Summer Self-care for Moms: 20 Quick and Easy

Summer can be a whirlwind for moms. Between keeping the kids entertained, managing meals, and squeezing in family adventures. It’s easy to forget about yourself. But self-care doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. In fact, this season is the perfect time to slow down, soak in the sunshine, and give yourself a little extra love. Whether you have five minutes or an hour, these 20 simple and refreshing self-care ideas are here to help you recharge, reconnect.

Quick and easy self-care ideas:

Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea outside before the kids wake up:

Start your morning with a quiet moment and a warm cup of coffee on the porch. It’s a simple way to soak in some peace before the busy day begins.

Put on a refreshing face mask while doing some chores:

Multitasking never felt so good! Treat yourself to a refreshing face mask while tackling chores. It’s the perfect way to sneak in some self-care while folding those endless piles of laundry. I love how it turns a mundane task into a mini spa moment. Bonus: soft skin and an empty laundry basket!

Listen to your favorite upbeat playlist or podcast:

Starting my day with an upbeat playlist or a fun podcast is an absolute must. It sets the tone and gives me that little boost of energy I need to keep up with the day. Lately, I’ve been loving Kylie Kelce’s podcast “Not Gonna Lie”. It’s hilarious, real, and totally relatable. It’s like catching up with a funny friend while getting things done!

Relaxing at home ideas:

Take a bath with Epsom salts:

A warm bath with Epsom salt is one of my favorite ways to unwind after a long day. The magnesium in Epsom salt can help relax sore muscles, ease stress, and even improve sleep. Exactly what busy moms need (I know I do!).

Paint your nails a bright summer color:

Painting your nails a fun, bright summer color is such an easy way to boost your mood. It’s a quick self-care win that adds a little pop of joy to your day every time you look down.

Watch a feel-good movie during naptime:

Rainy afternoons were made for cozying up with your favorite movie during naptime. There’s something magical about sneaking in a little “me time” while the house is quiet. Whether it’s a rom-com you’ve seen a dozen times or that movie you’ve been saving, it’s the perfect way to relax and recharge. Don’t forget the popcorn!

Take a power nap guilt-free:

Lately, taking a guilt-free power nap has been one of my favorite forms of self-care. I lay the younger two down and join them. Just 20–30 minutes of rest makes such a difference in my energy and mood. No guilt, just peace and a little extra strength to finish the day strong.

Read a few chapters of a fiction book just for fun:

Lately, I’ve been loving the simple joy of reading a few chapters of a non-fiction book just for fun. Even if it’s only for 10 minutes, it helps me shift gears and focus on something I enjoy.

Creative Boost:

Start a simple craft or DIY project:

If you love doing crafts, pick one of those DIY projects you’ve pinned and finally give it a try. If you’re like me, you’ve probably saved a ton on Pinterest and just need that little push to start. It’s a fun and creative way to unwind and do something just for you!

Adult coloring or Paint by numbers:

After a busy summer day, winding down with adult coloring or a paint-by-numbers kit is the perfect way to relax. Not only does it help quiet your mind, but it also gives you a creative outlet without any pressure. Best of all, it’s something you can look forward to just for you.

Begin a gratitude or Summer memory journal:

Starting a gratitude journal is a simple yet powerful way to care for your mental well-being. Just jotting down a few things you’re thankful for each day can shift your mindset and boost your mood.

Bake something just for yourself:

Baking something just for yourself is a sweet and simple way to practice self-care. Break-and-bake cookies make it easy—fresh, warm, and ready in minutes for that little treat you totally deserve.

Outdoor summer self-care:

Take a solo walk with no agenda:

Taking a solo walk with a good playlist is the perfect summer self-care for busy moms. It’s a chance to clear your mind, enjoy the fresh air, and feel like you again, even if just for a little while.

Watch the sunrise or sunset:

Take a moment out on the deck or porch to enjoy the sunset or the sunrise. Watching the sunset on the deck is one of my personal favorites.

Read or Relax in a hammock:

Reading in the hammock has become my favorite self-care time this summer. It’s peaceful, comfy, and the perfect way to sneak in a little “me time” during nap time. I’ve been working on my reading ABC challenge, so each book feels like a fun accomplishment. There’s just something about swinging gently with a good story in hand that makes the day feel a little lighter.

Time for you Self-care:

Set a boundary for one day of no chores:

This is another great selfcare idea that I will be doing. We all deserve a day off of fun and no chores! For me this will be Mondays when it’s just me and the kids at home.

Book a massage, pedicure or facial (even if it’s just a DIY at home):

Booking that pedicure or massage…even if it’s at home. It’s a great way to commit to self-care. When it’s on the calendar, you’re more likely to protect that time and actually enjoy it. You deserve to feel relaxed and refreshed!

Plan a “mom afternoon off” even if it’s just two hours:

Planning a “mom afternoon off” is one of the best forms of self-care, especially for stay-at-home moms. For me, Friday afternoons are ideal while my two littles are napping, and my husband is home from work. So, I sneak out for a coffee and run a few errands solo, which feels like such a treat. Even just a couple of hours to yourself can make a big difference in how refreshed and recharged you feel.

Watch your favorite show with snacks uninterrupted:

Another great self-care idea is catching up on the shows on your watch list once the kids are in bed. Not only is it a fun way to unwind, but it’s also the perfect time to enjoy your favorite snacks. No sharing required!

Stargaze or have a quiet backyard moment after bedtime:

After a long summer day, grab a blanket and head outside to look up at the stars. It’s a peaceful and grounding way to unwind, especially when the world finally quiets down. Plus, it’s a beautiful reminder to slow down and just be for a moment.

ENJOY YOUR TIME

We hope these 20 quick and simple summer self-care ideas inspire you to carve out a little time for yourself this season. Whether it’s five minutes or a full afternoon, every bit of care you give yourself matters. You deserve it, mama! Don’t forget to share your favorite idea from the list or let us know what self-care looks like for you this summer in the comments!

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