Going Out With Another Adult
Feel guilty when you want to go hang out with a friend and leave the kids with the other parent?
Don’t.
Challenge yourself to say yes the next time you’re invited out for cocktails, lunch, or whatever.
#30 Take a Day Off From Working (AND Don’t Feel Guilty About It)
Use those vacation and sick days.
Feeling overwhelmed or just not in the mood to work?
Take the day off.
It’s just one day.
I’m not saying make a habit and get into a routine of taking off weekly (or even monthly for that matter), but every once in a while it’s okay to take a day off from working for absolutely no reason at all AND not feel guilty about it the entire day.
#31 Spend Time Browsing Your Favorite Website or Blog
Like reading gossip blogs or mindlessly browsing on social media?
Have at it.
It’s a great self care idea for moms. My guilty self-care pleasure is browsing Reddit.
Reddit can be such a huge time suck, but at the same time, I enjoy doing it and have gotten a lot of knowledge from there as well.
#32 Enjoy a Cup of Tea
Start your day with a cup of tea before the kids are up.
I read somewhere that one mom starts off her mornings with a very tranquil routine that involves her having tea in the dark or with candles lit.
I’m not sure which blog it was on, unfortunately, but, that’s a self-care idea I can definitely get behind.
#33 Say “No” (AND Don’t Feel Guilty About It)
Moms are notorious for saying yes or trying to be able to commit to everything, especially when it comes to our kids…myself included.
However, I’m here to tell you, that you don’t need to chaperone every field trip, they don’t need to go to every extracurricular activity that the school has for families, AND it’s okay.
Your kids get to do more than enough and you don’t have to run yourself too empty by being “Yes Mom” all of the time. Even if instead of going to the event or activity you just sit at home and drink tea
…..
It’s okay.
#34 Stretch
Stretching can give you a new breath of fresh air.
It doesn’t have to be anything major.
You can just loosen up by spending 5 minutes between activities and stretching things out.
#35 Do a DIY Project
Does creating things from scratch sound more up your alley?
Go ahead and head to your local craft or home improvement store and start that DIY project that you’ve had on your mind for months.
For inspiration, you can check out DIY Home on a Budget.
Read Also: How to Update Your Existing Deck on a Budget
#36 Take a Bubble Bath
Bubble baths are a great way to relax.
While in the bath relaxing you can also combine other things such as listening to a podcast, catching up on your favorite tv shows, or even reading a book.
Plus, it gives you an excuse to try out some new bath products such as the No Scrubs EX-foliator Sugar Scrub or Let That Mango Body Butter.
#37 Purchase That Item You’ve Been Feeling Guilty About Buying
If you’ve been thinking about purchasing something for a month or more, you should go for it.
It’s no longer considered an impulse purchase as you’ve had more than enough time to think about it.
The only thing holding you back is guilt at this point.
For me, it has been upgrading my phone. I currently have the iPhone 11, however, after thinking about upgrading when the next model comes out, I’ve made the decision that I’m getting the new iPhone.
#38 Make a New Dish
If you like to cook, making a new dish could be the self-care treatment that you need.
You can try combining random ingredients together and hope for the best OR you can give a Pinterest recipe a try to see if it turns out photo perfect.
#39 Reflect on Your Accomplishments
Feeling down?
Lift yourself back up by reflecting on your accomplishments so far.
You’ve likely achieved more things than you could have imagined you would when you were in your early twenties.
#40 Wear an Outfit You’ve Been Saving For a Special Occasion
Did you purchase a new outfit recently?
Put it on even if you’re not going anywhere.
Getting dolled up can boost your confidence and make you feel good about yourself.
#41 Take Time to Breathe
Spend a minute or so focusing on your breath.
It’s a great way to clear your thoughts and reset your current feelings.
#42 Procrastinate on Social Media
Do you avoid social media the majority of the time?
When you’re trying to sneak in some self-care use your time to get a social media fix in.
#43 Go Somewhere You’ve Never Been in Your City
Spend some time exploring your city.
Look on Yelp or Groupon and see what activities and events are available that interest you that you’ve never been to before.
If you live in a major city, you may be surprised by how many festivals and things take place each weekend.
#44 Catchup With a Friend or Relative via Phone
When was the last time you talked about randomness on the phone for an hour or so?
When you find yourself with some free time and a quiet house, spend some time catching up with a friend or relative on the phone.
#45 Complain
As women, in general, we often feel like we have to keep everything inside to remain strong.
I’m here to tell you this isn’t the case…it’s okay to complain.
Even if it’s just you writing or typing a letter and tearing it up afterward, go for it.
You’ll feel so much better once you have it off of your chest too!
#46 Sit Silently in the Dark
Each night before bed or each morning upon waking up, take some time to sit silently in the dark and get your thoughts together.
Having this time is a great way to both start and end your day.
#47 Book a Hotel or Airbnb For Just Yourself
Sometimes we need to be totally alone and have time to ourselves to rejuvenate AND booking a hotel or Airbnb for just yourself is a perfect way to accomplish rebooting ourselves.
Don’t worry about chores, cooking, or anything for one night.
Spend your time sleeping, working on your passion project, or whatever it is that you want to do.
#48 Create a Wishlist
When was the last time you created a wishlist of things that you wanted to purchase or places that you want to visit?
Find the motivation you need to keep pushing forward by readjusting what you’re working towards.
#49 Detox Your Yoni
If you watch reality tv shows you’re probably already familiar with ‘Yoni Steams’.
Yoni Steams are one part of detoxing your yoni, but there are other products out there too, such as Yoni pearls, Yoni washes, and even Yoni oil.
I tried a yoni steam for the first time after having Ellie and it is definitely one of my recommended self care ideas for moms and it doesn’t require you to go to a spa either to have it done.
#50 Try Out Some New Products
Are you guilty of purchasing a new product to try out, but never have the time?
I am guilty, for sure.
Sometimes I just hold on to their item for a few months and then if it still remains unopened I donate it.
These days one of the things I’m incorporating into my self-care routine is when I am taking a moment for myself I’ll try out a new product that I’ve been meaning to try.
My most recent self-care product testing experience has been with The Patch Brand.
In case, you’re unfamiliar with them they offer vitamin-infused patches that have ingredients that fit effortlessly into mom’s fast-paced lifestyle. They are better than pills and gummies because they allow vitamins to be constantly released into your body instead of partially being absorbed. Their patches target sleep, focus, stress, energy, and immunity.
Now, I know you’re probably thinking, V you could have tried this out at any time. However, when trying new products I like to read all of the instructions and do a deep dive on the web so I know exactly what to expect beforehand. So, when trying out a new product I like to spend time on that, and then if the first test goes great I’m able to then incorporate it into my lifestyle.
Conclusion: There Are Numerous Self Care Ideas For Moms
As moms, it’s important that we make time for ourselves. By spending time on self-care as often as we can, we’re guaranteed to keep our mental health intact so we can be the best parents (and others) possible.
As you can see there are numerous self care ideas for moms. Need even more self care ideas? Check out this list of 100 Fall Self Care Ideas or learn how to plan a self-care weekend.
What’s your favorite way to practice self-care as a mom?

this sounds like exactly how i need to be spending the rest of my week!
I love these ideas. I’m hoping I can go to the pool next week when my son is home.
You’ve got some great ideas here. The nap is my favorite. I don’t get enough of those.
I would love a day off. That would do me some good. Even a day trip to the beach. but I do love all these gift ideas along with self-care ideas to go along with it. thanks for sharing this
What a wonderful list, we as moms tend to always put everyone first and so we forget to enjoy at times— we should also prioritize us when need be. Thank you for reaffirming that.
I want to express my gratitude for the wonderful list of guilt-free self-care ideas for moms. It’s refreshing to see such a diverse range of suggestions that cater to different preferences and schedules. This article is a great resource for moms looking to prioritize their well-being.
You’ve included a wide range of great suggestions there. A spa day at home is perfect as my kids enjoy joining in – kid friendly products of course.
I am loving all of these ideas and such a great list here! Some are so simple but yet so powerful and I love it. Thank you for sharing 😉
It’s a lot of suggestions for self care but sometimes it’s hard for self care to feel guilt free for me.
I love that grocery delivery made the list! I can’t tell you how much this eases my stress. I love that this exists.
Incorporating yoga into your everyday or even weekly will considerably improve your mental and physical health. Even if it’s just 5-10mins a day.
Your list of suggestions offers a wide range of activities that promote well-being, relaxation, and rejuvenation. It’s refreshing to see a post that encourages self-care for all moms. Thank you for sharing these valuable ideas!
I’m loving all of these great ideas. These are going to be so helpful even for myself.
This is quite the list! I try to exercise, but definitely need to get better at it and I have video games that need to be played, so I probably just get a start on that!
Enjoying a cup of tea is my most favorite. It relaxes me and gives me energy
I am loving all of these ideas! Love these for self care and using new clothes is my go to… and a good salon day!
Such a great list. Self-care is very important. I make sure to have my ME time.
I need to pin this list. Every mom needs this once in a while!
I read this post often to remember to take time for me and do something for myself inspired from this list!
I love all of these ideas. Number 7 is my favorite. I do tend to sleep more than others but I deal with chronic pain/autoimmune disorders.
These are all great self care ideas, I’d have to say that my all time favorite will always be to take a bubble bath!
I’m all about the spa day, the yoga, and the bubble bath. Bring it on!
I love playing video games! This is a great list of self-care ideas.
I love all these ideas. I think it’s so important for everyone to take some self care. I need to do this more often myself.
I’m loving the options you’ve shared here. Never thought to throw in video games to the list, but it definitely helps with stress..
I love going out in nature. It’s the perfect self care remedy for me. I also did some colouring for the first time…it was very relaxing!
This is a good list of ideas. My self-care is exercise and cookies.
I would never be able to have a day where I could do nothing. Even though it would be really nice.
I absolutely love this list! I recently booked an appointment with a chiropractor and told my husband this is a self-care must! He thought self-care meant just facials and getting my nails done with friends. But I agree that little things like taking a nap, taking care of your health, and everything you listed is definitely included! Pinning this for later too!
We woman deserves a ME time once in a while. Our role in the house is a hardwork I say go pamper yourself, buy clothes that will make you pretty or take a long nap we all deserve it.
I love these ideas. I need to take some more time out for myself.
Self care is important for everyone. These are all great ideas and it will surely make me feel good inside. I dream of a day when I can just do nothing at all, just laze my day away in bed, binge watch my TV series and stuff myself with popcorn and potato chips! Haha. When I need to relax, I go out and tend to my potted plants. Gardening is very relaxing.
This is amazing. I’ll definitely be putting some of these ideas to use. Especially , take a day and do nothing, I feel like I be running nonstop, and never have time for myself. Thanks for sharing.
I love this list so much! It’s important as parents to remember to take time for yourself . You can’t drive a car without filling up the tank – same for parenting!
Every mother’s should definitely make this ideas come true in their daily routine. It will absolutely help them to cope up on their busy days at home and taking care of the kids.
These are magnificent ideas to try. Honestly, many moms lacks time and interested doing these, as you can imagine how hectic they are. Every mom deserves to relax timely.
These Self Care Ideas For Moms are really awesome ! I will be needing this list right now. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
I just spend my 10-minute walk from my coffee break awhile ago and went out in the part and head back. I considered that as my self-care.
These are some excellent self-care ideas for moms! They are something we can all squeeze in during our busy day to recoup from all the chaos.
I feel like going to the nail salon is at the top of my list. Best time for me to go is when the baby in daycare or when hubby is watching her! Great list.
So in all honesty, I feel like I want to do half of the things on this list! However, video games is one of those things that I never really would have considered to be relaxing. I however have learned that I am obsessed with battleship. Go figure!
My favorite SELF CARE things to do = massage and pedicure/manicure!! 🙂 Shoot, I even love to just go to the grocery store by myself, LOL!
When my son was younger I would feel guilty about self-care. As my son has gotten older. I’ve learned the importance of it.
Great ideas for some real me time. I would love a meal without guilt just once. A day off from my seven day a week job would also be new.
It’s so important to take care of yourself. It’s like the plane safety instructions: put on your mask so that you can then help others!
I always feel guilty about self-care, and I know that’s ridiculous! I’m going to do some of these this week. Mainly read a book and play a video game (Sims). Thanks for the tips and reminding me that not only is it ok to take care of myself; it’s essential!
This was helpful! I think I am going to have my groceries delivered tonight.
What fabulous ideas. I usually read for Self Care. It helps calm me. I also find eating chocolate helps 😉
This is a great reminder for moms to take good care of themselves. I always need a reminder because I often put myself last, this is a must for me now! Thanks!
I definitely need to try these out. A day off would definitely be a good one for me after a long work trip.