Self Care in 5 Minutes a Day for Homeschool Moms

I’d like you to close your eyes for a minute and picture a self care act. Seriously, do it.

I bet you pictured a long bubble bath with a vase of flowers on the side of the tub, classical music playing in the background, and no kids in sight.

I’d also bet that you haven’t had that in a long long time. Me either. Who has time to prepare all that? (If you do, GO YOU. Take advantage.)

I’ve dedicated a lot of time to self care in the past few years. From utilizing self love journal prompts to arranging nights away when possible, I’ve found that the more time I focus on self care the better I feel.

The good news is that self care doesn’t have to take hours and hours. In fact, most of my self care techniques take less than 5 minutes a day. It’s about taking advantage of as many opportunities as possible and know what constitutes self care for you.

The bad news is that I cannot tell you exactly how to cover your self care needs in 5 minutes a day. What I mean is that, self care is a very personal act. Only you know how to recharge yourself. But I can get you started…I hope.

How to Fit in Self Care

For me, that hardest part of self care is actually finding time and making the time to dedicate to myself. Here are my ideas on how to make it more of a reality for you.

Make a list of everything you find relaxing.

Talking with friends, doing your nails, reading a book, meditating, doing the dishes (okay that may be a stretch). It doesn’t matter what it is or if it’s a typical form of relaxation. If it’s relaxing for you, write it down.

Look at your schedule.

Is 5 minutes a day feasible? Could you do 10 minutes everyone other day instead?

If fitting self care in every day is stressful it’s not going to be worth it. It’s also possible that 5 minutes at a time may not be worth it for you. You may need more time to really relax for the benefits. Know yourself.

Match up your list with you schedule.

If you decided you have 15 minutes three times a week determine what activities you can do in 15 minutes.

Commit

Let’s be honest, the hardest part of self care isn’t finding the time or deciding what to do. The hardest part is actually doing it. Every time I have a free 5 minutes I wonder what I can get done – start laundry, dishes, bathroom in peace?

Vanquish guilt

I have so many friends that feel guilty for taking time for themselves. Don’t!! Your kids need to see that you choose to be healthy. They can sacrifice 5 minutes for your sanity.

You deserve some me-time too! Taking care of yourself is super important, and it doesn’t have to take hours out of your busy day. We’ve got some quick and easy self-care tips just for you. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive in!

1. Breathe Deeply: Take a deep breath, mama! Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and breathe in slowly through your nose. Feel your belly rise like a balloon and then slowly exhale through your mouth. Deep breathing can help calm your mind and relax your body. Ahh, doesn’t that feel nice?
2. Stretch It Out: Being a homeschool mom means you’re always on the go. Take a break and give your body a good stretch. Reach up high to the sky, touch your toes, and twist your body gently from side to side. Stretching helps release tension and keeps your muscles happy.
3. Dance Party Break: Who says you can’t have fun while homeschooling? Put on your favorite upbeat song and have a spontaneous dance party with your kids. Jump, wiggle, and let loose! Dancing is a great way to boost your mood and get those endorphins flowing.
4. Savor a Snack: Treat yourself to a yummy snack that makes you smile. It could be a piece of chocolate, a handful of berries, or even a crunchy carrot. Take small bites and savor the flavors. It’s a little moment of joy that can make your day brighter.
5. Phone-Free Zone: Set aside a few minutes every day where you put your phone away. Use this time to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself. Read a chapter from your favorite book, doodle in a journal, or simply sit in silence. Enjoy the peace and quiet.
6. Pamper Your Hands: Homeschooling often involves a lot of cleaning and washing dishes. So why not give your hands some extra love? Fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of your favorite scented oil. Dip your hands in and let them soak for a few minutes. Ahh, pure bliss!
7. Laugh Out Loud: Laughter is the best medicine, they say. And we couldn’t agree more! Watch a funny video, read a silly joke, or have a tickle fight with your kids. Let the laughter roll and feel the stress melt away.
8. Nature Time: Step outside and enjoy some fresh air. Take a short walk around the block or sit on a bench in the park. Notice the beauty around you—the flowers, the trees, the chirping birds. Nature has a way of calming our minds and reminding us of the simple joys in life.
9. Write It Out: Grab a pen and paper and let your thoughts flow freely. Write down your feelings, dreams, or even make a to-do list. Journaling can be a great way to express yourself and find clarity in the chaos.
10. Hug It Out: Hugs are magical, aren’t they? Give your loved ones a big, warm hug. Hugging releases oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone, and instantly makes you feel more connected and loved.

 

What else can you do in 5-60 minutes a day?