Spring Into Self-Care: How I’m Prioritizing Myself as a Mom

Spring has arrived, and I’m excited for the vibrant season ahead. The shift from winter to spring feels like a complete 180—colorful blooms, longer days, and more sunshine. It’s a time of renewal, and I’m ready to embrace the fresh energy it brings.

Motherhood, much like the arrival of spring, is incredibly rewarding, though it can also be challenging. While I wouldn’t change it for anything, juggling the daily tasks can feel overwhelming. At the end of 2023, I decided to put my career on hold and become a full-time stay-at-home mom (SAHM), which added another layer to the busy routine.

Through it all, I’ve learned how essential it is for moms to prioritize self-care. We often put ourselves last, which can lead to burnout and stress. Balancing family, work, and personal needs often leads to significant stress for mothers. A 2014 Care.com survey found that one in four working moms cry alone at least once a week due to stress from balancing work, child care, and household duties. Additionally, a 2019 study by the University of Manchester revealed that biomarkers for chronic stress are 40% higher in women raising two children while working full-time, compared to women without children. These findings underscore the substantial stress that many mothers experience while trying to balance various roles and responsibilities. And while this post focuses on moms, dads need self-care too—encouraging each other to take time for ourselves benefits the whole family.

With spring here, it’s the perfect time to refocus on self-care. Winter often leaves me feeling like a cocoon, content staying in sweats, managing endless tasks at home. But with the new season, I’m committed to taking better care of myself.

To help with that, I’ve created a list of self-care goals for spring. These aren’t just rewards for milestones in my weight loss journey, but also intentional ways to nurture myself and stay refreshed for my family.

My Spring Self-Care Plans

1. Massage & Facial
   • Why these treatments help: Both a massage and a facial offer a chance to relax and rejuvenate. A massage helps to alleviate tension and stress, and personally, it’s helped me sleep better. I’ve never had a professional facial, but I’ve used face masks at home, which feel lovely. I’m looking forward to the rejuvenating effects on my skin from a professional facial.
     
2. Mani/Pedi
   • The confidence boost: There’s something about freshly done nails that boosts your confidence. Choosing fun, bright spring colors lifts my mood, and for some reason, I feel energized. I don’t get my nails done often, but when I do, it’s a wonderful treat. It’s a reminder that self-care doesn’t need to be extravagant—it’s the small things that count.
     
3. Coffee & Reading Date
   • Why this is my ideal self-care activity: A quiet morning with a good book and a cup of coffee is my idea of self-care bliss. Books provide a way for me to escape reality, and I’m currently taking on the A-to-Z reading challenge this year. I’m really looking forward to reading through a diverse list of books.
     
4. New Clothes for a New Me
   • Celebrating weight loss and fitness goals: This is a big one for me. I’ve been focused on a calorie deficit, eating nutrient-dense foods, and working out regularly. My favorite workouts involve a mix of strength training and cardio, especially with my Peloton. It’s been a journey, especially after gaining weight during pregnancy, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Shopping for clothes that fit my new body feels like a well-deserved reward for my hard work.
     
5. Eyebrow Lamination
   • Trying something new: Self-care doesn’t have to mean following the usual routine. I recently tried eyebrow lamination for the first time, hoping for an effortless way to enhance my look. The results? Fuller, more even brows—and I loved them so much that I booked my next appointment on the spot! Small beauty treatments like this can be a great confidence boost. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference in how we feel about ourselves.

Perfect Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day!

As we’re heading into the season of spring, it’s also a great time to start thinking about Mother’s Day! Whether you’re looking for something special for your own mom, a friend who’s a mom, or even as a treat for yourself, these self-care ideas are perfect gifts to show appreciation and love.

A relaxing massage & facial package, a gift card for a mani/pedi, or a coffee & reading date experience could make the perfect thoughtful present. You could also pamper your mom with something like a new set of clothes for a new season—a great way to celebrate her progress and style! Plus, if she’s been talking about trying eyebrow lamination or any other fun beauty treatments, this could be a thoughtful surprise.

Spring is the ideal time to show those around you how much they mean to you, and self-care gifts always leave a lasting impression.

More Ways Moms Can Pamper Themselves

In addition to the self-care ideas mentioned above, here are some other simple and enjoyable ways for moms to prioritize their well-being. While they may seem small, sometimes it’s the minor things that make the biggest difference in how we feel. These easy acts of self-care can help you recharge, reduce stress, and bring more balance to your daily life.

1. At-Home Relaxation Ideas
   • DIY facials, skincare routines, and meditation can be easy and affordable ways to unwind at home. Taking quiet moments to relax, whether it’s through reading or enjoying a bath, allows you to recharge.
   • Solo hotel stay: If you really need a break, consider booking a solo stay at a hotel for a full escape. Even just one night away can make a huge difference in how you feel.
     
2. Soaking Up the Sun
   • Benefits of fresh air and Vitamin D: We all know how much better we feel after spending time outside. Fresh air and sunlight are natural mood boosters and can help us feel more energized.
   • Fun outdoor activities:
     • Morning walks: They’re a great way to get moving and clear your mind.
     • Outdoor coffee and reading: Sitting on the back porch while the house is quiet, sipping my coffee and watching the sunrise, is a favorite morning ritual of mine.
     • Park visits and garden strolls: Spending time in nature, even if it’s just for a few minutes, can instantly refresh you.
     • Exercising outdoors: Bike riding is one of my favorite outdoor activities. I recently got a new bike, and riding it through the neighborhood is a fun way to stay active and enjoy the fresh air.
     • Sun-kissed pampering: After enjoying the sun, I treat my skin to spray tans or SPF-infused skincare to keep myself glowing while protecting my skin.

Focusing on Yourself This Spring

Taking care of yourself as a mom doesn’t mean neglecting your family—it helps you show up for them even better. Spring is the perfect time to refresh your body, mind, and spirit with simple self-care practices. Whether it’s a massage, a new hobby, or spending time outside, small actions can make a big difference.

Prioritizing self-care makes you a better mom, partner, and individual, leaving you feeling refreshed and motivated. Let’s embrace this season and remember we deserve time to nurture ourselves.

How will you prioritize yourself this spring? Drop your ideas in the comments! Again, be sure to make space for your well-being and give yourself the care you deserve.