Being a mum is basically the equivalent of juggling flaming swords while balancing on a tightrope—and maybe also holding a baby in one arm. Between managing the chaos of family life, keeping the house (somewhat) in order, and being everyone’s personal chef/driver/therapist, finding a little “me time” feels like the ultimate luxury. But let’s be real, we need it.
If we’re going to survive the daily madness, carving out even the tiniest sliver of time for ourselves isn’t just nice—it’s essential. So here are my favourite “me time” activities that keep me sane and grounded (or at least less likely to hide in the pantry).
1. Nightgown + A Good Book = Heaven
Listen, there’s nothing quite like getting into your comfiest nightgown and diving into a book after the kids are finally asleep. It’s like stepping into a secret world where no one is asking you to wipe their nose or find a missing toy.
Add a warm blanket, a steaming cup of tea (or wine, depending on the day), and you’ve got yourself the perfect wind-down. For me, it’s the easiest way to escape and recharge. Plus, if the book is good enough, I get the added bonus of being too engrossed to worry about that mountain of laundry.
2. The Magic of a Long, Hot Bath
You know those uninterrupted, peaceful baths that seem like a distant memory once you have kids? They’re still possible—if you plan carefully and guard that bathroom door like it’s Fort Knox. When I get the chance, I love turning my bathroom into a mini spa.
Light some candles, pour in the bath salts or drop in a bath bomb, and suddenly it’s like all the stress of the day just dissolves away. Add some calming essential oils, and it’s not just a bath—it’s therapy. Bonus tip: Lock the door (trust me, your three-year-old doesn’t need to burst in asking why water is wet).
3. Meditation: Because My Mind Needs a Timeout Too
We’ve all heard how great meditation is, but it can feel impossible to find even a few minutes to just breathe. But once I started squeezing in short, 10-minute meditation sessions, I realized how much it helped me reset.
You don’t need a whole serene Zen garden (though that would be nice); just find a quiet corner and focus on your breathing. Some days, it’s my only chance to hear my own thoughts instead of the endless chorus of “Muuuuummm!” running through the house.
4. Netflix and Chill (Literally)
Some days, my brain is just too fried to do anything but zone out in front of the TV. No shame here—sometimes all I need is my favourite show and a soft blanket. Whether it’s binge-watching a series or indulging in a guilty pleasure (hello, reality TV), this is the ultimate low-effort way to unwind.
It’s like hitting the reset button after a long day of chaos. And yes, the cozy pajamas make another appearance here because let’s face it, when do they not?
5. Journaling: Clearing the Mental Clutter
There’s something incredibly therapeutic about writing down your thoughts at the end of the day. It’s like emptying out the mental junk drawer so you can finally think straight again. For me, journaling helps make sense of the day’s craziness and gives me space to process whatever emotions were stuffed down between making dinner and bedtime battles.
Even if it’s just a quick brain dump, it feels so good to get everything out on paper. Plus, it’s the perfect reminder that taking care of my mental health is just as important as everything else on my to-do list.
6. Solo Walks: A Breath of Fresh Air (Literally)
When I can actually escape the house (without tiny humans trailing behind), I love going for a solo walk. There’s something about being outside in the fresh air that instantly lifts my mood.
Whether it’s a brisk walk around the block or a longer stroll through the park, it’s my chance to get moving and clear my head. Sometimes I listen to music or a podcast, but other times I just let the quiet surround me. It’s like pressing pause on the world for a little while.
7. Crafting and DIY: My Creative Outlet
If I manage to carve out a little extra time (and the stars align), I love getting creative with a craft or DIY project. Whether it’s knitting, scrapbooking, or attempting to tackle a Pinterest-inspired home project, having a creative outlet is a fun way to break free from the daily grind.
It’s like a mini escape where I can focus on something that’s just for me—and it’s also a sneaky way to trick myself into feeling productive, even when I’m really just having fun.
8. A Quiet Cup of Tea (And Only Tea)
Sometimes, the simplest things bring the most comfort. For me, there’s nothing like sitting down with a hot cup of tea after the kids are finally in bed and the house has fallen quiet.
No interruptions, no demands—just me, my favourite chair, and my favourite tea. It’s a moment of peace that lets me unwind before bed and reminds me that even in the busiest days, I can find a little stillness.
Conclusion: It’s Okay to Put Yourself First (Sometimes)
Finding time for yourself as a busy mum can feel like a pipe dream, but it’s so important to make it happen. Whether it’s five minutes of quiet or a luxurious bath, those moments of “me time” can help you recharge and tackle the daily chaos with a bit more patience and balance. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.
