Pregnancy is a wonderful and exciting journey filled with many emotions. You’ve been eating for two, planning for two, and finally welcomed your new baby! Obviously, it’s easy to get caught up in the new baby’s well-being, but protecting your health is very important too.
Self-care doesn’t always mean spa visits and facials. It is making sure you put yourself first! We are going to give you some easy ways to exercise self-care during the first year of being a new mom.
Food Choices
Nourish your body by choosing the right foods for you and what your body just went through. Focusing on the right nutrients is essential during postpartum. Filling your plate with enough vegetables, fruits, and healthy proteins is crucial. Remember, you are feeding a baby too if you decide to breastfeed. Powerhouse foods like avocados, blueberries, salmon, and spinach are good for you and your nutrition levels. The great news is these foods also boost energy levels!
Permission To Rest
With all the stress of a newborn and all the changes your body went through, you’ll need to rest. Of course, friends and family will also be asking you pressing questions like, “when can I see the baby?” or “How did your pregnancy go?” It can feel like you never stop stressing about the next stage, but take a deep breath and relax. It’s important to set boundaries and give yourself permission to say no to anything that doesn’t serve your best interest.
Sleep, meditate, read or binge-watch your favorite Netflix series––whatever it takes to help you unwind is necessary. Try to schedule a rest day during your week or focus on giving yourself at least an hour each day to recharge.
Stay Active
As you’re now in charge of a newborn baby, trying to exercise may be the last thing on your mind. However, the benefits of moving your body are unmatched. Even 20 minutes of light aerobic activity will give you those wonderful benefits. There are safe activities you can take part in, like walking, yoga, and swimming if you’re still not ready for anything rigorous. Additionally, you can research to find mommy workout groups in your area–that way you can meet new mommies and feel comfortable as you’re working out. Be sure to change any positions or strenuous moves if you need to. You may also want to check in with your doctor to ensure your exercise is safe for you.
Create Your Own Spa Day
Why spend the big bucks on a spa outing when you can recreate it yourself? If you have a bathtub, you can play your favorite relaxing tunes and take a much-needed bath. Afterward, you can use a face mask or exfoliate and nourish your beautiful skin. Taking the time to relax and while also treating your skin is an excellent idea!
Be Kind To Yourself
Your body just went through so many changes in the past couple of months that you should be proud of yourself, but also gentle with yourself. Postpartum depression is a real thing. If you need to seek postpartum depression treatment, do it. There is no shame in understanding you may not be completely back to your pre-baby self and that is alright. Moms are amazing and don’t forget that!
Get Out In Nature
Being outside is equally important as taking care of yourself from the inside. It is said that spending time in nature will reduce your cortisol levels and calm your mind. This is also a great way to incorporate your exercise. You can take a walk or hike in the forest or near a body of water. Breathing the fresh air and listening to the calm noises of the trees is sure to reduce your stress levels. All you need is a spot near your home that you can drive to and some comfortable shoes. If you have a dog or walking partner, they can join you too!
Unplug For A Day
Let’s be honest, our phones can make us anxious sometimes. From emails, texts, and news–information overload is surely an issue. If you can plan a detox day, it can help you reconnect with the people who are most important to you.
