Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish: A Guide for Busy Women

As a CEO, entrepreneur, and mom, I know firsthand how easy it is to put yourself last. For years, I poured my energy into growing Mantra Fitness, building community, supporting my team, and showing up for my family. Somewhere in the mix, I convinced myself that pushing harder was the answer—and that pausing to care for myself was indulgent. But here’s what I’ve learned: when I neglect my own health, energy, and spirit, everything else suffers.

Self-care is not selfish. It’s the foundation that allows us to lead, inspire, and show up fully, for our businesses, families, and communities.

Reframing Self-Care: From Luxury to Necessity

At Mantra, we teach movement as a tool for strength and transformation. But self-care goes far beyond a workout. It’s about building practices that sustain you mentally, physically, and emotionally. Think of it like training: when you condition your body, you perform better. When you care for yourself, you lead better.

6 Practical Self-Care Strategies for Busy Women

1. Protect Your Morning
    I start my day with intention. Even ten minutes of quiet before the emails and calls flood in changes everything. Whether it’s journaling, stretching, or sipping tea in silence, those minutes protect my energy for the day ahead.
   

2. Move in Micro-Doses
    As a fitness CEO, I believe movement doesn’t have to mean carving out hours. Short bursts—walking between meetings, flowing through Pilates inspired moves, or simply taking three deep breaths at your desk reset your energy and sharpen your focus.
   

3. Nourish Instead of Numb
    I’ve learned the hard way that caffeine and sugar aren’t sustainable strategies. Fueling with real, nutrient dense foods is a form of leadership. It gives me the stamina I need to handle the constant juggling act.
   

4. Say No Without Guilt
    Running a company taught me that every yes is a no to something else. Protecting your time isn’t just self-care it’s leadership. Boundaries allow you to show up more powerfully where it matters most.
   

5. Create a Joy Ritual
    My days are full and often high stakes, so I anchor myself with small rituals lighting a candle in the evening, stepping outside between calls, or listening to music that grounds me. These aren’t luxuries; they’re nervous system resets.
   

6. Lean Into Community
    One of my proudest achievements with Mantra is creating a community of women who lift each other up. Self-care isn’t always solo it’s about surrounding yourself with people who see you, support you, and encourage you.
   

The Ripple Effect

Here’s the truth: when you take care of yourself, everyone benefits. As a leader, my team sees me model resilience and boundaries. As a mom, my children see that strength doesn’t come from running on empty—it comes from honoring your body and mind.

Self-care isn’t about checking out from life—it’s about checking in. It’s how we build the capacity to lead, to nurture, and to thrive. And for women juggling it all, it’s the most generous act we can give—not just to ourselves, but to everyone who counts on us.