Becoming a mother is a beautiful journey, but it can also feel overwhelming. Finding time for yourself, even for simple things like taking a shower, can feel like a challenge. However, mums' self-care is essential—not just for you, but for your little one too. Babies absorb the moods and behaviours around them, so when you feel good, they benefit too.
Amazingly, The University of Cambridge found that mothers’ and babies’ brains are ‘more in tune’ when the mother is happy. When a mother expresses more positive emotions, her brain connects more strongly with her baby’s brain.
Dr Vicky Leong, who led the study, says, “From our previous work, we know that when the neural connection between mothers and babies is strong, babies are more receptive and ready to learn from their mothers. At this stage of life, the baby brain has the ability to change significantly, and these changes are driven by the baby’s experiences. By using a positive emotional tone during social interactions, parents can connect better with their infants, and stimulate development of their baby’s mental capacity.”
7 things you can do to prioritise yourself
Even if time feels scarce right now, prioritising self-care for mums is crucial. Here are some simple ways to look after yourself:
1. Ask for help
Some days, you’re constantly on the go with no time to pause. It’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s your partner, family, friends, or even a neighbour, reaching out can make all the difference. Whether you need 30 minutes to yourself or help with an errand, don’t be afraid to ask.
Many of us hesitate to ask for help, but humans are wired to want to give help. It feels good to support others and strengthens our connections. Accepting help is a form of self-care for mums, and there’s no shame in it.
2. Eat well
When caring for a newborn, eating well often takes a backseat. Skipping meals or grabbing quick, less nutritious options can leave you feeling drained. But fuelling your body with good food is a key part of mums' self-care.
Consider easy solutions like nutritious ready-made meals delivered to your door, or cook extra portions to freeze for later. Soups, casseroles, and batch-cooked meals are lifesavers when time is short.
Here are some gut-friendly meals that are easy to prepare.
3. Get outside and breathe fresh air
A simple walk with your baby in the stroller can work wonders. Fresh air, nature, and movement help lower stress, improve energy, and support overall wellbeing.
A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Health Research found that visiting a park for just 20 minutes improved participants’ subjective well-being. As a mum, making small moments for self-care can make a big difference.
4. Organise a playdate
Meeting up with other parents and little ones for a playdate is great for both mums and babies. Whether at a friend’s house, a park, or a play centre, an hour of social time can lift your spirits.
Playdates provide a chance to connect with other adults, share experiences, and support one another. Taking turns hosting makes it even easier.
5. Sleep whenever you can
Your baby is finally asleep—now what? It’s tempting to catch up on chores, but what your body truly needs is rest. Mums' self-care includes prioritising sleep when possible.
A short nap, even just an hour, can boost your energy levels and help you feel refreshed.
6. Organise (and accept) home help
Looking after a baby means other responsibilities may pile up. If possible, lighten your load by arranging home help. Whether it’s a cleaning service, a friend helping with meals, or someone lending a hand with the laundry, every bit helps.
Self-care for mums isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Prioritising yourself helps you feel better, and when you feel good, so does your little one. So take that break, step outside, and embrace small, micro moments of self-care. You deserve it!
