Hi mama,
When the baby finally drifts off for a nap, mums everywhere face the same impossible decision: What do I do with these precious 20–30 minutes?
Do I finally drink my coffee while it’s still hot? Do I speed through the laundry and dishes before the chaos begins again? Or do I just flop on the couch and scroll in peace?
If you’ve ever felt guilty no matter what you choose, you’re not alone. The truth is, every mum feels this tug-of-war between responsibilities, exhaustion, and the desperate need for just a moment to breathe. And the best part? There’s no “right” answer.
But if you want to use that little sliver of time to reset yourself (so you can handle the post-nap energy burst with a calmer heart), here are three simple self-care ideas that actually fit into a short nap window:
1. Breathe and Move a Little
You don’t need an hour of yoga or a fancy mat. Just stretch your arms overhead, roll your shoulders, or do a few deep breaths while standing by the window. Five minutes of gentle movement can clear your head and release some of the tension you didn’t even realise you were carrying.
2. Make Your Coffee (or Tea) a Ritual
Instead of chugging down that cold cup while folding laundry, take five minutes to reheat it (yes, you deserve it hot!) and actually sit down to enjoy it. Light a candle, put on a calming playlist, or sit in silence. Sometimes, this small act feels like a luxury spa session.
3. Pick One Small Joy
Read a few pages of a book, write a couple of lines in your journal, do a face mask, or just sit outside and listen to the birds. Whatever feels like a treat to you. Even 10 minutes can give your nervous system the reset it needs.
At the end of the day, you don’t need to “use the time wisely” — you need to use it in a way that makes you feel a little lighter. Because when baby wakes up ready to go, you’ll feel more ready, too.
And mums, let’s remind ourselves: a calmer, happier you is also a gift to your baby.
With love,
Renata (Ollie’s Mum)💛