Self-Care is a Form of Shukr: 10 Tips For New Moms

Summer is winding down, and before we know it, the cooler weather will arrive along with school runs. It’s also a beautiful season for reflection and hope. For busy moms with babies, young kids, or both, this seasonal shift is a great time to boost your self-care. Even small amounts can restore balance, bring joy, and ground us in gratitude. Let’s look at 10 self-care strategies or tips that you can add to your busy lifestyle.  

1. Embrace a Morning Reset.

Take five minutes each morning before the day begins for Quran, dhikir, journaling, or simply drinking tea or coffee before jumping into your routine. These few minutes of stillness can shift your entire mood and mindset.

2. Refresh your space with cozy Fall touches

Add some Fall décor to your living space. A soft, cozy blanket, a fall-scented candle for a sensory reset. New cushions or coasters in autumn tones can create a calming atmosphere.  Tiny upgrades can make your home feel comforting and new again.

3. Create and connect through crafts

Involve older kids in simple fall-themed crafts. For example, I took my granddaughter on a walk to collect leaves, and she glued them onto a sheet of paper (above photo) around an Ayat I had written:  

Not a Leaf falls but that he knows it. (Surah Al-Anam (6:59)

It was a quiet, creative project to remind my granddaughter that Allah knows everything. I still have her artwork on my fridge today. She’s now seven years old, and her art also reminds me how quickly time passes. Cherish the time you have when they’re young because they grow up in the blink of an eye.

4.  Spiritual care is self-care.

Gratitude and remembrance of Allah help to anchor you even on your busiest days. They bring perspective and balance.

And if you should count the favour of Allah, you could not enumerate them. 

(Surah Ibrahim 14:34)

You can never count the blessings of Allah because there are many. Make time for your five daily prayers to recharge throughout the day.  Spend a few minutes naming three blessings.

So remember me; I will remember you. (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:152)

If you’re unable to attend the masjid for Jummah prayers, try listening to a khutbah online while multitasking. Let these moments remind you that your connection with Allah is always within reach. Even during chaos. Print or note down a favourite quote or Ayat and put it on the fridge or inside a planner.

5. Prioritize rest and ask for help

Babies' irregular sleep patterns can disrupt your sleep patterns. Therefore, when your baby naps, you nap too. Accepting help or sneaking in a nap is important. Even if it’s only for 20 minutes.  A rested mom is a more present and aware one.

6. Walk and wonder

Exercise is important. While walking with baby and or young children, pause to notice the changing leaves and the fall flowers. Fresh air and sunshine can boost the mood.

So which of the favours of your Lord do you deny? (Surah Al Rahman 55:13)

Walking clears the mind, and these walks can become small moments of wonder, connection, and reflection on Allah’s signs in nature. Relaxation can also include deep breathing and a warm bath to help reduce stress.

 7. Nourish yourself

Moms often focus so much on feeding everyone, and you may forget to eat warm, wholesome meals that provide energy. Eat regular, balanced meals. Simple nutrient-rich foods like lentil soup, oatmeal, dates, and roasted veggies fuel you through the day. Eating well is self-care. Whether you’re nursing, chasing toddlers, or providing care for everyone, you deserve more than rushed meals. Remember to stay hydrated. Especially if you’re breastfeeding.

Sunnah Food – honey, dates, olives, and grapes for quick energy food.

9. Reconnect with your identity beyond motherhood

Take 10–15 minutes a week to do something just for you. That could be reading something inspiring, listening to a favorite nasheed, planning a creative project, or revisiting a hobby. Engage in activities you enjoy. It helps remind you that while motherhood is part of your identity, it’s not the only part.

10. Spend time with loved ones

Connect with friends and family members and have meaningful conversations, and enjoy your company. Connection is a form of self-care, so don’t underestimate how uplifting it can be to talk with someone who truly sees you. Whether it's sharing a laugh with your kids, calling a friend for a short chat, or sitting with family over tea, these moments nourish the heart. You don’t need fancy outings—just presence and warmth. Also, remember to limit visitors if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Set boundaries.

In conclusion, remember, your role as a mother is honoured in Islam. Through every late night, every small act, and every prayer made in between. You are seen.

Paradise lies under the feet of mothers. — Prophet Muhammad 

Take care of yourself not just for your own sake, but because you matter deeply in the lives of your children—and in the sight of Allah. Every small moment of self-care is an act of strength and gratitude.

What do you do for self-care?

To celebrate the change of seasons, I’m offering an End-of-Season Sale on my bestselling fall baby bottle covers. If you’ve been thinking about getting one, now’s the perfect time to treat yourself (or a loved one) with something handmade and special.

🎉 End of Season Sale – 15% OFF Baby Bottle Covers with Code: MOMTIME15

Celebrate fall’s arrival with a meaningful treat for yourself or someone you love.
Use code : MOMTIME15 at checkout on DecarloMatano for 15% off handmade fall/winter baby bottle covers - Custom-made to fit your bottle brand.

And while you’re on the website, be sure to join my newsletter for more self-care tips, encouragement, and exclusive offers created just for new moms. 💜

📅 Valid August 17–September 14, 2025