5 Daily Rituals to Help Moms Feel Less Overwhelmed
Being a mom is undoubtedly one of the most challenging jobs out there. It's a rollercoaster of ups and downs—daily—exhausting and overwhelming, yet it fills you with some of the most joy-filled moments you will ever experience! There are days when you're counting down the minutes until bedtime to catch a breath, only to find yourself scrolling through photos of your little ones and longing for their sweet cuddles the moment they're asleep.
Motherhood brings a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. From worrying about your child's immediate needs to envisioning their future, it's easy to feel consumed by the never-ending to-do list and the weight of responsibility. Amidst the chaos, carving out time for yourself is crucial, even if it seems impossible.
As a mom of twins, I understand the struggle firsthand. Today, I'm sharing my favorite five simple yet effective ways to sneak in some much-needed me-time without sacrificing precious moments with your family. These tips require minimal effort but can make a significant difference in reducing overwhelm and reclaiming a sense of sanity.
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1. Take a Day Just for You
This might sound impossible at first, but once you try it, you’ll wonder how you lived without it. Designate a night or a day that’s 100% for you—no interruptions, no guilt, just time to recharge.
Here’s my favorite routine that might help you, too:
After the kids are in bed, I take a relaxing bath.
I settle in early with a good book or movie—something just for me.
If my mind is cluttered, I write down my to-do list for the next day or week. This helps me feel more organized and relax knowing I have a plan.
Tip: Get your partner involved! When my twins were little, I let my husband know he was on duty during these times. Now that they’re older, it’s less of an issue, but when they were younger, this small strategy made all the difference.
Update: Over the years, this practice has evolved. With my kids now in school, I’ve created "Self-Care Fridays." It’s my time to focus on myself before the weekend chaos. Whether it’s running errands alone, catching up on a hobby, or just enjoying a quiet cup of coffee, this time is priceless.
2. Ignore the To-Do List
Sometimes, you need to let go of the endless to-do list and give yourself permission to rest. The dishes and laundry can wait—your well-being cannot.
Here’s how to make the most of that time:
Sneak in a nap.
Watch a TV show or read a chapter of your favorite book.
Write, meditate, or try some gentle yoga.
Do whatever helps you feel refreshed before diving back into mom life.
Remember: The world won’t fall apart if everything isn’t done perfectly. Prioritize moments that refresh and energize you.
3. Diffuse Essential Oils
Essential oils are a zero-effort way to reduce stress and create a calming atmosphere in your home. Certain scents can instantly shift your mood and help you relax, even amidst the chaos.
My Top Oils to Try:
Lavender: Promotes relaxation and better sleep.
Citrus (like orange or lemon): Boosts energy and uplifts your mood.
Vanilla: Brings warmth and comfort.
Simple Rituals:
Use a diffuser to fill your space with soothing aromas.
Keep a room spray handy for quick refreshers.
Add a few drops of essential oil to your bath or shower.
Favorite Oils: My favorite affordable oils can be found at Eden’s Garden. Check them out here
My Journey with Essential Oils: From Young Living to Edens Garden
Quality oils without breaking the bank! Learn more about how to incorporate oils into your daily routine. I will share details and practical tips for using oils from my experience over the past 20 years! (yikes, I feel old saying that!)
4. Ditch Your Phone
Do you find yourself constantly checking your phone, even when you’re busy with the kids? This habit can leave you feeling drained and distracted without realizing it!!
Here are some starting points:
Start with social media-free weekends.
Gradually set specific times to check your phone during the day.
Try a social media detox for 3-7 days to see the difference it makes in your mental clarity and mood.
Personal Update: In 2021, I quit social media completely, and it made a significant difference in my mental health and productivity. If you’re not ready to quit entirely, deleting apps temporarily can help you resist the urge to scroll.
5. Forgive Yourself and Release to God
One of the most impactful ways to reduce stress is to forgive yourself.
As moms, we often carry guilt and stress, feeling like we’re not doing enough. Some days are absolute disasters, but forgiving yourself and releasing those feelings to something greater can bring a profound sense of peace.
Here’s what helped me:
Acknowledge that you’re doing your best with the resources you have.
Accept that not every day will be perfect, and that’s okay.
Develop a spiritual practice—whether it’s prayer, journaling, or simply reflecting on your intentions.
Since becoming a mother, I’ve learned the importance of letting go of perfection and trusting in something greater. It’s a daily practice, but the more I release those feelings of inadequacy, the more joy and freedom I find.
My Final Thoughts
Motherhood is a beautiful yet demanding journey, and taking care of yourself is essential—not selfish. By incorporating these simple daily rituals, you can reduce stress, recharge your energy, and show up as the best version of yourself for your family.
What strategies do you use to avoid mom burnout? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
(P.S. Don’t forget to download my free guide, "Fuel Your Soul," for even more tips on reducing stress and nourishing your body, mind, and spirit!)
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