Essential self-care tips for new moms
Once you become a mother, it’s a bit of a challenge as we can easily forget ourselves. The reason for this is that we end up prioritizing everything and everyone around us. Despite the new lifestyle as a mom, self-care is essential.
First, let’s get to understand a few things.
What is self-care?
Self-care is a task we practice regularly to take care of ourselves. It can be to help emotionally, mentally or physically.
Why is self-care important?
You can practice self-care for many reasons. The overarching importance of self-care, especially for new moms, will motivate you to have a good relationship with yourself. Not only that, but it will also help you embrace motherhood.
Why is self-care important for new moms?
Now that you know what self-care is and how important it is, it’s good to let you know what can happen if you neglect it.
Here’s what you may experience as a new mom:
- Anger
- Postpartum depression
- Low self-esteem
- Sleepless nights
- Regretting why you’re a mother
Seven helpful tips to help new moms practice self-care.
1. Exercise
Exercise is one of the best self-care practices that you shouldn’t skip.
If you’re a new mom, you may have postpartum blues. These are feelings of sadness that we mothers often experience right after giving birth.
By doing some exercises, you can alleviate these blues. In this way, you’ll reduce the risk of postpartum depression.
Easy exercises for a new mom
Here are a few exercises that I practice to help ease all the ups and downs of motherhood.
- Stretch in the morning and before bed.
- Take a 30-minute walk at least three times a week.
- Jump rope.
- Do 10 to 15 sit-ups a day just around the house.
- Yoga
Self-care tips for new moms
2. Treat yourself
Everyone has a few things they enjoy. For example, when I have time off, I like to go out for coffee and watch some reality shows.
Maybe you aren’t a coffee drinker and enjoy things like: taking a bath, getting a massage, or putting on makeup. Whatever it is, don’t be afraid to treat yourself.
"Self-care isn't optional; it's a necessity."
3. Socialize
When I hear moms out there say they don’t have time to socialize anymore, I understand what they mean.
But on the flip side, I rephrase their statement to “I’m not able to socialize with friends all the time.” Meaning, it will never be the same, but it’s still possible.
Maybe you used to meet up with your friends or relatives every weekend. After having a baby, that may no longer be the case. Still, try to make time now and then. Ask your partner, a friend, or hire a caregiver to look after your baby for a few hours.
- Meet a friend for coffee.
- Go for a hike with a group.
- Get involved in volunteering in the community.
Socializing is very good for your health.
4. Practice good hygiene
- Take a shower.
- Do your hair.
- Change your pajamas.
These self-care practices will help new moms health-wise and have a positive impact on those around them.
5. Get enough sleep
Sleepless nights are typical, especially in the first few months of being a mom. You have to get up, change diapers, nurse, and give your baby attention when she needs it. After waking up, you are often tired and haven’t gotten enough sleep.
Sleep is vital for all of us. Take a nap when your baby is sleeping during the day. By doing so, you’ll help your body get enough rest and refresh your mind.
6. Accept help
When I see other new moms who don’t let anyone else do anything for their baby, I can relate.
I was like that once, too. For the first month, I wanted to be the one to do everything. Plus, I didn’t let my daughter out of my hands. I didn’t know I was hurting myself by doing so. By the end of the day, I was so exhausted that my arms hurt, and I felt like being a mom wasn’t that interesting.
Later, when I accepted help from other people, I began to feel good about myself, and the healing process was much more manageable.
If you have someone close by who is willing to help you, take advantage of it. Your body needs rest, as does your mind. This way, you can refresh yourself and look at your mother’s life positively.
7. Talk to other moms
- Join moms groups on social media.
- Meet other moms in your area.
Meeting with other new moms and sharing your experiences is a perfect exercise in self-care.
You’ll become enlightened and realize that you’re not the only one struggling with adjusting to motherhood. This will help you become a calm mother who loves and embraces a new life.
You get enlightened and realize that you’re not the only one who struggled with adapting to motherhood. Thus, helping you become a calm mom, love, and embrace the new life.
Conclusion
Are you a new mom? I encourage you to try some of these self-care tips, and you’ll see a positive impact. Welcome to motherhood. It’s not as hard as it sounds. It’s interesting, fun, and a life lesson you’ll love.
Continue reading: Valuable life lessons learned from motherhood
