From Burnout to Balance: Everyday Self-Care You Can Actually Do
From Burnout to Balance: Everyday Self-Care You Can Actually Do
As women, we are often the glue holding everything together. We pour ourselves into our kids, our jobs, our homes, our relationships—sometimes to the point where there’s nothing left for us. It’s easy to get caught in the cycle of go, go, go and forget that we also have needs. But here’s the truth: when you don’t care for yourself, burnout isn’t a matter of if—it’s a matter of when.
Self-care isn’t about bubble baths and face masks (though those can be wonderful). At its core, self-care is about awareness—tuning in to what your body, mind, and soul need—and then taking action to meet those needs. It’s about honoring yourself the same way you honor your commitments to everyone else.
And the good news? It doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. You can start small, with tiny shifts that help you feel supported, cared for, and re-energized.
Start with the Non-Negotiables
Think of these as your self-care foundation—the basics that keep you functioning:
Sleep: Aim for consistency, even if it’s not perfect. Create a simple bedtime routine that signals to your body it’s time to rest.
Hydration: Dehydration can mimic stress and anxiety. Keep a water bottle nearby and sip throughout the day. Bonus points if you add some minerals or electrolytes.
Nutrition: Nourish yourself with meals and snacks that give you energy, not just fill your stomach.
Movement: This doesn’t have to be a workout class. It can be a walk around the block, stretching while your kids play, or even dancing in the kitchen.
Hygiene: Taking a shower, brushing your teeth, or washing your face may feel small, but they can be grounding and restorative.
When these basics are missing, everything else feels harder. Meeting your foundational needs first makes self-care feel doable instead of overwhelming.
Check In With Yourself
We spend so much time checking on everyone else, but how often do we pause and check in with ourselves? A simple self-check might look like:
How am I feeling right now?
What do I need in this moment?
What’s one thing I can do to support myself today?
Sometimes the answer is a snack, a nap, or just a few minutes of quiet. Other times, it’s reaching out to a friend, asking for help, or setting a boundary.
Romanticize the Little Things
When life feels heavy, joy often hides in the small details. By romanticizing the ordinary, you turn everyday moments into small acts of care. Try:
Lighting a candle while you get ready for bed.
Putting on a playlist that lifts your mood while cooking dinner.
Drinking your coffee outside and soaking in the morning sun.
Using your favorite mug, pen, or blanket—those little touches matter.
These rituals don’t add more to your plate—they simply shift how you experience what you’re already doing.
Try Self-Care Stacking
This is one of my favorite tools because it makes self-care feel effortless. Self-care stacking is about layering small practices into your daily routine so you care for yourself without needing extra time. For example:
Listen to an uplifting podcast while driving or folding laundry.
Stretch or do deep breathing while your coffee brews.
Use skincare as a mindfulness moment instead of rushing through it.
Practice gratitude while brushing your teeth—think of three things you’re thankful for.
By weaving self-care into things you’re already doing, it stops feeling like a chore and starts feeling like a natural rhythm.
Give Yourself Permission
The hardest part of self-care isn’t usually the what, it’s the permission. We tell ourselves we don’t have the time, or that we’ll get to ourselves after everything else is done. But here’s the reality: there will always be more to do. If you wait until life slows down, you’ll be waiting forever.
Self-care doesn’t mean neglecting others. It means showing up for yourself so you can show up better for them. Mothering the mother—nurturing yourself with the same compassion you pour into your children and loved ones—isn’t selfish. It’s necessary.
The bottom line: Self-care doesn’t have to be big or expensive. It’s about the small, intentional choices you make each day to honor your needs and refill your cup. Start with the basics, romanticize your routines, and experiment with self-care stacking. And most importantly—give yourself permission to prioritize you.
Because you deserve to feel cared for, too.