By Rosie Thompson, Co-Founder of CupFull and Nutrition Consultant for Mums
Let’s be honest, in the juggle of motherhood, your own needs are usually last on the list (if they make the list at all). Between feeding everyone else, wiping little faces, and answering "Muuuuum!" for the 37th time before 9am, it’s easy to forget you’re a human too....one who needs energy, patience, and brain space to function.
But here’s the truth we often forget: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Nourishing yourself isn’t indulgent — it’s necessary.
The myth of “pushing through"
Motherhood is full of moments where we’re told to “just keep going.” But constantly running on empty isn’t a badge of honour — it’s a fast track to burnout. The brain fog, the exhaustion, the 3pm slump that hits harder than your toddler’s tantrum — these are signs your body is asking for help.
Often, it’s not a lack of willpower. It’s a lack of fuel.
Why fuelling YOU makes a difference
When your body gets the nutrients it needs, everything works better:
- You have more energy to keep up with your little ones — and their endless snack requests.
- Your mood becomes more stable, helping you respond calmly when things go sideways.
- Your brain functions more clearly — goodbye brain fog, hello remembering what you walked into the room for.
- Your hormones regulate more smoothly — especially important during postpartum and the ever-changing seasons of mum life.
Put simply: when you’re nourished, you show up as the version of yourself you actually enjoy being.
Small ways to fuel yourself every day
You don’t need a whole new routine or fancy wellness rituals to feel better. Try these simple, manageable steps:
1. Start your day with real nourishment
Skipping breakfast or living off your toddler’s scraps can send your blood sugar crashing before 10am. Instead, aim for a brekkie with protein, healthy fats, and fibre.
This is where CupFull comes in — our frozen smoothie packs are made for mums, by mums, and are packed with:
- Protein for long-lasting energy
- Collagen to support postpartum healing
- Chia & flaxseeds for fibre, healthy fats, and brain-boosting omega-3s
- Real frozen fruit for natural sweetness and essential vitamins
Just blend and go — no prep, no mess, no thinking required.
2. Drink more water than your toddler spills
Dehydration makes everything harder — including parenting. Keep a drink bottle handy and aim to drink a glass of water before your morning coffee (yes, even if it’s reheated three times).
3. Snacks, snacks, snacks
Snacks aren’t just for little hands. A handful of almonds, boiled eggs, or some greek yoghurt with berries can help you stay steady through the chaos.
4. Get outside when you can
Fresh air does wonders for your mood and energy. Even a quick lap around the block can reset your body and mind — and bonus points if you leave the house solo.
A gentle reminder: you deserve to feel good, too
Motherhood asks a lot of you — your time, your energy, your heart. But taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. When you’re well-fed, well-fuelled, and feeling good, you’re not just surviving — you’re creating the solid foundation your family needs to thrive.
Because the best way to care for them, is to start by filling your own cup first.
