Self-Care for Nigerian Autism Moms: 7 Simple Routines That Actually Work
Introduction: Why Self-Care Isn’t a Luxury—It’s a Lifeline
As a Nigerian mother raising a child with autism, you already automatically know what it feels like to be constantly up and about. There are no actual rests or breaks. There are way too many activities, from sensory meltdowns , tantrums to various therapy appointments, special diets to battling social stigma, you're constantly giving—and giving—and giving. But who is pouring back into you, mama?
The truth is this: no one can pour from an empty glass. Self-care for moms of children with autism in Nigeria isn’t selfish. It’s survival. It's a necessity. It's living.It’s how you maintain your inner strength, your peace, and your purpose.
In this post, I’ll be sharing 7 simple, cheap, faith-filled self-care routines that actually work for overwhelmed moms like you. They’re easy, powerful, and grounded in reality—and in God’s grace.
1. Start Your Day with God: The 15-Minute Prayer Activation and Recharge
"Very early in the morning… Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed." — Mark 1:35
Begin your day with a special time in God’s presence, even if it's just for 10–15 minutes. This sets the tone for the day for everything else.
Here’s a simple morning self-care routine:
Breathe deeply: Do 3 slow inhales and exhales to calm your nervous system.
Whisper a prayer: " Lord be my strength today", "Lord walk with me today and order my steps", “Lord, strengthen me today. I am weak, but You are strong.”
Read a scripture: Start with Psalms or Isaiah 40:31.
Journal one thing you’re grateful for: Gratitude heals perspective.
Even in the chaos, starting with God is your first act of self-love.
Self-care tip: Keep a small devotional or Bible beside your bed. If you miss your “quiet time,” don’t beat yourself up. Just talk to God in the bathroom or while cooking. He’s always listening.
2. Nourish Your Body Without Guilt
Many autism moms skip meals, eat leftovers, or survive on junks. Your body is carrying emotional, physical, and spiritual weight. You need to nourish it , not punish it.
Start with hydration: Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning.
Eat whole foods: Eggs, okra soup, moimoi, fruits, fermented foods, and beef tallow are healing and budget-friendly.
Don’t skip meals: Skipping meals worsens mood, anxiety, and fatigue.
Meal prepping one pot of soup or stew on Sunday can save you from daily overwhelm. Stuck up in the
Self-care tip: Add nutrient-rich foods (like leafy greens and seeds) to calm your nervous system naturally. You can also sip warm ginger or turmeric tea during stressful moments.
3. Create a Quiet Space in Your Home—Just for You
A quiet simple corner can serve . It just needs to be yours. A space where you can breathe, cry, read, or pray without interruption.
Here’s how to create one:
Pick a small space—your bed, a corner of your room, even your bathroom.
Add something soothing: a candle, a framed verse, your journal.
Tell your family: “When I sit here, please give me 10 minutes.”
You’ll be amazed how this tiny habit brings you peace.
Self-care tip: Use this space during or after meltdowns. Go there to renew yourself. It’s not running away—it’s recharging.
4. Give Yourself Permission to Experience All the Feelings
Many Nigerian moms have been raised to suppress emotions—“You’re a strong woman,” “Just manage,” “God will do it.” While these words mean well, emotional denial is not healing.
Cry if you need to.
Write a letter to God when you’re angry or exhausted.
Confess what’s in your heart—He already knows.
You can grieve and still have faith. You can feel broken and still be blessed.
Self-care tip: Try this journal prompt: “Lord, today I feel ____. Please help me.” Writing is therapy for your soul.
5. Move Your Body, Even if It’s Just for 5 Minutes
Exercise feels impossible when you're tired. But movement releases endorphins, the feel-good chemicals that reduce stress, depression, and anxiety.
You don’t need a gym. Try:
Walking outside with your child.
Dancing to worship music in your kitchen.
Doing light housework mindfully.
The goal isn’t weight loss. It’s an emotional release.
Self-care tip: Play a worship song while you move. Let your body worship. Let your tears flow. Let your burdens lift.
6. Ask for Help—And Accept It
You are not weak for needing help. You are wise.
Let a neighbor help with errands.
Ask your spouse or sibling to stay with the kids for 2 hours a week.
Join a local autism mom WhatsApp or Facebook support group.
Accept when someone offers to pray for you, visit, or buy you food.
There is no prize for carrying it all. Healing happens in groups.
Self-care tip: Write a “help list” of 3 people you can call when you feel overwhelmed. Don’t wait until you’re at your breaking point.
7. Rest again
Sleep under peace not pressure.
Don’t wait until you’re in a hospital bed to give yourself rest.
Self-care tip: Place a “Happy and Loved Mama” affirmation beside your bed: “I am loved. I am chosen. I am doing well.”
Bonus: Quick 7-Day Wholesome Mom Self-Care Challenge
Day Self-Care Action
Day 1 Drink 6 glasses of water & speak one affirmation.
Day 2 Take 10 quiet minutes alone in your special space.
Day 3 Call one friend or family member or support person.
Day 4 Walk outside with your child and say 3 things you're grateful for.
Day 5 Do 5 minutes of deep breathing or stretching.
Day 6 Write down your feelings in a journal.
Day 7 Read Psalm 23 and rest early.
Final Thoughts: You Deserve Wholeness Too
You are a wholesome being. You’re not just a caregiver, a therapist, or a scheduler. You are a woman. A mother. A daughter of God. Your soul matters. Your joy matters. Your wholeness matters.
Don’t wait until you collapse before you choose rest. Don’t wait until you burn out before you ask for help. Start small. Start now. Start with grace.
Even in the thick of autism parenting in Nigeria, you can still live a wholesome, healed, and hope-filled life.
💬 What Next?
Leave a comment below: What’s one self-care habit you want to start this week?
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