10 Self-Care Tips for Busy Working Moms: Porque te lo Mereces!

As a working mom, especially in the Latinx community, it can feel like you’re juggling a million things, your family, your career, and everything in between. With all that responsibility, it’s easy to forget about taking care of yourself. But the truth is, self-care is essential. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and making time for yourself helps you be the best version of you, both at home and at work.

Here are some simple self-care tips to help you recharge because you matter, too.

1. Schedule "Me Time"

Just like you schedule meetings or your kids’ activities, carve out time on your calendar for yourself. Even if it’s just 15-30 minutes a day, that time is important. Whether you use it to read, take a walk, or simply relax in silence, it’s your moment to recharge.

2. Set Boundaries at Work and Home

Being a working mom often means feeling like you need to do it all, but setting boundaries is key to avoiding burnout. Let your colleagues know when you’re unavailable, and don’t feel obligated to check work emails after hours. At home, it’s okay to ask for help and let your family know when you need a break. Saying “no” sometimes doesn’t make you any less strong.

3. Prioritize Sleep

Getting enough sleep is essential for your health and well-being. It can be tempting to sacrifice sleep to get everything done, but rest is key to keeping your mind and body strong. It is also easy to fall into the trap of staying up too late after your kid has gone to bed because we want to maximize alone time. However, this only perpetuates the cycle of fatigue by makign you feel tired the next day. Try creating a relaxing bedtime routine and aim for a consistent sleep schedule. When you’re well-rested, you’ll feel more capable of handling whatever the day throws at you.

4. Stay Active

Exercise doesn’t have to be a big commitment to be effective. Whether it’s a quick walk with the kids, stretching, or dancing in your living room, staying active can help boost your mood and energy levels. Even small amounts of movement can relieve stress and help you feel more centered.

5. Lean on Your Support System

You don’t have to do everything on your own. Whether it’s asking a friend to watch the kids for a bit or talking things through with someone you trust, it’s okay to lean on your support system. Sometimes, just knowing someone’s there for you can make all the difference.

6. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is about being present in the moment. You don’t have to meditate for hours, just take a few minutes to breathe deeply or focus on something that brings you peace. It could be as simple as enjoying your morning coffee in silence or taking a quick walk outside. These small moments of mindfulness can help you feel more grounded.

7. Nourish Your Body

Eating well can often fall by the wayside when you’re busy, but nourishing your body with healthy foods is essential. Try to prepare meals in advance or keep simple, nutritious snacks on hand. When you fuel your body properly, you’ll have more energy to tackle everything on your plate.

8. Let Go of Perfection

It’s easy to feel like you need to do everything perfectly at work or home. But it’s okay to let go of that pressure. Doing your best doesn’t mean being perfect. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and not have everything under control all the time. Read more about the Type-B Mom HERE.

9. Treat Yourself

Self-care doesn’t have to be grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s the small things that can make a big difference. Treat yourself to something that makes you happy, whether that’s your favorite coffee, a relaxing bath, or a new book. Little moments of joy can have a big impact on your overall well-being.

10. Don’t Forget to Breathe

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to stop and breathe. Inhale deeply for a few seconds, hold it, and then exhale slowly. This small practice can help calm your mind and body, making it easier to handle whatever comes next.

Being a working mom is no easy task, and it’s easy to put yourself last. But taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of everyone else. By incorporating small acts of self-care into your routine, you’ll feel more energized, balanced, and ready to take on whatever life throws your way.

Porque tú también importas.

De Aquí y de allá,

Elsa Matsumoto, LCSW