How To Practise Self-Care As A New Mom
Becoming a mom for the first time can be a wonderful yet exhausting experience. Between night feeds, diaper changes and the endless piles of laundry, finding time for yourself often feels impossible. However, a little self-care goes a long way. Self-care is a crucial component of stress relief and personal well-being - after all, a happy, healthy mom means a happy, healthy baby. Contrary to popular belief, self-care doesn’t have to be about regular trips to the spa or salon - it can be as simple as taking ten minutes to enjoy a hot cup of coffee in peace or treating yourself to a new item of clothing. Here are some tips for practising self-care as a new mom.
Eat Well
Nourishing your little one will be a top priority; however, you mustn't forget to nourish yourself. Pregnancy and birth can be profoundly traumatic for the body, and you may experience joint strain, back pain, cramps and bleeding during the postpartum period. Getting plenty of rest is the best way to help your body heal, but remember - food is fuel. Aim to get five portions of fresh fruit and vegetables per day, along with whole grains, lean protein and dairy. It is also worth noting that if you are breastfeeding, experts recommend consuming up to 500 extra calories to meet your nutritional needs.
Sleep Whenever You Can
Sleep is another vitally important component of recovery and self-care for new moms. As you’re more than likely aware, the presence of a newborn means you, your partner and other household members will be getting much less sleep. Consequently, grabbing power naps whenever possible will be your saving grace. Of course, it may be tempting to get some household chores done once your little one is asleep, but avoid over-exerting yourself. Take these fleeting moments as an opportunity to wind down and get some much-needed rest.
Be Selective About Visitors
Once you welcome your bundle of joy into the world, they will be in high demand. You will likely have a long queue of friends and relatives eager to meet your brand-new baby and offer their well wishes. However, many new moms admit feeling pressured into accepting visitors even though they may not have the time or the energy. You are well within your right to request your loved ones give you some space until you are ready for visitors - don’t allow yourself to feel pressured into doing otherwise.
Reach Out
Around one in seven women experience symptoms of postpartum depression, which may involve low mood, severe lack of energy, anxiety and difficulty bonding with your body. Although these symptoms may seem alarming, they are entirely normal and nothing to feel ashamed of. If you feel as though you are struggling, it is crucial that you reach out to your support network, health visitor or doctor. There are numerous treatment options, including cognitive behavioural therapy and medication, so don’t suffer in silence.
Get Outdoors
Getting some fresh air can do you the world of good. Fresh air has an overall positive impact on both your physical and mental well-being, boosting your mood, increasing your energy levels and improving lung function. While pushing a bulky pram around may seem like exhausting work, fortunately, many . With the ever-rising prevalence of family bloggers and influencers, it can be easy for everyday parents to experience feelings of isolation and inadequacy. Remember, many users who post family-related content often portray an unrealistic representation of motherhood. Limit your social media consumption and avoid comparing yourself to others.
Take Time For Yourself
Keep in mind that although you are a mom, you are also an individual. The definition of self-care varies from person to person - whatever it means to you, take the time to maintain your own physical and mental well-being. Consider asking your partner or a trusted family member to care for your baby for an afternoon and dedicate this time purely to yourself.