10 Self Care Ideas for the Overwhelmed Single Mom

Single moms do everything. We nurture, we provide, we clean, we protect — without much backup. It’s no surprise that many single moms feel stretched to their limits — especially single mothers of toddlers (like me!). We often care for our children and others, and forget to care for ourselves.

Why? Aren’t we as important as our children and everyone else? Don’t we deserve to be taken care of too? If no one else will do it, it’s all up to you.

Mama, listen up. Self care is essential.

When you care for yourself, even in small ways, you refill your tank and reenergize to face another day. As single moms of toddlers, we all need that energy!

In this post, you’ll discover realistic, simple self care ideas that you can actually fit into your busy day, no matter how hectic life gets. You will also get a free printable Self Care Checklist designed just for single moms.

Here are ideas that take 5 — 15 minutes or less. Most require no money and little to no planning.

1. Morning Moments of Peace (5 minutes)

• Before your toddler wakes, drink your coffee or tea while watching the sunrise, journaling, or reading.

• Sit in silence. Just breathe. Even 3 —5 minutes can reset your tone for the day.

2. Midday Reset Break (10 minutes)

• Do a 10-minute yoga video or stretch your back and legs.

• Step outside, even just onto a balcony or porch.

• Listen to a favorite song with headphones while your toddler naps or plays nearby.

3. Mindful Showering

• Instead of rushing, use one minute to feel the water and breathe deeply. Use a favorite scent or soap to turn it into a mini spa.

4. Write It Out (5 — 10 minutes)

• Keep a journal nearby and write three things you’re feeling and three things you’re grateful for.

• Scribble out your stress. No editing.

5. Declutter One Tiny Spot

• Tackle one drawer or surface. Small wins can feel powerful.

6. Talk to Someone

• Text or call a trusted friend. Start with, "Just wanted to check in..."

• Join an online mom group or forum for connection.

7. Nourish Yourself

• Make one meal just for you that you actually enjoy.

• Drink a full glass of water every time your toddler snacks.

8. Move Your Body

• Dance with your toddler.

• Do squats while folding laundry or brushing your teeth.

9. Give Yourself a Compliment

• Look in the mirror and say one kind thing to yourself each day.

10. Prepare Something That Supports Future You

• Lay out clothes for tomorrow.

• Pre-chop veggies.

• Fill your water bottle before bed.

• Write a short To-Do list.

Free Printable: Self-Care Checklist for Single Moms To make it easier to build self-care into your day, I’ve created a simple printable checklist with 11 quick self-care activities and bubbles to check off each time you do them. Get it for free here.

You don’t have to do everything perfectly to be a good mom. And you don’t have to wait for life to calm down to care for yourself. Self-care in survival mode is still self-care—and it’s still powerful. So come on Mama, let’s do this.

Choose one thing from the list above today. Print the checklist and stick it to your fridge or bathroom mirror. You deserve to feel cared for too.

You’re not just caring for a toddler—you’re caring for yourself, one empowered, grace-filled moment at a time.

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“I’m a Mom With No Manuals and I’m doing a great job.”