Self Care Ideas for Work From Home Moms

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

Being a work-from-home mom comes with unique challenges. You’re not just juggling work and family—you’re doing it all within the same four walls!

Finding time to do things for yourself can be tricky, but self-care is so important to your well-being. And the well-being of your family.

As a work-from-home mom, I don’t have much time to spend on myself, but I’ve come up with some ways to do things to fill my own bucket. Here are some of my top self care ideas to help you thrive as a busy, working mom.

Start Your Day with a Self Care Ritual

The demands of life with small children start as soon as your eyes open, but I like to work in a bit of a self-care ritual in our morning routine. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate—it’s something small you do just for yourself.

For me, it’s making sure that I style my hair. I used to be a hairstylist, and having my hair done makes me feel much better.

Simple Morning Ritual Ideas:

• Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in silence.
• Write in a gratitude journal.
• Do a five-minute meditation or breathing exercise.

Taking this time for self care at home ensures you start the day grounded and ready to tackle your responsibilities.

Create a Dedicated Self Care Space

This isn’t always feasible for everyone, but having a physical spot dedicated to self care at home can serve as a reminder to prioritize yourself.

This doesn’t have to be a separate room—a cozy chair in a corner or a small nook with soft lighting and your favorite books works perfectly.

Self Care Space Must-Haves:

• A comfortable spot to sit.
• Items that bring you joy, like a favorite blanket, book, or plant.

If you’re able to create a special self care space, you’ll have a go-to retreat to recharge whenever you need it.

Fit in Self Care Activities During Work Breaks

Working from home offers a unique opportunity to weave self care activities into your day. Use short breaks strategically to refresh and reset. Here are some ideas to try:

Quick Self Care Activities:

• Stretch for five minutes to release tension.
• Listen to a favorite song and dance around.
• Step outside for a few deep breaths of fresh air.

One thing I do for self care while working is to take time to do something crafty. If I have a podcast or some learning to do, I’ll often do that while doing something like knitting.

I also like to spend a bit of time with my husband. We don’t take a lot of time, but small pockets of time where we focus on each other helps us.

Exercise While Working

Exercise is a crucial part of self care women often overlook, especially busy moms.

For a long time, I was in survival mode after having our second baby. I used to play roller derby and worked out a lot. I missed feeling strong.

It took a bit of planning and creativity, but I’ve incorporated it into my day. I take 20 minutes to do a weight-lifting routine and then spend a good chunk of time on my walking pad.

Other Exercise Ideas for Working Moms:

• Use a standing desk and alternate between sitting and standing.
• Do desk-friendly exercises like seated leg lifts or shoulder rolls.
• Take a short walk during lunch or between meetings.

Making exercise a part of my workday has greatly impacted my life. I feel stronger and more capable and can play with my kids more. It’s been a massive win as a working mom.

Practice Mindfulness Throughout the Day

Mindfulness is a powerful self care ritual that can reduce stress and increase focus. Incorporating mindfulness doesn’t require a huge time commitment—you can practice it while doing everyday tasks.

Mindfulness Ideas:

• Focus on your breathing while waiting for an email to load.
• Pay attention to the flavors and textures during meals.
• Take a mindful minute before starting a new task to center yourself.

You’ll feel calmer and more in control by weaving mindfulness into your routine, even during busy days.

Set Boundaries to Protect Your Time

One of the most effective self care essentials is learning to set boundaries. As a working mom, it’s easy to feel pulled in multiple directions. Setting clear boundaries ensures you have time for both work and personal needs.

Boundary-Setting Tips:

• Create a time-blocking schedule that includes work, family, and self care activities.
• Communicate your availability to family and coworkers.
• Learn to say no to unnecessary commitments.

Protecting your time is a vital form of self care, allowing you to focus on what truly matters. For more tips on setting boundaries, check out this post.

Indulge in Small Pleasures

Sometimes, allowing yourself to indulge in small pleasures can make the biggest impact. Where possible, weave in small moments of joy.

Small Self Care Ideas:

• Treat yourself to a favorite snack or drink.
• Wear clothes that make you feel confident, even at home.
• Take five minutes to read or watch something that makes you laugh.

These small indulgences can help you get through your day.

Schedule Quality Time with Family

If you’re a work from home mom, you know balancing work and family life can be tricky. Incorporating family time into your day can be a form of self care, strengthening your connections and creating joyful memories.

It helps you feel like you’re giving enough time to your family, which can sometimes feel like it’s lacking for working moms.

Family-Friendly Self Care Activities:

• Plan a short family walk after work.
• Share a meal without devices.
• Play a quick game with your kids during a break.

Quality time with loved ones can recharge your emotional batteries and bring a sense of balance to your life.

Wind Down

At the end of a long day, it’s crucial to take time to wind down. A consistent evening self care ritual can help you transition from work mode to rest mode, ensuring better sleep and a more refreshed start the next day.

Evening Self Care Ideas:

• Take a warm bath with calming scents like lavender.
• Write in a journal to reflect on the day.
• Read a book or listen to soothing music.

My husband and I like to sit down, have a snack, chat without anyone interrupting us, and then watch a show together. We do this every single night.

Prioritizing relaxation at the end of the day is essential for any busy mom looking to recharge.

Self Care is Not Selfish

Many working mom tips focus on productivity, but taking care of yourself is just as important as meeting deadlines or caring for others.

By embracing some of these self care ideas, you’re setting a powerful example for your children and ensuring you have the energy and focus to be your best self at home and at work.