There’s something beautiful happening lately. A quiet shift.
More and more women are leaning into a slower, more intentional way of life—not because it’s trendy, but because it’s healing. In a world that feels louder and more demanding than ever, slowing down feels like an act of peace. Of rebellion, even.
If you’re a mama craving less hustle and more presence, this post is for you. Here are 8 gentle ways to embrace slow living—right in the middle of motherhood.
1. Create Rhythms, Not Rigid Schedules
Instead of trying to stick to a minute-by-minute routine, think in terms of daily rhythms. Morning cuddles, afternoon quiet time, evening wind-downs. Rhythms offer structure with room for grace—because let’s be real, no two days with kids are ever the same. And that’s okay!
A gentle rhythm allows you to adapt without feeling like you’ve failed if something doesn’t go exactly as planned. As your kids grow and their needs change, so will your rhythms. This flexibility fosters connection and reduces the stress that comes with rigid expectations.
2. Savor Mealtimes
Even if it’s just 15 minutes around the table, treat it like a moment. Light a candle. Use the “nice” plates. Invite your kids into the experience. Meals can be sacred—they don’t have to be fancy to feel special.
Tip: Try putting the phones away during dinner. Create a space where everyone can be present, sharing not just food but also stories from their day. Even a simple dinner becomes meaningful when you focus on the moment.
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3. Say No More Often
Protect your peace. That might look like fewer playdates, less running around, or saying no to one more commitment. Your family doesn’t need constant stimulation—they need a calm, present you.
Learning to say “no” can feel hard, especially for moms who want to please everyone. But saying no is an act of self-care and family care. When you say no to things that drain your energy, you create room for the things that matter most: connection, joy, and presence.
4. Go Analog
Handwritten grocery lists. A paper planner. Real books. There’s something grounding about doing things the “old-fashioned” way. It slows us down just enough to notice life happening in between.
Research shows that reducing screen time and reconnecting with analog activities can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Something as simple as writing out a to-do list on paper or flipping through the pages of a good book helps bring you back to the present.
5. Celebrate Small Things
The muffins you baked. The sun pouring through the window. A load of laundry folded while your baby naps. These are the moments that make up a life. Don’t wait for big milestones—celebrate the sacred ordinary.
Many times, we wait for big moments to feel gratitude, but it’s the little things that add up to the bigger picture. Being intentional about celebrating these small things can make you more mindful of life’s beauty, right where you are.
6. Limit Scroll Time
It’s so easy to fall into the rabbit hole of social media. Set boundaries for yourself and replace screen time with something that restores you—whether it’s a walk, journaling, prayer, or a cup of coffee in silence.
We all know how easy it is to lose hours scrolling through endless feeds. But studies show that reducing screen time, especially before bed, leads to better sleep quality and improved mental health. Consider setting boundaries with your phone and creating phone-free zones or times in your day. This will give you more space for meaningful activities and real-world connections.
7. Romanticize Homemaking
Play soft music while you do the dishes. Light a seasonal candle in the kitchen. Put flowers in a jar by the sink. Small touches of beauty can transform the way your home feels—to you and your family.
Homemaking is often thought of as “chores,” but it can be so much more when you approach it with intention. Simple changes, like lighting a candle while cleaning or using beautiful bowls to serve a meal, can transform ordinary tasks into small rituals that feel more special.
8. Teach Your Kids to Join You
Slow living isn’t something you do alone—it becomes a family rhythm. Invite your kids to help stir the soup, water the plants, fold the napkins. It might take longer, but it’s worth it. You’re raising hearts, not just checking boxes.
Involving your kids in the process of everyday life is a great way to slow down and teach them the beauty of simple tasks. It also fosters teamwork, patience, and a sense of accomplishment. Plus, they’ll remember those moments of connection far longer than they’ll remember any rushed day.
The Power of Simple Hobbies
In addition to embracing slow living at home, another powerful way to nurture this lifestyle is by carving out time for simple hobbies. Often, we feel we need to engage in complex or grand activities to feel fulfilled. But, taking time for simple, mindful hobbies—like knitting, journaling, gardening, or painting—can have a profound impact on our well-being.
Studies show that engaging in a creative hobby can reduce stress, boost mood, and even improve cognitive function. These hobbies don’t require a lot of time, but they can offer deep fulfillment. Not only do you get to unwind and enjoy the process, but you also gain a sense of accomplishment that’s uniquely your own. For moms, this can be especially healing—giving you space to reconnect with yourself outside of motherhood.
Slow living isn’t always easy, especially in a world that glorifies hustle. But it is always worth it. The goal isn’t to be perfect—it’s to be present.
So light the candle. Sit down for the meal. Pause and notice what’s good.
You don’t need to do more to live a beautiful life—you just need to see what’s already here. 🤍
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