As a mom, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of daily tasks—packing lunches, attending school events, managing schedules, and ensuring everyone is fed, happy, and healthy. But somewhere in the middle of all that, we often forget about one crucial person: ourselves. The truth is, self-care isn't a luxury for moms—it's a necessity. And yet, so many of us feel guilty about carving out time for ourselves.

I’ve been there. Whether it’s feeling like I should be spending every free minute folding laundry or guilty for leaving the kids with my partner so I can go for a walk, I know how easy it is to push my needs to the back burner. But over time, I realized that taking care of myself isn’t selfish—it’s vital. When I feel recharged, I show up as a better mom, partner, and person.

Here are a few things I’ve learned to help me prioritize self-care without the guilt:

1. Schedule it like any other task.
I used to wait for "free time," but it never came. So now, I block out time for myself in the same way I would for a doctor's appointment or a playdate. Whether it's a 30-minute walk, an hour of reading, or even a therapy session, I treat it as an essential part of my day.

2. Start small.
Self-care doesn’t always have to mean a weekend away or a spa day (though those are nice, too!). Sometimes, it's just taking 10 minutes to enjoy a cup of coffee alone in the kitchen or journaling for five minutes in the morning. Little moments of stillness can make a world of difference.

3. Let go of the "perfect mom" myth.
There will always be laundry to fold, dishes to wash, and errands to run. The truth is, the world won’t fall apart if you take a moment for yourself. Giving yourself permission to rest doesn’t mean you’re failing as a mom—it means you’re human. And honestly? Your kids will benefit from seeing you take care of yourself too. They'll learn the importance of self-love and boundaries.

4. Communicate with your partner.
If you have a partner, share your need for time to recharge. It’s not a sign of weakness or neglect; it’s a recognition that you need support. When I communicate openly about my needs, my partner is usually more than willing to step in and give me the space I need to reset.

5. Engage in hobbies that fill you up.
For me, hobbies like painting, reading, and writing have been my lifesavers. It’s not always about escaping, but rather reconnecting with the parts of myself that motherhood might sometimes overshadow. Do something that makes you feel like you again—whether it’s creative, physical, or just plain fun.

6. Practice guilt-free time.
This is a big one. There was a time when I'd feel guilty even for a 20-minute bath. But now, I remind myself that taking time for my well-being makes me a better mom. The world won’t stop turning if I take a break—and my family will be better for it.

Prioritizing self-care doesn’t mean you’re neglecting your family—it means you’re showing up for them in the best way possible. So, to all the moms out there: give yourself permission to rest, recharge, and take care of you. You deserve it. 💖