Let’s be honest: If you’re a busy mom, you might not have as much time on your hands for every hobby you used to enjoy. Hobbying and downtime might look different now, but there are still plenty of ways to find time to wind down, release some energy, and get creative, even with energetic kiddos in the background.
Here are a few of my favorite hobbies that are realistic for busy moms:
Audiobooks & Podcasts
My favorite activity that can be taken on the go is listening to audiobooks and podcasts. If you’re a Spotify member, you get 15 hours of audiobooks free every month, and unlimited podcasts! I love this activity because it can be built into your everyday routine. Pop in headphones while you’re doing dishes or laundry, or listen during car rides. Plus, it’s an easy way to learn something new or just indulge in some self-care time listening to your favorite mystery or romance novels (without needing to use your hands).
Move Your Body
Yes, moving your body can absolutely be a hobby, and it’s such an important way to support both your mental and physical health as a mom. If getting out of the house feels doable, local gyms with childcare can be a game-changer. You get a little time to focus on yourself while your kids are safely nearby, which makes squeezing in a workout feel much more realistic.
If leaving the house isn’t happening today, there are so many great at-home options too. YouTube is full of free workout videos, from quick sessions you can fit in during nap time, to Mommy and Me workouts that let you get movement in while involving your little one. And when the weather is nice, stroller walks are one of the simplest ways to get fresh air and vitamin D. Check out local mom groups on Facebook that organize stroller walks to turn exercise into a social outing you actually look forward to!
Continuous Crafts
Continuous crafts or crafts you can start and come back to have become some of my favorite hobbies during this season of motherhood. And there are so many options to try out, like:
- Legos
- Textile crafts like crocheting and knitting
- Painting, coloring, and drawing
- Calligraphy
- Scrapbooking
- Jewelry making
- Puzzles
Find a craft that you can pick up during naptime or after your kids go to bed, and that you can put down and work on over time.
Hobbies With the Help of Little Hands
My son is a clinger, and I’m finding ways to enjoy hobbies that let him be included. Some activities you can try with your children might be:
- Baking or cooking
- Coloring together
- Gardening
- Nature walks
- Dance parties
- Making music
The beautiful thing is, these hobbies don’t have to look perfect or be “productive.” These moments may look messy, but they can become meaningful opportunities to connect with your children while doing something you enjoy.
No matter what season of motherhood you’re in, making space for hobbies that fit your real life is important. These small moments for yourself can help you reconnect, recharge, and bring a little more joy into your everyday routine.
