15 Quick and Easy Ways For Moms to Have More Me Time in 2018

As soon as you welcome a new baby into your home, one thing's for sure: all that time you had for yourself prekid goes straight out the window. Even though it's easy to feel guilty for taking an hour — or even a few minutes — for yourself with a bunch of little ones running amok, self-care is extremely important for moms. And there's no better time to start incorporating some me time into your routine than the impending new year. We challenge busy mamas everywhere to take the classic "new year, new me" mantra to the next level by making yourself a priority. Here's a list of helpful ways to get more me time without breaking the bank.

01
Exercise, Exercise, Exercise!
Unsplash user Christopher Campbell

Exercise, Exercise, Exercise!

The first step in making yourself a priority this year is taking care of the only body you have, even if you can only work out for a few minutes each day.

02
Have your partner (or sitter) watch the kids while you take a long bath.
Unsplash user Karla Alexander

Have your partner (or sitter) watch the kids while you take a long bath.

Sometimes some time spent in hot water does the trick. Don't forget your bath bomb!

03
Schedule a monthly girls' night out.
Unsplash user Kelsey Knight

Schedule a monthly girls' night out.

Even though moms are known for their crazy schedules (and sleepless nights!), meeting once a month for a glass of wine or coffee can go a long way. After all, it's nice to talk to grown-ups every once in a while, right?

04
Start meditating.
Unsplash user Ben Blennerhassett

Start meditating.

Try out this three-minute meditation to calm your mind.

05
Join a book club.
Jacalyn Beales

Join a book club.

Escaping reality through a good book can make you feel completely refreshed. And if you can't commit to a full-on book club just yet, start with a light page-turner (read: steamy romance novel).

06
Buy a houseplant.
POPSUGAR Photography | Adrian Busse

Buy a houseplant.

They're super cute to look at and can even help you sleep better. Anything helps, right?

08
Spend some quality time with your pet.
Unsplash user Santiago Esquivel

Spend some quality time with your pet.

It's a well-known fact that your furry friend is a huge stress-reliever.

09
Call someone you love.
Unsplash user Matthew Kane

Call someone you love.

Sometimes connecting with the people we love who don't live with us takes a back seat in our daily routines. Pick up the phone and check in with a friend you haven't heard from in a few weeks.

10
Treat yourself to something cozy.
Unsplash user boram kim

Treat yourself to something cozy.

Buy yourself a chunky new sweater, a thick blanket, or that pair of slippers you've been eyeing.

11
Make a playlist of your favorite songs.
Unsplash user NeONBRAND

Make a playlist of your favorite songs.

Having a go-to list of songs can help you unwind, whether you're picking up the playroom or putting on makeup for the first time in a month.

12
Cook your favorite meal.
Unsplash user Chinh Le Duc

Cook your favorite meal.

Because eating solely boxed mac and cheese and chicken nuggets is no way to live.

13
Make time for a hobby.
Unsplash user Kris Atomic

Make time for a hobby.

It may not be easy, but doing something you find interesting all by yourself can give you new life. Love to sew? Take a class at your local fabric store.

14
Don't sweat the small stuff.
Unsplash User Catt Liu

Don't sweat the small stuff.

Rather than obsessing over the dishes getting washed and put away before bed or insisting the laundry is perfectly folded on Sunday afternoon, watch a movie with your partner and leave the chores for the following day. No one dies from the occasional plate left in the sink.

15
Schedule a regular manicure.
Unsplash user Kris Atomic

Schedule a regular manicure.

It can make all the difference in the world.