The Benefits of Postpartum Self-Care
It is understandable, and very common for new mothers to consider their own needs pretty irrelevant when they are dealing with the intense and endless needs of a brand-new baby. The whirlwind of endless nappy changing to late-night feeds, amid this chaos, finding time for self-care may feel like an impossible feat. However no matter how small your efforts, both your body and bubs will thank you for it.
What does realistic self-care for a new mother look like?
Like everything in motherhood, self-care is different for every new mum, be it half an hour to take a bath ALONE, a walk around the block, time with a friend or simply ignoring the housework and bonding with your baby …. Self-care for mothers is all of this and so much more. Find what elevates your soul, makes you smile, and lightens your day then find a way to do this regularly. A new mum who prioritises her well-being is better equipped to cope with motherhood and all the challenges this encompasses.
5 Self-Care Tips for New Mothers
Taking care of yourself is an important part of being a new mum. When you take care of your own physical and emotional needs, you're better able to take care of others. You build resilience so that you're better able to handle stress without burning out, adapt to changes, and get through especially challenging times.
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Learn to Say No, Stop Feeling Overwhelmed as a New Mum
We often perceive saying no as a negative action, fearing potential criticism. However, embracing the power of saying no can be empowering and beneficial in various situations. Begin by saying no to unwelcome visitors, a packed social calendar—and certainly to the expectation of maintaining a perfectly spotless house while being a new mum to a little one. Embrace the strength and autonomy that saying no provides, recognizing that it is a crucial tool in self-care, nurturing your peace and balance in this incredible journey of motherhood.
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Be Good Enough, No One is a Perfect Parent
Striving to be a good parent is a common desire, and the simple act of being present each day and showering your baby with love already makes you one. Many of us grapple with the misconception that being a good parent equates to being flawless, but this notion is far from reality. Instead of pursuing perfection, aim to be a "good enough" parent. If you've fed, clothed, and shared precious cuddles with your baby today, and the house hasn't burned down, you're not just doing well—you're excelling at the most important aspects of parenthood.
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Ask for (And Accept!) Help, Raising a Child Takes a Village
Motherhood isn't a solo effort, acknowledge you can't do it all alone. Many mums find it challenging to ask for help, but it's a crucial step. Make a list of ways visitors can help, often the focus is meeting the new baby, but a new mum's needs can get overlooked. Your support network is there for you, so be vocal about how they can practically help when they visit and seize the opportunity when a friend offers an hour of babysitting – it's not just an invitation but a lifeline. If your partner is part of the equation, communicate openly about sharing the responsibilities of baby care; it's a joint effort. Remember, letting others support you isn't a sign of weakness; it's a key part of looking after yourself on this wild ride of motherhood.
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Talk About Your Postpartum Feelings
Keeping all your stress bottled up isn't healthy for anyone. It's crucial to have someone you trust to share not just the good but also the tough stuff with. Opening up about the challenges of parenting, even the exhausting and burnout-inducing aspects, is essential. Identifying what specific aspects are taking a toll on you enables you to devise a plan to address and overcome these challenges. Building a community of fellow mums or joining mum groups can also be a game-changer. Share experiences, self-care tips, seek advice, read baby books, and find comfort in knowing you're not the only one going through this crazy life stage. So, don't hesitate to unload and confide in someone you trust—it can make a significant difference.
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Let Go of the Mum Guilt
Guilt and motherhood seem to go hand in hand. Guilty you're not enough, that you're not doing “IT” right, that you need a time out, or that you have to go back to work. We could be consumed with thoughts of what we aren't doing …..but as a new mum focus on what you are and that is EVERYTHING to your new baby. You are all they need and you are doing amazing. So the house isn't clean, who cares? You need to go back to work? you’re providing for your child. Look into those tiny little eyes, let go of the guilt, and know that you are enough just as you are.
5 Physical Self-Care Tips for New Mums
When you become a new Mum your body has higher energy and nutrient requirements than ever before, especially if you are breastfeeding. Your immune system is also lower, which makes you even more susceptible to fatigue, stress, anxiety, and infection. This means high-quality sleep, a nutrient-dense diet, and regular movement you enjoy is more important than ever before.
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Postpartum Movement and Exercise
Exercise proves to be a formidable ally in postpartum recovery. Enhancing cardiovascular health, rebuilding muscles strained during pregnancy, and addressing back issues from carrying your little one are a few perks. Movement triggers endorphins, nature's mood lifters, countering postpartum blues. Begin slowly, heed your body's signals, and consult your healthcare provider before altering your fitness routine. Hotmilk's Activewear Range will support you as you gain back your strength. Remember, it's not a race to 'bounce back'; it's a journey forward, at your pace, towards health and wellness.
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Investing in Quality Maternity Lingerie is Investing in Yourself!
Even though no one else can see it, you’ll be surprised to know how a good bra can boost your confidence. Whether at home, out and about, or at work, Hotmilk Lingerie has created comfortable supportive maternity lingerie that will give you power and motivation for the rest of the day. Vibrant colours, florals, and prints are uplifting. Solid colours like reds, purples, blues, or black can make you feel powerful. Beautiful, sexy, or powerful high-quality lingerie is about you and you only, how it makes you feel and elevates the mother in you.We love designing maternity lingerie that empowers. Here are just a few customer reviews, that give us all the feels.
"Obsessed with this bra! I have it in 2 colours, it is so comfortable and makes me feel sexy in my changing body! So happy I found hotmilk 😍" - Ellmarina M.
Elle ordered - Heroine Plunge Maternity Bra
"I'm in love with this bra! I'm actually back buying the skin coloured right now! I was so tired of feeling unattractive with my unboob nursing bras. This is so sexy and I can still nurse comfortably. I highly recommend" - Isabella
Isabella ordered - Temptation Powder Maternity Bra
"Beautiful, functional bra! The lace is nice and soft and doesn't irritate my pregnant breasts. I love that it is built to expand with nursing so I was able to buy it during pregnancy and should be able to use it after birth. I feel pretty, comfortable, and supported." - Stef M
Stef ordered - Warrior Soft Cup Maternity Bra
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Postpartum Nutrition - Feed your body with good stuff
Tiredness as a new mum can make thinking about food a chore, however, taking care of your body and mental health in the first weeks by eating nutritious food is super important for recovery and stabilising energy levels. In the early days focus on eating a balanced diet with lots of fruits, veggies, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Certain nutrients like iron, calcium, and omega-3s can be extra helpful during this time. Your body needs more energy when breastfeeding so eating small amounts can often be a great way to achieve this. Never turn away the offer of a home-cooked meal, an offer to pick up the groceries, or if possible engage in a meal service for those early days. If you have any specific dietary concerns, it's always a good idea to get professional medical advice from a dietitian or your healthcare provider.
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Sleep Deprivation with a Newborn is Brutal
We all know sleep is a luxury for new mums, sleepless nights are inevitable but finding ways to sneak in some rest and get decent sleep is crucial. In the early weeks, nap whenever you can, although this can get a little tricky if you have other children to care for as well. Alternatively, take time for a quick lie down without your mobile phone or social media as this can be just as reviving in the short term. Create a comfy sleep zone for yourself, try investing in a quality pillow and if possible lush linen to make your bed as inviting as possible. As new parents, you may not get long periods, but a serene zone will help give you a better quality of sleep (lush does not mean it has to be expensive). To help improve self-care, establish a bedtime routine, which could be herbal tea and a warm bath or reading a book in a quiet space. Detaching from daily life by avoiding social media and technology at least an hour before bed and trying relaxation techniques could also improve your sleep quality. You may find you need to go to bed earlier in the evening when your baby does just to keep up on sleep, do not try to keep to your old bedtimes by staying up later, especially in the early days. Don't be shy to ask your loved ones or other mums for help with baby duties, it is important to prioritize self-care in the early weeks so you can catch up on some much-needed shut eye.
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Time Out for New Mothers in Important
Schedule time in the calendar just like you would an appointment, creating a routine where you prioritise your health and emotions will positively flow onto your baby and family. Don’t feel guilty, find things that make you happy and relaxed. Take a break, take a walk no matter how short, take time for luxurious baths, dive into a captivating book, practice meditation or mindfulness, explore your creative side, or pursue hobbies that make you feel alive. Prioritise these moments of rejuvenation to recharge your batteries, connect with your awesome self, and feel confident in your new role.
