Finding Rest in the Midst of a Busy Mom Life

For many moms, the word “rest” can feel like a distant dream. With all the responsibilities of motherhood—from school drop-offs and meal prep to work and maintaining a household—it can seem like there’s no time left for anything else, let alone rest. But here’s the thing: rest isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential.

Finding rest in the midst of a busy mom life doesn’t mean neglecting responsibilities—it means learning to care for ourselves so that we can show up for the people we love with renewed energy and patience.

Why Rest Matters

Rest isn’t just about sleep, though that’s important, too. Rest is about creating space for mental, emotional and physical renewal. Without rest, we can quickly become overwhelmed, irritable and disconnected from the things and people that matter most.

When we take time to rest, we’re able to recharge and come back to our families with more presence and joy. Rest helps us think clearly, be more patient and enjoy motherhood in a deeper, more meaningful way.

Small Ways to Find Rest in a Busy Schedule

Rest doesn’t require hours of free time (though that would be nice!). Here are a few simple ways to incorporate rest into a busy day:

Take Five-Minute Breaks.
Even a five-minute break can make a big difference. When feeling overwhelmed, step outside for fresh air, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, or enjoy a hot cup of tea in a quiet space. These small breaks help reset the mind and body.
Prioritize Sleep.
While it’s easy to push sleep to the back burner, especially when there’s so much to do, getting enough rest is vital for physical and mental health. Set a bedtime and stick to it as often as possible. Creating a calming bedtime routine can also make falling asleep easier.
Practice Being Present.
In Matthew 6:34, Scripture tells us to focus on the present. Whether it’s during a morning routine, while driving, or even in the middle of a chaotic day, taking a moment to breathe deeply and focus on the present can bring a sense of calm and restfulness.
Say No (and Mean It).
One of the most powerful ways to create space for rest is by saying no to commitments that aren’t essential. It’s okay to decline an invitation or let go of something that doesn’t bring joy. Saying no allows us to protect our energy and time for the things that matter most.
Create a Quiet Corner.
Designate a space in the home as a “rest corner.” It doesn’t have to be fancy—just a cozy chair or a spot where it’s easy to relax. Use this space for reading, Bible study, journaling, or simply taking a few moments of peace during a busy day.

Rest as a Form of Self-Care

Self-care is often thought of as a luxury, but it’s actually a necessity, especially for moms. Rest is one of the most important forms of self-care because it nourishes our bodies and minds. Without rest, it’s hard to be fully present with our families, and it’s easy to feel burnt out.

Self-care doesn’t have to mean expensive spa days or long vacations. It can be as simple as making time for rest in the midst of everyday life. By prioritizing rest, we are not only taking care of ourselves but also modeling healthy habits for our children.

Embracing Rest Without Guilt

Many moms struggle with feeling guilty about taking time for themselves, but the truth is, rest isn’t selfish. It’s essential for being the best mom, partner and person we can be. When we take care of ourselves, we’re better able to care for the people we love. We can be reassured by the importance of rest shown in Scripture. Remember, on the seventh day of creation, God himself rested. God recognizes the importance of rest following hard work.

Letting go of guilt and embracing rest is a powerful step toward living a more balanced, joyful life. It’s about recognizing that we are worthy of rest and that taking time to recharge allows us to give more fully to our families.

A Few Simple Rest Rituals

To help incorporate more rest into busy days, consider adopting a few simple rest rituals. These small, intentional moments can make a big difference in how we feel throughout the day.

Morning Calm: Start the day with a few minutes of quiet prayer, reflection, stretching or deep breathing before the hustle begins.

Lunchtime Break: Take a short break during lunch to step outside, sit in silence, or listen to calming music.

Evening Wind-Down: Create a bedtime routine that helps signal to the body that it’s time to rest—whether it’s reading, taking a warm bath, or dimming the lights.

Rest is a Gift to Ourselves and Our Families

Moms are often the last ones to rest, but rest is a gift we can give to ourselves and our families. By taking time to recharge, we are better able to show up with love, energy and joy. It’s not about doing everything perfectly; it’s about finding a balance that allows us to care for ourselves as we care for others.

So, let’s embrace rest, even in the busiest of seasons. Because when we rest, we create space for renewal, connection, and more joyful motherhood.