5 Things That Will Transform Your Day As a Stay-At-Home Mother

As a stay at home mom, no one, other than God, has as big of an impact on your day as you do.

So despite the fact that sometimes our days can feel a bit overwhelming, exhausting, and, at times, maybe even a little chaotic, you are the one that sets the tone for your day and for your home. Small, intentional changes can have a massive impact on how you feel, both physically and emotionally, as you go about your day.

If you’re craving more energy, mental clarity, and a sense of calm amidst the daily hustle, these five simple practices can truly transform your day:

1. Get Ready for the Day (Even if You’re Not Going Anywhere)

It might seem like a small thing, but getting dressed and ready each morning sets the tone for your entire day. When you stay in pajamas, your brain stays in “rest mode,” which can subtly drain your motivation and focus.

Something as simple as putting on an outfit and doing your hair (I’m obsessed with the heatless curls trend right now) can signal to your mind that you’re ready to show up, not just for your family, but for yourself.

2. Move Your Body (In a Way That Feels Good)

You don’t need an hour-long workout or fancy equipment. Simple, consistent movement can shift your energy, boost your mood, and help regulate your stress hormones. Think:

• An easy to follow program like Nourish Move Love

• A quick dance party with your kids

• A 30 minute walk around the block with your kids

Movement doesn’t have to be perfect or pretty—it just needs to happen. The key is consistency. Moving your body daily, even briefly, can have a big impact on your energy levels and mood. Studies have even shown that positive effects that morning workouts can have on your mood for the following TWELVE hours (that’s all day long!)

3. Never Skip Meals (Your Energy Depends on It) and Nutrient-Rich Drinks

It’s easy to fall into the habit of grabbing coffee and snacks throughout the day while skipping proper meals. But here’s the thing: your body needs consistent fuel to keep up with the demands of your day.

Skipping meals can lead to blood sugar crashes, mood swings, brain fog, and that dreaded afternoon slump. Prioritize balanced meals with protein, healthy fats, and fiber to sustain your energy.

Likewise, having nutrient-rich drinks that you look forward to and enjoy can be an added bonus and pick-me-up throughout your day. Some options to consider:

• Mineral-rich herbal teas: my favorites are from Michelle’s Well Herbal Teas (Code GRACE10 for discount - she opens her shop the 1st week of every month for a restock!)

  • Try the Womb Wellness, Relax Child, or Wellness Blend, a few of my favorites!

• Mineral Mocktails: currently loving equal parts coconut water and pomegranate juice with 1/4 tsp sea salt (pomegranate juice is less likely to spike blood sugar as opposed to other juices like Orange Juice)

• Bone broth for gut health and immune support

  • Try Fallon’s Bone Broth Hot Chocolate Recipe here!

• Smoothies packed with fiber, healthy fats, + protein

  • Fruity: organic strawberries, banana, organic full fat coconut milk, + Perfect Supplements Collagen (code GRACESHEPARD10 for discount)

  • Savory: Equip Chocolate Protein (discount automatically applied, but code is GRACESHEPARDWELLNESS), Banana, Organic Peanut Butter, Organic Whole Milk, Ice (tip: mix everything but the protein first, then add protein and blend for a few seconds - this prevents it from getting super frothy!)

4. Take Every Opportunity to Bring God into Your Day

Amidst the busyness of motherhood, it's easy to feel disconnected from your spiritual life. But nurturing your relationship with God doesn’t require hours of quiet time (though that’s wonderful if you can find it!). Instead, weave moments of connection throughout your day:

• Say a quick prayer while folding laundry, thanking God for the individual whose clothes you’re folding

• Read a short scripture or devotional with your kids

• Play worship music in the background as you go about your daily tasks

• Pray over your children as you put them down for nap or bedtime

• Thank God for the gift of dirty dishes, because dirty dishes means mouths were fed and meals enjoyed

Inviting God into the ordinary moments helps anchor your heart and provides peace amongst the chaos.

5. Prioritize an Early Bedtime (Your Sleep Is Sacred!)

I get it—those quiet hours after the kids are in bed feel like the only time you have to yourself. But consistently staying up late can rob you of the deep, restorative sleep your body desperately needs.

Aim to get to bed earlier, even if it’s just 30 minutes sooner. Create a calming bedtime routine: dim the lights, put your phone away, and allow your body to wind down. Quality sleep improves everything—your mood, energy, patience, and even your metabolism. The body does best when asleep by 10pm at the latest!

As a Reminder - You Deserve to Feel Good, Too

Motherhood isn’t just about surviving the day—it’s about finding rhythms that help you thrive. These five habits aren’t about adding more to your already full plate; they’re about making small shifts that support your well-being.

You deserve to feel energized, nourished, and whole. Start with one habit (I’d start with #4 if I were you!), build from there, and watch how your days begin to transform, one simple change at a time.