After months of long, strenuous pregnancy and delivery, you finally have your beautiful baby in your arms. It's a period of immense joy, excitement, and graveness all at once. You're delighted to finally be a mother, have a new sense of purpose, and feel a deep love for your child. But you're also exhausted, anxious, and worried about everything. From wondering if you're doing everything right to being restless about getting enough sleep, it's normal to feel like a hot mess as a new mom. It is at this time that healthy habits are essential to form.
Most moms will say that the first few weeks or months post-delivery were some of the hardest of their lives. They don't sugarcoat it because it's not all rainbows and butterflies. And nothing will prepare you for it, no matter how many books/magazines you read or what your friends tell you.
However, if you build healthy habits early on, you'll set yourself up for a calmer and more enjoyable postpartum period. These habits will keep you sane and prevent you from getting overwhelmed by everything happening. You'll feel less like a sleep-deprived, hormonal mess and more like the woman you used to be. These healthy habits will also ensure your baby's health and well-being and give them the best start in life.
Your baby's health should always be your utmost priority. Most importantly, ensure you're up to date on their immunizations and that they're getting the proper nutrition. Also, look for any signs of childbirth injuries, especially cerebral palsy, which can occur due to medical malpractice during birthing. The side effects of such an injury can be devastating, so it's essential to be aware of the possibility and get your baby the help they need if it does occur.
Moreover, keep in mind that your baby's health can also be adversely affected by environmental factors. Make sure their sleep environment is safe and free of toxins or pollutants. Lastly, don't forget to give them plenty of love and affection. It is critical for their development, both physically and emotionally.
You've been through a lot, and your body needs time to recover. If you keep pushing yourself too hard, you'll only prolong the healing process. Ensure to get enough rest and give yourself time to recover.
The more rested you are, the more patience you'll have in caring for your baby. You'll also be able to think clearly and make better decisions for both of you.
New moms mostly forget to eat or drink because they're so focused on caring for their babies. But it's essential to take care of yourself, too, so that you can have the energy to take care of your baby.
If you often skip meals or find yourself snacking on unhealthy foods, try to make an effort to eat more nutritious meals. It's alright to treat yourself every once in a while, but try to ensure that meals are well-rounded and include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
Additionally, whether or not you're breastfeeding, you'll need to drink plenty of fluids to stay healthy. Drink water or other unsweetened beverages throughout the day, and avoid sugary drinks. Caffeinated beverages can dehydrate you, so limit your intake or switch to decaf versions.
All day you're stuck in the house with your baby, prepping bottles and diapers and trying to keep things clean. No wonder you feel a little stir-crazy at times. But even if it's just for a few minutes, be sure to step outside for some fresh air every day. It will help you clear your head and give you a little break from the craziness.
You can:
Just step out of the house for a few minutes. It's healthy and necessary for you to have some time to yourself and re-energize.
Many new moms tend to put their needs and interests on the back burner because they're fixated on caring for the little one and everyone else. But it's vital to make time for yourself and do things that make you happy. Something that reminds you of who you are outside of being a mom.
Here are a few ideas:
Bottom line: Don't forget about your happiness. It might look different than it did before you had kids, but do what you can to incorporate things into your life that bring you joy.
You may want to do everything yourself, but that isn't always possible or necessary. Doing so will only add to your stress levels and make it harder to provide the best care for your baby.
So, whenever you are struggling or overwhelmed with all that is required, reach out for help. Talk to your partner, friends, or loved ones about ways they can support you. You can even hire a professional service, like babysitting or a postpartum doula, to give you a break.
The time you spend taking care of yourself will pay off. You'll be a calmer, more patient parent who is better able to handle the challenges that come with caring for a baby.
A newborn can bring a whirl of emotions and new challenges. But in such a special time, it's also essential to take care of yourself. Focus on your health and diet, get some fresh air daily, drink lots of fluids, and ask for help when needed. Your loved ones will be happy to support you, and the time you spend caring for yourself will pay off in the long run.
Remember, the more invested you are in health and well-being, the better equipped you'll be to handle the challenges of parenthood.
