10 Simple Ways to Recharge and Feel Human Again
Becoming a mum is one of the most beautiful yet overwhelming experiences in life. Between sleepless nights, endless nappy changes and the constant needs of your little one, self-care can often take a back seat. But here’s the truth: you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. So, if you’re feeling utterly exhausted and in need of a recharge, here are some simple and effective self-care tips to help you feel like yourself again.
1. Accept That Self-Care Looks Different Now
Before baby, self-care might have meant luxurious spa days, weekend lie-ins or spontaneous getaways. Now, it probably looks more like gulping down a lukewarm cup of tea before your baby wakes up from a nap. The key is to shift your mindset, self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant to be effective. Even small moments of joy and relaxation add up.
You might find that listening to your favourite song while changing a nappy or taking a deep breath before responding to a fussy baby, can feel like self-care. The trick is to redefine what self-care means to you in this new chapter of life. Little moments count!
2. Nap When You Can (Guilt-Free!)
"Sleep when the baby sleeps!" we say. Easier said than done when there’s a mountain of washing to tackle, bottles to clean and a to-do list that never ends. But here’s the thing—none of those things are more important than your health. If you’re utterly shattered, leave the mess, ignore the chores and grab some rest whenever you can. Even a short power nap can work wonders for your energy levels and mental clarity.
And if you’re not someone who naps easily? At least rest. Put your feet up, close your eyes, and just breathe. If the mental load is keeping you awake, try listening to a guided meditation, rain sounds or white noise to calm your mind.
3. Hydrate and Nourish Your Body
When you’re constantly on mum duty, it’s easy to forget about your own basic needs. How many times have you made a cup of tea only to find it hours later, stone cold? Or realised you haven’t had a proper meal all day? Your body has been through a lot—it needs proper fuel to keep going. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip throughout the day. Dehydration can make exhaustion even worse, so staying hydrated is crucial. Stock up on easy, nutritious snacks like nuts, yoghurt and fruit so you always have something on hand.
If you struggle with meal prep, consider batch-cooking meals in advance or asking for help from family or friends. Even a simple smoothie packed with greens and protein can do wonders for your energy.
4. Step Outside for Fresh Air
Sometimes, the best pick-me-up is a change of scenery. A quick walk around the block, a trip to the local park or even sitting in the garden with a cuppa can work wonders for your mood. Fresh air, even for just ten minutes, can reset your mind and help you feel more like yourself.
Even if you can’t go far, opening a window and letting some sunlight in can lift your spirits. Natural light helps regulate your sleep patterns and boosts your mood, two things every new mum needs!
5. Ask for Help and Accept It
Repeat after me: you do NOT have to do it all on your own. If someone offers to help, whether it’s your partner, family, or a friend, say yes! Whether it’s cooking a meal, doing a food shop or holding the baby while you nap, take the support where you can.
And if no one is offering? Ask. There’s no shame in needing help. Being a mum is a full-time job plus overtime and you deserve a break. If asking directly feels awkward, try saying, "It would be really helpful if you could..." People often want to help but don’t know how, so give them clear ways to support you.
6. Embrace the Power of a Quick Shower
Never underestimate the refreshing magic of a shower. Even if it’s just five minutes, the warm water can relax your muscles, clear your head and make you feel human again. Bonus points if you light a candle or use a fancy shower gel, it’s the little things that can make a big difference! If finding time for a shower feels impossible, try doing it while your baby naps or ask your partner to hold the baby for a few minutes. A quick rinse-off can be just enough to help you reset and feel a little more put together.
7. Make Time for Something You Enjoy
You were a person before you were a mum and you still deserve time to do the things you love. Whether it’s reading, journaling, listening to music, painting or even scrolling aimlessly through TikTok, make time for YOU. It doesn’t have to be hours, just a little pocket of time each day. If you can’t manage long stretches, try micro-moments of self-care: reading one page of a book, dancing to a favourite song or scribbling a quick thought in a journal. These tiny moments add up and remind you that you're still YOU.
8. Connect with Other Mums
Motherhood can feel isolating, but you are NOT alone. Chatting with other new mums, whether online or in real life can be an absolute game-changer. No one else truly understands what you’re going through quite like another sleep-deprived mum!
Look for local baby groups, postnatal yoga classes or even join a WhatsApp group for new mums in your area. Knowing you have people to message when you’re up for the fifth night feed makes all the difference. If you’re not comfortable with face-to-face interactions yet, social media and online forums can provide a safe space to connect, vent and seek advice.
9. Practice Gratitude
It’s easy to focus on the exhaustion, the tears (yours and the baby’s!) and the never-ending laundry pile. But try to take a moment each day to focus on the good. Maybe it’s your baby’s first proper giggle, a moment of quiet in the house or the joy of a hot cup of tea. Writing down three things you’re grateful for each day can help shift your mindset and bring a little positivity to your routine. Youcould even keep a "mum wins" journal—jot down small victories, like getting the baby to sleep in their cot or drinking your coffee while it’s still warm. These little wins add up and remind you of the magic in motherhood.
10. Be Kind to Yourself
There’s no such thing as a perfect mum. Some days, you’ll smash it, clean house, happy baby, dinner on the table. Other days, just keeping yourself and the baby alive is an achievement. And that’s okay.
Give yourself grace. Speak to yourself with kindness. Remember that every single day, you are doing your absolute best and that is enough. If you wouldn’t criticise a friend for struggling, don’t do it to yourself. If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to someone, a friend, family member or even a professional. You are never alone in this journey and support is always available.
Self-care doesn’t have to be big, grand or time-consuming. It’s about stealing little moments for yourself, recharging your batteries and reminding yourself that you matter too. You are more than just “Mum” - you’re a whole, incredible person who deserves love, care and rest.
Go ahead mama,drink that tea while it’s hot, have that nap and let someone else do the dishes for once. You’ve earned it.
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