Self-Care Isn’t Extra: How Single Moms Fill Their Cup (Without the Guilt)

Liza and Wendy are joined by guest Jenny Garcia (Toronto-based graphic designer + mom of a soon-to-be teen) for a real, relatable conversation about self-care during the pandemic. They unpack what self-care actually looks like when you’re a single parent—therapy, movement, food routines, journaling, boundaries, and the mental “buffer” that keeps you from spiraling. The big theme: self-care isn’t selfish… it’s what makes you a calmer, steadier, more present mom.

• Self-care is the foundation, not the reward. You can’t pour into everyone else if your own cup is empty.

• Therapy helps in a different way than loved ones. Breathing tools + stress coping skills can be game-changers.

• Start small and build momentum. Even 5–10 minutes counts (especially when life is chaotic).

• Food doesn’t need to be a war. Portion awareness + “feel good barometer” > all-or-nothing thinking.

• Journaling helps you process instead of explode. Write the messy thoughts out, then decide your next step.

• Don’t take everything personally. A pause can stop you from turning one comment into “I’m not enough.”

• Modeling matters. Self-care isn’t taking time away from your kids—it shows them how to take care of themselves.

Try this today (topic-resonant)

The “10-Minute Fill My Cup” reset:

1. 2 minutes: Deep breathing (inhale 4, exhale 6).

2. 5 minutes: Journal one page or bullet dump (no filter).

3. 3 minutes: One micro-action that supports you today:

   • lemon water, quick stretch, step outside, tidy one corner, or sit and eat one meal slowly.
     End with one sentence: “I love you, so I’m taking care of me.”
     

Watch Full Episode