The Invisible Load of Motherhood (And Why Self Care Matters, Mama)

Hey Mama, Can We Talk About Motherhood Self Care?

You’re probably thinking, “Yeah right—when?” I get it. When you’re carrying the invisible load of motherhood, self care often feels impossible.

But here’s the truth: You deserve it. You need it. And it doesn’t have to be a spa day or a weekend getaway (though wouldn’t that be nice?). Sometimes, motherhood self care is simply about acknowledging how much you carry and giving yourself permission to be seen and celebrated.

The Mental Load: Remembering It All

One of the biggest pieces of the invisible load is the mental labor of motherhood. You’re the one who remembers when the next size-up clothes need to be bought, where every favorite stuffed animal is hiding, and who likes their sandwich cut into triangles but never squares.

It’s not that you’re asked to remember it all—you just do. But recognizing this is the first step in motherhood self care. When you see the weight you’re carrying, you can begin to give yourself grace.

The Emotional Load: Feeling It All

You don’t just carry their backpacks—you carry their feelings. You’re the safe place for their tears, worries, frustrations, and joys. All while managing your own emotions in the background.

Mama, this emotional labor is a huge part of the invisible load. That’s why self care for moms isn’t selfish. It’s survival. Taking a moment to acknowledge everything you’re holding emotionally is a powerful form of motherhood self care that no one else can give you—you have to give it to yourself.

The Physical Load: Doing It All

From the moment your feet hit the floor, you’re moving. Feeding, cleaning, carrying, tidying, soothing, organizing. Even when you sit down, your hands are busy—folding laundry, wiping faces, holding little ones.

It’s a beautiful kind of giving, but it’s also exhausting. Which is why making space for motherhood self care—even in small, meaningful ways—is so important.

The Invisible Load Doesn’t Mean You’re Invisible

Mama, just because others don’t see everything you carry doesn’t mean you are invisible. You are seen. You are valued. You are loved.

And while this load is heavy, it’s also a reflection of your incredible heart. But you deserve to be cared for, too. That’s what motherhood self care is about—not pampering, but pausing to honor yourself.

Gratitude Beneath the Load

Yes, motherhood is heavy. But it’s also filled with moments that make you whisper “Thank you.” The sleepy snuggles. The sticky hands reaching for yours. The whispered “I love you, Mama” at bedtime.

We carry this load because we love them so deeply. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t acknowledge the weight of it. Motherhood self care is giving yourself permission to feel gratitude and exhaustion at the same time.

A Keepsake That Honors Your Motherhood Self Care

You’re always collecting memories for your children—baby books, photos, keepsakes. But how often do you preserve your own journey?

That’s why I create breastmilk jewelry keepsakes. Not just for memories, but as a form of motherhood self care. A wearable reminder that your story matters too. That every ounce you poured into them deserves to be honored and held close to your heart.

Mama, You Deserve This

Motherhood self care doesn’t have to be extravagant. Sometimes it’s as simple as holding onto a keepsake that says: “I see you, Mama.” “You are enough.” “Your journey is worth remembering.”

I’d be honored to create something just for you.

Ready to honor your journey with a piece of motherhood self care that lasts?

With love, always,

Tiffany V.

Fellow Mama & Breastmilk Jewelry Artist