Ask any mom how she’s doing, and chances are you’ll hear the same word: Busy. It’s the universal response. We’re juggling school drop-offs, work, dinner, and the million other things that fill our days (and minds). No wonder so many of us feel like we’ve forgotten how to relax.
But, Mom, just because motherhood is a 24/7 job doesn’t mean you can’t take a break. The key is knowing what kind of rest actually refuels you. Breaks for moms are not one-size-fits-all, and rest doesn’t have to look a certain way to count. What matters is that it leaves you feeling restored. Here are 9 real-life ways moms are pressing pause and rediscovering how to relax.
1. Get lost in a good book.
Escape to another time and place in the pages of a great read. If necessary, put a “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door so everyone knows to come back later, because Mommy is taking a little break.
2. Watch your favorite TV series or movie.
For some of us, nothing hits the reset button like a date with a favorite show. After just an hour with all the Granthams at Downton Abbey, I’m ringing for Carson so he can update me on tonight’s menu and wondering how I’ll ever get dressed with my lady’s maid out of town…
3. Connect with a friend.
We all just want to be understood! And a good, long chat over a latte—or even just over FaceTime—with a trusted girlfriend is good for the soul. Find a friend and alternate going to each other’s houses for a cup of coffee or a glass of wine.
4. Have some spa time.
When I make an appointment for a facial, I feel relaxed thinking about it for the entire week leading up to it. Still, if you don’t want to leave the house, do all those pampering things you rarely get to indulge in on a normal, busy day. Soak, exfoliate, shave, do the clay mask, and moisturize until you’re as smooth as the baby who’s crying for you in the next room.
5. Make space for spiritual rest.
Sometimes the only thing that calms my racing mind and restores my spirit is a few moments reading my Bible and praying or meditating. Connecting with God reminds us that we’re not alone and that He will help us accomplish the 400 things before us.
6. Move and listen.
If you’re too exhausted to exert yourself with a run, just go for a slow walk with an audiobook. You’ll get lost in the story and forget about the stacks of laundry or the work deadline looming on the horizon.
7. Create.
For some of us, there’s something very therapeutic about working with our hands. Even if you’re not an artist, online art tutorials, coloring books, puzzles, or cross-stitch are great ways to calm your mind while you’re sitting on your behind.
8. Organize.
I know what you’re thinking: That sounds an awful lot like work. But for a certain breed of moms, having some uninterrupted time to straighten out that closet or sort those photos is like a drug. They love the process and walk away feeling like the world is a better place, just because they can find stuff now.
9. Get lost in a thrift store.
There’s something surprisingly refreshing about wandering the aisles of a thrift store. It’s a treasure hunt where you never know what you’ll find, like a vintage mug, a cozy sweater, or a cookbook like the one your mom used. It’s an easy, low-pressure outing that lets your mind wander without a to-do list chasing you down.
Check out even more ways to unwind in 31 Ideas for Mom’s Daily Me Time!
Tell us how to relax! What charges your “mom batteries” best when you have a few moments to yourself?
