Self-Care for Moms: A Transformative Journey

Updated: August 13, 2015
Originally Published: July 22, 2012

Reflecting on the carefree days of being a single woman without children can bring a smile. Back then, prioritizing your appearance and mental health was a breeze. Let’s explore the evolution of self-pampering from those days to the present.

Vacationing: Then and Now

Then: Picture yourself enjoying a vibrant week in Cabo with friends, soaking up the sun at a luxurious resort, and relishing the nightlife. Your return was filled with souvenirs, a sun-kissed glow, and stories you’d keep sacred.

Now: A rare night out consists of a couple of hours at a casual Mexican restaurant while your parents babysit. The thrill? Maybe indulging in a few margaritas before stopping for overpriced cigarettes. Spending ten dollars on a whim feels like a wild adventure!

Shopping: The Shift

Then: Hours were spent browsing for chic work outfits, the latest trends, and that perfect little black dress.

Now: A trip to Target for diapers may lead to an impulsive grab of random clothes that may or may not fit.

Salon Visits: A New Routine

Then: Every six to eight weeks, you treated yourself to highlights and stylish cuts, often accompanied by a glass of wine or coffee.

Now: You hide scissors in a box of maxi pads and give yourself a bang trim during nap time. For special occasions, boxed hair color is your go-to.

Manicures and Pedicures: A Distant Memory

Then: Saturdays were reserved for nail salon visits with your best friend, complete with acrylic fills and artistic designs.

Now: You relish the rare occasion when your husband takes the kids out, allowing you a moment of peace.

Spa Days: Creative Alternatives

Then: You and your friends would indulge in massages, facials, and refreshing drinks at a spa.

Now: After a nap refusal from your toddler, you drive around until he falls asleep, finding a quiet spot by the river to enjoy a magazine—until he wakes up after just 30 seconds. No yoga here, but a quick hit from some stale cigarettes found in the glove compartment and a chug of Vitamin water might suffice.

Being Pampered by Your Partner: A Shift in Dynamics

Then: Romantic gestures included spa days followed by intimate evenings.

Now: The highlight is when your partner allows you to enjoy a few uninterrupted beers.

Exercise: From Intense to Practical

Then: An hour-long cycling class followed by ab workouts was your norm.

Now: You find yourself in day two of the Three Day Potty Training method.

Massage: An Unexpected Approach

Then: You’d enjoy tranquil massages in serene environments.

Now: When your toddler throws a fit, you might just use him as a makeshift massager for that hard-to-reach spot between your shoulder blades. “Mommy is sorry, but can you aim a little left?”

Therapy: Budget Cuts

Then: Regular therapy sessions helped you understand your past and improve your future.

Now: With budget constraints, you find yourself blocking negative friends on social media instead.

In conclusion, motherhood transforms the way we pamper ourselves. While the indulgences may look different now, they are often replaced with moments of creativity and resourcefulness. For more insights on family planning and home insemination, check out this post. If you’re looking for resources on artificial insemination, Make a Mom is also an excellent authority on the topic. For further understanding of treatments and what to expect during your journey, refer to this guideline.