Self Care for Moms on a Budget: Simple Ways to Refill Your Cup Without Spending Much
If you’ve ever poured your energy into everyone else and realized there’s nothing left for you, you’re not alone. Motherhood is beautiful — but it’s also exhausting. That’s why self care for moms is so important.
Motherhood Is Beautiful… and Draining
I have to be honest, I tend to cringe when I see a “Self-Care for Moms” post. Not because moms don’t deserve time to unwind and relax, not because they don’t deserve to have their basic needs met, or not even because I am jealous of how others choose to have self-care. What does bother me, is that self-care has become overly complicated and expensive. This makes it feel out of reach to moms, especially low income moms.
Here’s the thing: most of us don’t have the time or money for spa days or weekend getaways. What we need is realistic, affordable self care — simple things that help us recharge without adding more stress or guilt.
1. Take a Walk — Free Therapy for the Soul
Lately, I’ve been taking long walks. It’s become my favorite kind of self care — quiet, refreshing, and completely free. Walking gives me time to think, move my body, and enjoy a bit of peace before heading back into the chaos of family life.
You don’t have to go far. Even ten minutes around the block or a stroll through your backyard can help clear your mind and lower stress. Bonus: it’s great for your physical health, too. Sometimes I walk my dog or take the baby for a walk in her stroller. Either way, we all enjoy some fresh air and it’s a nice reset.
2. Create a “Mom-Only” Morning or Night Routine
Self care for moms often starts with reclaiming a few minutes of alone time. You don’t need to overhaul your day — just carve out a small window that’s yours.
Maybe it’s sipping coffee and reading your Bible in silence before the kids wake up or reading a few pages of a book before bed. These little habits add up and remind you that your needs matter, too.
3. Embrace Free or Cheap Relaxation at Home
Here are a few affordable ways to relax at home:
- Light a candle and take a long shower — uninterrupted, if possible.
- Put on calming music or a podcast while you fold laundry.
- Paint your nails, stretch, or journal your thoughts.
- Watch a comfort show guilt-free (mine is Roseanne).
Self care doesn’t have to look fancy — it just has to feel good.
4. Ask for (and Accept) Help
Many moms struggle to ask for help, but rest is part of self care. If a friend offers to take your kids for an hour, say yes. If your husband can handle bedtime, take that break. You don’t earn extra mom points for doing everything alone.
Remember: taking care of yourself helps you take better care of your family.
5. Connect with Other Moms
Sometimes, the best self care for moms is knowing you’re not alone. Whether it’s texting a friend, joining a local mom group, or chatting with another parent at the park, connection reminds you that we’re all figuring this out together.
Sharing stories, laughter, and struggles can be more healing than you realize — and it costs nothing. I love hanging out with my friends for a few hours every month or so. All of our kids love to spend time together and we could talk for hours. It refreshes my soul every time.
6. Let Go of the Guilt
If you take one thing away from this, let it be this: you need self care.
Not because you’ve “earned” it, but because you’re human.
Caring for yourself doesn’t take away from your family — it strengthens you for them. Whether it’s a quiet walk, a hot bath, or just sitting in silence for a few minutes, those moments matter.
Finding Peace in the Everyday: Self Care for Moms That Truly Works
Self care for moms doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated. It can be as simple as taking a walk, enjoying a warm cup of tea, or saying “no” to one more thing on your to-do list.
The best self care is the kind that actually fits your life — and that starts with giving yourself permission to rest.
