Let’s face it: life as a mom is busy. Between school drop-offs, errands, and after-school pickups, it can feel like there’s no time left for you. But here’s a secret: those little moments sitting in the car while waiting can become pockets of self-care. With the right mindset and a few simple self-care tips, you can turn the quiet time in your car into a mini sanctuary. Are you ready? I am…..
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Why Self-Care Matters for Moms
Apparently self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.
And to be honest, I struggle with scheduling self-care time and meeting my own needs. I’m used to putting everyone else above myself. But I’m trying to put myself first sometimes and ignore the guilt. And based on research on moms’ mental health and self-care, I don’t think I’m alone.
When you take alone time to recharge, even for a few minutes, you’re better equipped to handle the demands of motherhood. Short moments of self-care can lower stress, boost your mood, and remind you to put yourself on the priority list too.
15 Simple Self-Care Tips for Moms in the Car
With further ado, here’s a list of self-care tips and ideas to sneak in while sitting in the car waiting for your kids. Put down those endless to-do lists for just a a minutes and spend a little time taking care of yourself.
1. Practice Mini Meditations
Use apps like Calm or Headspace to guide you through quick meditations. Even five minutes of mindfulness can help you feel grounded and refreshed.
2. Try Deep Breathing Exercises
During this quiet time, focus on slow, deep breaths to relax your body and mind. A simple 4-7-8 breathing technique can work wonders for your mental health.
3. Listen to an Uplifting Audiobook
Keep a motivational or fun audiobook in your car for entertainment and inspiration. Your local library usually has free books to download or you can start a free trial at Amazon Audible.
4. Pamper Your Hands
Use a travel-sized hand cream or apply cuticle oil while you wait. It’s a small act of care that feels indulgent.
5. Enjoy a Healthy Snack
Keep nutritious, easy-to-eat snacks in the car, like almonds or granola bars. Pair it with your favorite beverage in a reusable travel mug. Enjoy this alone time without your kids wanting you to share your snack! Check out 20+ Best Car Snacks for Busy Moms for more!
6. Stretch Your Body
Gently stretch your neck, shoulders, and legs while seated. Sure it’s not extensive physical activity, BUT simple stretches can relieve tension from a busy day.
7. Create a Relaxing Playlist
Compile your favorite songs that calm you (or nature sounds) and let the music ease your stress. Grab a neck pillow to increase relaxation.
8. Engage in Gratitude Practice
Reflect on three things you’re thankful for as a busy mom while you wait. Feel free to keep a gratitude journal in your car console or glove compartment to jot things down. This small act can shift your mindset to a more positive place.
9. Use Essential Oils
Keep a small roller with calming scents like lavender or peppermint to enhance relaxation. If you don’t mind taking the risk of other parents seeing you, consider calming face masks.
10. Write or Journal
Carry a small notebook or use a journaling app to jot down thoughts, to-do lists, or affirmations.
11. Take a Tech Break
Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb”, stop scrolling through social media and answering emails. Close your eyes and spend a few minutes enjoying this quiet time.
12. Plan Something Fun for Yourself
Use the time to brainstorm an activity you’ll enjoy later, like a coffee date with friends or a relaxing bath. Be sure to put it on the calendar so you won’t back out of it!!
13. Color or Doodle
Keep an adult coloring book or sketchpad in the car for a creative break. Here’s a few bestsellers on Amazon.
14. Focus on Your Breathing
Close your eyes and simply focus on each inhale and exhale. It’s a quick way to center yourself.
15. Visualize Your Goals
Spend a few moments visualizing personal goals or dreams to inspire and motivate yourself.
Which self-care tip is right for you? And maybe it’s not just one. Maybe it’s Meditation on Monday (#meditationmonday?) and coloring on Wednesdays. Mix it up!
Car Supply Essentials
Once you’ve picked your self-care tips, just be sure to stock your car up ahead of time with the essentials, such as:
- Small bag with items like hand cream, earbuds, and a journal.
- Favorite travel mug or water bottle to stay hydrated
- Healthy, non-perishable snacks for energy
Self-care and better mental health doesn’t have to mean hours at a spa—it can be as simple as breathing deeply, listening to a good book, or pampering your hands. You deserve it!
The next time you’re parked and waiting, try one or two of these simple self-care tips for moms in the car and let me know how it went in the comments below.
