Moms get so focused on taking care of their new baby that they put their care to the wayside!
Sound familiar?
Today we will focus on self care for you!
Over 80%, Shocking, Right?
In fact, none of the moms reported full resumption of usual activities in the area of self-care at six weeks postpartum- no surprise there! There's so much to consider with remembering when your baby’s last feeding session was, ensuring proper position and the latch , and counting messy diapers, that you can easily leave your own wellness at the doorstep.
But it IS shocking to find that over 80% of moms failed to resume self-care activities at 6 months postpartum!
Self-care postpartum is more than just bubble baths, face masks and pedicures (but those are a great part)!
Maternal self-care is defined as the mother’s ability (and willingness) to take care of herself both physically and emotionally.
Let’s review what you can do for your self care!
True!
Giving your body nutritious AND delicious foods is an important part of self care.
You cannot sustain yourself on just chips and protein bars!
Do you find yourself quickly eating standing in the kitchen?
Take your plate and have a seat! This may not be possible all the time but find a time in the day to enjoy your mealtime and give yourself food that is nourishing your body and mind!
Keep yourself well hydrated too! Buy yourself a postpartum water bottle to remind you to drink up!
Take time for you!
Your day and night is full of taking care of and enjoying your little one and that is great!
But….it is just as important to take time to enjoy things that remind you of you! You do exist outside of being a parent and honor that self!
Maybe you could:
Listen to an interesting podcast
Read some poetry or a book
Watch a documentary
Listen to some music
Both are part of self care!
Your body did an amazing and incredible thing! Honor your body by taking care of it and pampering it in the best way!
Shower regularly! Yes it had to be said! Most moms just can’t find the time to do this.
Leave your baby with your partner or if you are on your own, buckle in your baby in a bouncer in the bathroom.
Find a moment to take a luxurious and relaxing bath! You deserve this time and your baby is going to be okay...in fact even better after you have given yourself the space and love YOU need!
Treat yourself to some comfortable postpartum clothes that make you feel like you! Postpartum doesn’t have to be all robes and pajamas...but if you feel good in PJs...go ahead! You do you!
True! Adequate sleep is a crucial part of postpartum self care. Not having enough sleep after delivery is a risk factor for postpartum depression and anxiety.
When you first come home, sleep when the baby sleeps! Don't worry about catching up on chores, or working on the baby album...Just. Sleep.
As you recover after delivery and your baby is sleeping longer at night, your daytime naps with your baby may be less as you have longer to sleep in the evenings. Remember, even if Netflix binges beckon you...ultimately sleep will make you feel way better the next day!
All of the above are barriers to good self care practice!
You may find it hard to accept help or ask others to do things because you are just used to taking on so much ! But it does take a village!
So build up your village and take people up on the offer to help! You may invest in a doula or a night nurse. Your neighbors may offer to bring over some food. Your friends or family may offer to watch your children. Thankfully accept their offer and ask for help when you need it!
The ability to set boundaries is another barrier to self care.
It is okay to say NO. Saying no is saying YES to yourself!
Of course, maintaining connections and being there for friends and family is important...but don’t overextend yourself! Know your limits and boundaries!
No- I am not ready for visitors just yet.
No- I cannot volunteer on that school committee even though I am on maternity leave.
No - I am unable to come to your birthday party on that day.
Say NO to the guilt and YES to reclaiming you!
As mothers we have to remember to take care of ourselves and not just the baby. But as importantly we have to remember that taking care of ourselves is not selfish and should not fill us with guilt.
Would you deprive your kids of healthy nutritious foods, bubble baths, sleep, help, doing things they love and their ability to say no. Why do that to yourself?
Self-care is an essential and responsible part of motherhood.
When your cup is full you are better able to care for your baby!
