How to let go of the guilt and give yourself permission to unwind.
Let’s talk about mom guilt. If you’re a mom, chances are you’ve felt it. Whether it’s the constant pressure to be the “perfect” parent, the need to balance a million things, or feeling like you should always be doing more, it’s so easy to fall into the trap of guilt. And if you’re a mom who uses cannabis to unwind, that guilt can feel even heavier.
As moms, we put so much pressure on ourselves to be there for everyone—our kids, our partners, even our friends. But what about being there for ourselves? It’s time to shift that mindset, release the guilt, and recognize that you deserve a break just as much as anyone else. Whether you choose to unwind with a cup of tea, a bath, or a little cannabis, the key is giving yourself permission to take care of your needs.
Why We Feel Mom Guilt
Mom guilt seems to come with the territory of motherhood. From the moment our babies are born, we’re bombarded with messages about what “good” moms do: We’re supposed to be attentive, patient, and constantly nurturing. We’re told to put our kids first in every situation, which can lead to feelings of guilt if we ever put ourselves first.
For moms who use cannabis, that guilt can be compounded. Society still holds stigmas around cannabis use, especially for moms, leading us to question ourselves: Am I making the right choice? Will others judge me? But here’s the thing: Every mom deserves to have a way to unwind, to recharge, and to care for her mental health. Cannabis can be a healthy, natural way to do just that.
Why Cannabis Isn’t Selfish—It’s Self-Care
Using cannabis as a mom isn’t about being reckless or neglecting your responsibilities—it’s about finding a way to relax, reduce stress, and prioritize your well-being. Let’s be honest, motherhood is hard work, and we all need time to decompress. For some moms, that might look like yoga or a long walk, while for others, it might include lighting a joint or using a CBD-infused product to take the edge off.
The truth is, cannabis is a tool that helps many moms manage the mental load of parenting. It can enhance relaxation, help with sleep, and ease anxiety—all things that are crucial for moms to feel their best. When we take care of ourselves, we’re better equipped to take care of our families. So, it’s not selfish to use cannabis for stress relief; it’s an act of self-care.
How to Let Go of the Guilt
Letting go of mom guilt doesn’t happen overnight, but here are a few steps to help ease that burden and embrace your need for self-care:
1. Reframe Your Perspective
Instead of viewing cannabis use as indulgent or selfish, think of it as an important part of your self-care routine. Just like getting enough sleep or eating nutritious meals, managing stress is essential to being the best version of yourself. If cannabis helps you achieve that balance, it’s worth prioritizing.
2. Educate Yourself
One way to combat feelings of guilt is by educating yourself on cannabis and how it benefits your mental and physical health. Learn about the effects of different strains, products, and dosages so you can use cannabis intentionally. Understanding how cannabis helps you personally can give you confidence in your choices.
3. Set Boundaries
Create boundaries around your cannabis use that work for you and your family. Whether that’s using cannabis after your child is in bed or setting aside quiet time to relax with a CBD-infused bath bomb, having clear guidelines can help ease any lingering guilt. When your use is intentional and controlled, you’re more likely to feel good about it.
4. Talk About It
Mom guilt thrives in silence. If you feel comfortable, talk to other moms who use cannabis or explore online communities where other cannabis-using moms share their experiences. Hearing that you’re not alone can help normalize the conversation and reduce any feelings of shame or guilt.
You Deserve a Break, Mama
Being a mom is one of the most rewarding jobs in the world, but it’s also incredibly draining. You’re allowed to take a break. You’re allowed to relax. You’re allowed to use cannabis if it helps you unwind and feel more centered. There’s no shame in finding ways to prioritize your mental health and well-being, especially when it helps you show up as a more patient, present, and loving mom.
At the end of the day, a happy, healthy mom is what’s best for your family. So, the next time you feel that mom guilt creeping in, remember: You deserve a break, and it’s okay to take it.
How do you let go of mom guilt? Do you use cannabis as part of your self-care routine? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!