Summer often feels like a rollercoaster of sunscreen, snack bags, and screaming kids in swimsuits. And if you’re anything like me, you’re probably running the show—packing lunches, planning road trips, refereeing backyard arguments, and trying to soak in the moments while secretly daydreaming about five quiet minutes to yourself.
But here’s the truth that we too often forget: you matter too. And this summer, you don’t need to earn rest or justify joy. You get to care for your soul while loving your people well. It’s not selfish—it’s sacred.
Give Yourself Permission to Be Human
Let’s start here: your needs are not a burden. You are not required to be everything to everyone every second of the day. You are allowed to sit down, take a deep breath, and choose rest. Even Jesus stepped away from the crowds to pray and refuel. If He needed space, so do you.
Try this: Write yourself a permission slip. “I give myself permission to rest, to laugh, to say no, and to savor summer without guilt.” Post it up on the refrigerator for a gentle reminder.
Create a Self-Care Rhythm, Not a Checklist
You don’t need another list of “10 things to do for self-care” that becomes yet another to-do list. Think rhythms, not routines. Gentle patterns that flow with your family’s pace and leave space for grace.
Some of my favorites 5 minute breaks include my morning coffee and five minutes in the Word (I use the Bible app which has a devotional and a verse of the day), an afternoon walk while the kids rest or watch a show (even if it is just a few circles around the backyard) and a no-phone hour (with tv or reading a book) before bed. It helps me wind down and de-stress.
Start small. Build in quiet pauses that refill your cup so you’re not running on empty by mid-July.
Involve Your Family in the Process
What if self-care wasn’t something you had to escape for? What if it was something modeled, shared, and celebrated?
Let your kids see you journaling or coloring. Invite them to stretch on the lawn with you or listen to music together. Show them that caring for your soul is part of a healthy life—not an afterthought.
Start a weekly “Mom & Me Check-In” where everyone shares one way they’re taking care of their heart that week. Use my Free weekly check in sheet Download HERE.
Say No Without Explaining
You don’t need to attend every BBQ, run every VBS, or host the neighborhood water day. It’s okay to protect your sanity. When you say “no” to the extra, you’re saying “yes” to more peace, presence, and family time.
Lean on God Daily (Not Just When You’re at Your Breaking Point)
Summer can feel unstructured and overwhelming. The days are longer, but your patience isn’t. Centering your heart each day with Scripture and prayer grounds your soul in truth, especially when the chaos hits.
Try meditating on this verse all week:
“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Click HERE for a Bible Verse printable
Have Fun (Yes, You)
Fun isn’t just for the kids. When was the last time you did something just because you enjoyed it?
Read a book in the hammock, paint your toenails a fun bright color, watch your favorite teen rom-com or make a summer playlist and dance while doing dishes.
Kids remember fun and time together. These moments are what you will look back on.
Let This Be the Summer You Don’t Burn Out
You are allowed to rest without guilt. You can enjoy your life and still be a great mom. In fact, when your cup is full, your love overflows in a more joyful, patient, and peace-filled way.
So this summer, care for you. Without guilt. Without overthinking. Just with grace, joy, and a whole lot of iced coffee.
Want help getting started? Download my Summer Self-Care Check-In Printable for moms, teens, and kids. It includes journaling prompts, space for reflection, and a gentle weekly rhythm to help you prioritize what matters most—your heart. Download it here
Amber has a BA in Psychology and a Masters Degree in Human Resources. She spent 9 years working in youth and multi-generational ministry where she focused on making faith fun. Her book, The Beginner’s Guide to God, is for anyone wondering how to have a relationship with God. She is the author of the blog AuburnRaven – Balancing Faith, Family & Fun. She has a passion for introducing people to God’s love and biblically equipping parents and teachers so children can grow in faith. Her journey, tips and lessons can be found on her blog www.AuburnRaven.com. You can connect with her on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook.
We may earn money from the products/companies mentioned in this post. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, read our Terms & Disclosures.
