A guest blog post by Laura Pearson
The idea that mothers must sacrifice their mental and emotional well-being to be “good” moms has lingered far too long in our cultural subconscious. It’s a narrative that praises burnout and martyrdom while quietly eroding the emotional foundation every family relies on. But here’s the truth: when you nurture yourself, you create the space to nurture others more deeply. Self-care isn’t indulgent or selfish—it’s fundamental to mental health, especially for moms trying to balance parenting, careers, partnerships, and personal identities.
Pursue and Maintain Good Sleep
Sleep deprivation is a badge of honor in mom circles, often joked about and rarely addressed. But getting consistent, restorative sleep does more than help you avoid yawning through playdates—it directly influences mood, memory, patience, and resilience. Lack of sleep amplifies feelings of anxiety, shortens your temper, and turns minor stressors into major obstacles. Creating and protecting a bedtime routine—like setting screen curfews, dimming lights, or using natural sleep aids such as magnesium or lavender—can dramatically improve how you show up each day, both for yourself and your kids.
Find Unique Ways to Reduce Stress
- Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb has been used for centuries to help the body manage cortisol levels. It can be particularly useful for moms dealing with chronic tension, mood swings, or post-partum fatigue. Ashwagandha works gradually, but its effects build, promoting sustained calm and sharper focus over time. It’s available in capsules, teas, and even gummy form if you need stress relief on the go.
- L Theanine: This nutraceutical is the “ying” to the “yang” of caffeine in green tea. It has been scientifically shown to increase alpha brain waves. This indicates a state of relaxation without drowsiness. L theanine works immediately and can be taken as needed.
- Coloring Therapy: Adult coloring books aren’t just trendy—they actually help stimulate the parts of your brain tied to focus and calm. Taking even 10 minutes to color while your child does homework or naps can ground you and ease intrusive thoughts. There’s no pressure to “make art”—you’re simply letting yourself be absorbed in something peaceful. Plus, this can be a shared ritual with your kids that benefits you both.
Relax Without Earning It
Many moms believe they must “earn” rest, squeezing it in only after dishes are done, laundry is folded, and everyone else is settled. But relaxation is not a reward—it’s a requirement for mental clarity. Even ten minutes of stillness, deep breathing, or passive activities like listening to music or watching a favorite show can rewire your nervous system. Your brain needs idle moments to process emotion, problem-solve subconsciously, and recalibrate. Rest should be non-negotiable, not conditional.
The Invisible Work That Pays Off
Stress doesn’t just sit in your mind; it embeds itself in your body, affecting digestion, immunity, and even hormone levels. Yet moms are often so attuned to their children’s stress cues that they overlook their own. Practices like journaling, short outdoor walks, and even tapping into community support can lower cortisol levels and boost endorphins. And when things get overwhelming, give yourself permission to outsource, delay, or just let some balls drop. No one thrives in chronic stress—not even Supermom.
Saying No is Self Care
There’s quiet power in a well-placed “no.” Moms are frequently expected to say yes—to school events, last-minute errands, emotional labor, and so much more. But constantly overcommitting leads to emotional depletion. Saying no doesn’t make you rude or unhelpful; it makes you conscious of your capacity. Set boundaries based on your bandwidth, not guilt. Prioritize what aligns with your energy, and let the rest go without apology.
Make Something That’s Just Yours
Creating just for the sake of it—without any obligation to monetize or perfect—can be surprisingly therapeutic. Whether it’s doodling, baking, gardening, or writing poetry in the notes app on your phone, engaging in creative expression provides a sense of agency. You’re not producing something for your kids or your partner. You’re making something for the pure joy of it, and that’s a radical act in a culture that constantly asks moms to give themselves away. Creation anchors you in the present and reconnects you with your inner voice.
Micro-Moments of Liberation
You don’t need a weekend retreat to reset your nervous system. Sometimes, all it takes is five minutes with the door closed. Sit in your car alone after a Target run. Take your coffee out onto the porch in silence. Keep a book in your purse to sneak a chapter while waiting at soccer practice. These micro-escapes aren’t about avoiding your responsibilities but about reclaiming tiny moments of autonomy and serenity throughout the chaos of your day.
Self-care is not a box to check. It’s a dynamic, evolving relationship with yourself. It asks you to honor your needs, speak up when you’re drained, and step back when you’re overwhelmed. And the ripple effect is real—when you feel balanced, your children benefit from a grounded, more emotionally available parent. Your relationships become richer, and your sense of self deepens. So if you’ve been waiting for permission to slow down, this is it. You’re allowed to rest. You’re allowed to thrive—not just survive.
About the Author: Ms. Pearson and Edutude strive to find unique, creative ways for parents and educators to encourage students to be challenged, motivated and excited by learning.
Discover the path to a healthier, happier you with Nurtured Well, where expert care in women’s mental health is just a click away! Additionally, Sharon Fisher, founder of Nurtured Well, now offers nutraceutical options as well as conventional medicine.