Your life has been filled with appointments and events surrounding the arrival of your newest family member. Remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your little one. When you are well, your care of others (baby, partner) improves too. It is not a selfish obsession to care for you. It is necessary for you in order to be healthy mentally, emotionally and physically. Self care allows you to be fully present for all the sweetness life has to offer.
The special events you plan for yourself will vary depending on your own style, but here are a few ideas:
· Remember the importance of rest: Just know that having sleep makes everything better, and find what works best for you and your new family. Maybe that means going to bed earlier when baby goes to sleep, or napping in shifts with your partner. Sometimes it might seem impossible, but just try to remember to make sleep a priority.
· Seek like minds: Join a new parent group or a breastfeeding group so you can meet others in the same boat. It is a reason to leave the house, a great support and a wonderful way to make new friends.
· For moms: Purchase post-partum clothing: After-baby bodies are harder to fit than pregnant bodies. It may take months to get back to a size that is more familiar to you. Buy a few loose fitting dresses or leggings that will make the adjustment more comfortable physically and emotionally. As my friend told me, “Don’t wear jeans that hurt your legs or your feelings.”
· Go out: Don’t rush on this one; regular life will return soon enough. However, we do recommend planning a few easy meet-ups with people you enjoy. It will feel better than you think to leave the nest and stretch your wings.
· Pamper yourself: Before you need it! Try not to wait until you are miserable. Schedule one of these self care experiences just to feel good: hair appointment, pedicure, manicure or massage. (If money is tight, a do-it-yourself spa day works too!)
· Let people help. If someone offers to bring a meal, take your other children, clean your house, or let you sleep….let them! It is a nice way to feel loved and get rejuvenated.
· Exercise: We already know the benefits of exercise. Find a way to take a walk, do yoga at home, go to the gym, whatever you can carve out of your day. Look up little workouts you can do while holding baby. Again, don’t rush this, but a little exercise goes a long way to boost your mood and help relieve the growing pains of your new mommy or daddy job.
· Treat yourself: Find tiny ways to treat yourself throughout the day. If you like to read, sneak a few pages during a feeding. If you enjoy sweets, save yourself a small slice of cake for a bedtime treat. Watch your favorite video while you get dressed. It does not have to be big, just a reminder that you are special.
· Prepare your day. As the Fly Lady (Finally Loving Yourself) says, “Get up! Get Dressed! Get your shoes on!” You don’t need to start this right away, but do start. Even if you do not plan on seeing anyone, it feels better to be ready to greet the day. You are worth a shower and clothes that make you feel confident.
· Keep a schedule. Obviously, the need to be flexible is necessary when you get your new arrival, but getting a somewhat predictable flow to your day will help you accomplish as many of the self care items as possible. Even those who don’t enjoy a strict schedule can benefit from knowing when a few events take place.
Taking care of yourself is important so you have the energy to take care of your baby. Drink water when you’re thirsty, eat when you are hungry and eat good foods. Try to get a little sun and fresh air every day. Even five minutes can make a difference. Talk with an online group or trusted friend. Enjoy life by taking time to take care of you.
This blog was written by Darlene Lundquist, RN, Community Health Worker, Labor of Love and Mia De lenno, CNA, Community Health Student Intern, Labor of Love.