Introduction

Let’s be honest—between work, kids, household responsibilities, and everything in between, finding time for self-care can feel impossible. You know you should take care of yourself, but who has the time?

Here’s the good news: self-care doesn’t have to take hours. In fact, just 10 minutes a day can help you reset, recharge, and show up as your best self.

If you’ve been feeling drained and stretched thin, this simple 10-minute self-care routine is exactly what you need. It’s designed to fit into even the busiest schedule—no guilt, no stress, just small but powerful actions that will leave you feeling more centered, calm, and refreshed.

Ready? Let’s dive in.

The 10-Minute Self-Care Routine

Even if you only have a few minutes to yourself, this routine will help you feel more energized and present. You can do it first thing in the morning, during a quick break, or whenever you need a reset.

Minute 1-2: Deep Breathing & Reset

Start by taking three deep, intentional breaths. Close your eyes (if possible) and inhale deeply through your nose, filling your lungs. Exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing any tension.

Try this: Box breathing (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4). This simple technique calms your nervous system and instantly reduces stress.

🔹 Why it works: Deep breathing helps lower stress hormones and increases oxygen flow, helping you feel more relaxed and focused.

Minute 3-5: Gentle Movement & Stretching

Your body holds onto stress, so a few minutes of movement can make a huge difference.

Try these quick yoga-inspired stretches:
✅ Neck Rolls – Gently roll your head in a circular motion to release tension.
✅ Cat-Cow Stretch – If you’re near a chair or floor, move your spine through a gentle arch and round.
✅ Forward Fold – Stand up, bend forward, and let your arms dangle to release back tension.

🔹 Why it works: Stretching boosts circulation, relieves stiffness, and helps you feel more energized.

Minute 6-7: Hydration & Mindful Sipping

Most moms run on caffeine and forget about hydration, but your body and mind need water to function at their best.

Grab a glass of water, take slow sips, and be fully present. Notice the sensation of drinking, and remind yourself: This is an act of self-care.

🔹 Why it works: Proper hydration improves mood, energy, and focus while preventing burnout.

Minute 8-9: Positive Self-Talk & Gratitude

Take a moment to shift your mindset with a positive affirmation or gratitude practice.

Choose one of these affirmations (or create your own!):
💛 I am worthy of care and kindness—especially from myself.
💛 I am doing my best, and that is enough.
💛 I choose to give myself grace and love today.

Alternatively, list three things you’re grateful for. This simple habit rewires your brain to focus on the good, even during busy or stressful moments.

🔹 Why it works: Practicing gratitude and positive self-talk boosts self-love and reduces stress.

Minute 10: Intention-Setting for the Day

Before you wrap up, set an intention for how you want to show up today.

Ask yourself:
👉 How do I want to feel today? (e.g., calm, patient, energized)
👉 What’s one small way I can care for myself today?

Choose one word or a simple phrase to guide your mindset. Examples:
✨ Peace
✨ Grace
✨ Joy
✨ Presence

🔹 Why it works: Setting an intention helps you stay mindful and aligned with what truly matters.

Closing Thoughts: Small Self-Care Moments Add Up

You don’t need an hour-long spa day to practice self-care. Sometimes, all it takes is 10 minutes to shift your mood, re-energize your body, and refill your cup.

Try this routine daily, even if you can only do a few steps. The more consistent you are, the more natural self-care will feel.

💬 What’s one step from this routine that you’ll try today?

And if you’re looking for more simple self-care strategies, check out my Yoga for Self-Care Online membership, where I help busy moms create calm moments in their everyday lives—no overwhelm, just real self-care that works.

Meet Your Guide

Shauna Hay-Viets, a mom of two and a yoga instructor with 13+ years of experience. Shauna specializes in teaching busy moms how to reduce stress and create balance through yoga and mindfulness. Shauna has a passion for helping her students achieve their greatest goals on and off the mat.