We’ve all been there. You wake up already feeling the weight of the day ahead—laundry, school runs, deadlines, meetings, dishes, and somehow figuring out what’s for dinner (again). But when evening rolls around, instead of feeling accomplished, you’re wondering: What did I even do today?
If this sounds familiar, you’re definitely not alone.
Time has a way of slipping through our fingers, especially in the messy, beautiful chaos of motherhood. And as moms with real lives —it can feel almost impossible to squeeze in something as seemingly “extra” as a yoga practice or even five quiet minutes for yourself. But what if you could by increasing your productivity?
Let’s take a deeper look at why time seems to vanish, and how you can reclaim just a little bit of it—not to do more, but to do what matters.
Why you’re (unintentionally) wasting time
You’re not lazy. You’re not unmotivated. You’re overwhelmed—and human. But here’s what might be happening:
- You procrastinate the hard stuff – Maybe you’re avoiding that thing you’ve been dreading (like folding the mountain of laundry, or answering those emails), holding out for the mythical “perfect time.”
- You multitask like a boss… but nothing gets done – Half-done chores, several tabs open, your head is all over the place.
- You’re distracted – Your phone buzzes. You check Instagram. You answer a WhatsApp message. Suddenly, 40 minutes are gone.
- You run on low energy – Scattered sleep, no breaks, too many demands. Your brain is exhausted before the day even begins.
- You’re surrounded by energy drainers – Certain habits, people, or even expectations can leave you feeling depleted.
Can you relate? That doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means it’s time to shift gears and get intentional.
Productivity, yoga-style: focus your energy
In yoga philosophy, there’s a principle called Brahmacharya. Traditionally, it’s about self-restraint, but a more modern interpretation is this: Don’t waste your energy. Be mindful of how you spend your time, attention, and effort. When you conserve your energy for what really matters—whether that’s a yoga stretch, a deep breath, or a warm moment with your child—you begin to feel more in control of your day.
So how can you do that, in a way that actually fits your life?
9 real-life strategies to make the most of your day and make time for you
These aren’t productivity hacks for CEOs or 20-somethings with no kids. These are simple, mom-tested ways to feel less overwhelmed and sneak in the self-care you crave.
1. Eat the frog first
Do the thing you’re dreading first. Tackle that email, that call, that paperwork early. The satisfaction will fuel you for the rest of the day—and free up time later for a short yoga session or mindful moment.
2. Break big tasks into bite-sized pieces
Instead of “cleaning the entire house,” aim for “wipe down kitchen counters” or “fold one basket of laundry.” Small wins are still wins, and they build momentum.
3. Try the Pomodoro technique
I first read about the Pomodoro technique in a book called “El Método Ikigai”. It’s an easy method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the 1980s to increase productivity and get things done. Set a timer for 25 minutes, focus on just one task, then take a 5-minute break. No scrolling, no interruptions. After four rounds, take a longer break—and maybe stretch, breathe, or sip tea in peace.
4. Create a loose plan with purpose
Start your day by asking: What really matters today? Then build your to-do list around that. Even with the inevitable curveballs, having a purpose helps you stay grounded.
5. Have a backup plan
Can’t get to your yoga mat? Do 3 deep breaths while waiting for the kettle to boil. Missed your journaling time? Reflect for a minute while walking to pick up the kids. Flexibility is your superpower.
6. Change the narrative
Cleaning the floors? That’s your movement for the day. Strolling to the store? That’s your walking meditation. Putting away toys? Turn it into a game or a dance. Mundane tasks become meaningful when you shift your mindset.
7. Honor your natural rhythm
Your energy levels change through the day (and month). Some days, just surviving is enough. On others, you might feel unstoppable. Listen to your body and go with the flow—not against it.
8. Lower the bar (really)
That never-ending to-do list? It’s okay if it doesn’t get done. You’re not a machine. Instead of beating yourself up, celebrate what did get done—whether it’s one load of laundry or remembering to drink water.
9. Stop the comparison spiral
No one else is walking in your shoes. Social media might show curated lives, but you are living the real Keep your eyes on your own path, and make time for the things that nourish you.
Take a moment to reflect
Before you rush into the rest of your day, pause and ask yourself:
- Am I using my time in a way that reflects what matters to me?
- What tasks do I keep postponing—and why?
- What habits are stealing my energy? Can I let go of just one?
- What’s one small act of self-care I can include today?
You don’t need more time. You need more presence, purpose, and a bit of permission to care for yourself, too.
Even five minutes of yoga. A single deep breath. A moment of stillness.
They all count. And you count.
Wondering how to include some well-deserved me time throughout the day? Get my free toolkit “How to incorporate yoga into your daily life”!
Bibliography:
Desikachar, T. V. K. 1995. The heart of Yoga. Developing a Personal Practice. Rochester, Vermont: Inner Traditions International, p 98.
García, H., Mirailles, F. 2017. El método Ikigai: Despierta tu verdadera pasión y cumple tus propósitos vitales. Barcelona, Penguin Random House Grupo Editorial, p 128.
The Pomodoro Technique: <https://www.pomodorotechnique.com/>
The Yamas: Brahmacharya: <https://blog.glo.com/2012/11/the-yamas-brahmacharya/>
