When the “soft life” trend began appearing on my social media feeds, filled with idyllic moments of ease and happiness, I had a mixed reaction. Who wouldn’t? I found myself watching these flawless momfluencers glide through fragrant kitchens in luxurious robes, effortlessly preparing avocado toast between yoga sessions, and lounging in pristine, toy-free living spaces. For many, that kind of life feels incredibly distant. The truth? A recent study found that 65% of working parents face burnout, and I can relate to that statistic on a deeply personal level.
Amid the whirlwind of back-to-back births, with each day blurring into the next and my trusty dry shampoo being my only savior, I spent nearly four exhausting years managing endless appointments, sleepless nights, and packed schedules. Then, a shift began within me. I didn’t merely want softness; I truly needed it—authentic softness, the kind that nestles into daily routines instead of curated social media highlights. If you’re also longing for a gentler pace in your busy mom life, here’s how I’ve started to integrate self-care, one small step at a time.
1. The Quickest Nail Fix
Let’s be honest: a trip to the nail salon feels as possible as planning a solo vacation these days. Yet, there’s something uplifting about looking down at well-manicured nails that can instantly enhance my mood. I stumbled upon pre-glued press-on nails, and honestly, they are transformative. The latest styles aren’t flimsy or difficult to apply at all. My go-to has become Impress Press-On Nails. I can’t even begin to tally the compliments I’ve received! They take less than a minute to put on, and even amid my usual mom duties—diaper changes, washing dishes—they last nearly a week. Every time I glance at them, I feel like a refreshed version of myself.
2. A Pilates Workout I’ll Actually Finish
Don’t get me started on the difficulty of reestablishing a workout routine; I might as well hold a title in that particular club! However, when my body began feeling “crunchy”—the type of stiffness that makes turning over in bed feel like preparing for the Olympics—I recognized it was time for a new strategy. I shifted my focus from long workouts that I once had time for and took a friend’s suggestion to check out Bailey Brown’s YouTube channel. She provides month-long challenges with short 5-8 minute workouts that effectively get my heart pumping, and honestly, I haven’t looked back. Simply embracing movement in a way that suits me has really lifted my spirits.
3. Sipping My Sanity With Tea
Coffee used to be my emotional crutch, but I’ve recently exchanged my second cup for a calming afternoon tea. Let me tell you, tea is akin to that wise, calm friend who doesn’t judge your snack choices or your desire to escape to the bathroom for a rare moment of silence. It’s truly underrated! Sipping tea encourages me to slow down, appreciate its flavors, and take my time. If you’re exploring the world of tea, be ready for an overwhelming array of options! Personally, I’m a huge fan of the peach mango variety from Lipton. It’s fruity and comforting, and on hot summer days, I love pouring it over ice with a touch of honey for a little “spa moment” in my mason jar.
4. 3-Minute Red Light Therapy
The theme of time scarcity continues! However, one indulgence I’ve successfully woven into my routine is a red light therapy mask. My favorite is the Dr. Dennis Gross’ DRx SpectraLite. While it’s a splurge, the benefits truly make it worthwhile. It features three modes for addressing acne, fine lines, and redness—all in just a few minutes. The best part? I get the chance to disconnect. I sit there with my eyes shut, away from screens and emails, just soaking in that soft, glowing light. It’s like discovering a hidden oasis of bliss, leaving me feeling refreshed.
5. A Podcast For The Moms
In the past, my car rides and chore times were filled with me mentally planning my next steps, but now I hit play on a podcast that helps me reconnect with myself. One of my absolute favorites is “Mom Friends.” Co-hosted by fitness influencer Remi Ishizuka Pontious and her doula best friend Laura Gimbert, it’s packed with candid conversations about the challenges of motherhood, along with gentle wellness advice that feels like a warm embrace. It’s comforting to remember that I’m not navigating this journey alone.
Ultimately, these small rituals serve as a gentle reminder that tranquility and presence can coexist with the chaos of motherhood. Just keep in mind that how you choose to define that balance is entirely up to you. You’re not alone in aspiring for a softer, gentler life—make it your own!
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