5 wellness hacks you haven’t tried (yet)

Short on time and long on to-do lists? We hear you!

Whether it’s school runs, work deadlines, or just getting dinner on the table, finding time for yourself can feel like one more task on a never-ending list.

But looking after yourself doesn’t need to mean epic gym sessions or Vipassana retreats (though no judgement if you’re into that). Sometimes the smaller, lesser-known wellness wins make the biggest difference.

Here are five wellness hacks that are a little outside the box and perfect for busy mums.

1. Stack your wellness wins

No time for long rituals? No problem. Layer simple wellness habits into things you’re already doing. Mindful breathing while you sit in Gaia’s Red Light Pod. A feel-good playlist or podcast while you walk down the beach. Or a quick stretch while the pot boils. It’s not about doing more; it’s about making the most of those moments (instead of reaching for your phone).

2. Micro-movements, big results

You don’t need a full gym session to feel like you’ve worked out. Gaia’s Power Plate sessions are just 30 minutes long, but the whole-body vibration stimulates muscles, improves circulation, and activates your lymphatic system. It's soooo gooood for tired, time-poor mums. Plus, it helps ease tightness from desk work, driving, or carrying toddlers. Tack on a quick stroll or a barefoot moment in the garden, and you’ll feel surprisingly refreshed, without breaking a sweat or your schedule.

3. Let hot and cold do the heavy lifting

If mum-life is feeling a bit same-same, maybe it’s time to step outside your comfort zone. Gaia’s Contrast Therapy—an infrared sauna followed by the benefits of an ice bath, might sound intense, but it’s one of those things that surprises you in the best way.

Regular Contrast Therapy goer (and Mum of three) Sarah Bunker from Papamoa says it’s one of the best things she’s ever done:

“I didn’t think I’d be a sauna or cold plunge person, because I like to be comfortable! But now that I’ve tried it, I’m so glad I did. My husband and I go together fortnightly and we love it. My thoughts melt away during the session, and I leave feeling tingly all over and invigorated.” More on Sarah’s experience here.

4. Wellness hack snack… but for your nervous system

Yes, you read that right. A “nervous system snack” is a tiny action you can do in 30 seconds or less to calm your body and mind. Try humming, sighing out loud, lightly tapping your chest, or even splashing cold water on your face. These small pauses tell your body you’re safe, and over time, they help keep stress from building up. (Think of them as the wellness equivalent of hiding in the pantry with a hunk of chocolate, just healthier.)

5. Find your touch anchor

This one’s easy but powerful - pick a simple physical gesture, like placing your hand on your heart, rubbing your hands together, or lightly squeezing your forearms. Then, use it every time you need to reset or ground yourself. Over time, your body learns to associate that touch with calm. It becomes your portable, invisible “you’ve got this” button, always accessible, always available.

Small steps, big shifts!

Self-care doesn’t need to be complicated. At Gaia Wellness & Recovery, we’re all about easy, effective, time-friendly therapies. From Red Light Therapy and Contrast Therapy to the epic benefits of Power Plate and more, you’ll find practical ways to feel better, without turning your routine upside down.

Ready to try a wellness hack that fits into mum-life? Book a session today.