Preparing for life with a newborn seems straightforward, but it’s actually quite challenging. All babies are different, and you won’t know what your recovery process will be like until you’re in it. Add on top of that the scariness of becoming a new mom! These postpartum recovery tips will help you navigate this tough period.
Nourish Your Body
It may seem like a simple task, but forgetting to eat is something many new moms struggle with. They may have to remain perfectly still underneath a sleeping baby, become busy tackling other chores, or fail to notice their own hunger cues.
Try setting a timer to remind yourself to grab a nourishing snack or meal. Check with yourself when you get up to change your baby’s diaper. Drink plenty of fluids along with eating food. Keep a basket nearby with snacks and a water bottle you can enjoy while feeding your baby. Grab the basket before you sit down to breast or bottle feed so that you can nourish yourself while you nourish your baby.
Ask for Help
Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your parents, siblings, in-laws, friends, trusted neighbors, or anyone in your circle. This step is a crucial part of maintaining your mental, physical, and emotional well-being after giving birth. It gives you and your partner a break and allows you to provide your baby with the rest they need. These guests can help with simple household chores such as washing dishes, transferring the washed clothes into the dryer, or folding and putting away laundry.
Rest and Relax
Sleeping when the baby sleeps may be challenging, but you need to place importance on allowing your body to recover. Relaxation is essential to a successful postpartum recovery. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Ask your partner to watch the baby for a few hours while you take a nap. After you put the baby down for a nap, take a soak in the bathtub.
Don’t worry about dusting, scrubbing the floors, or doing other household chores. These things aren’t as important as your health. Allowing your body to rest and recover will help reduce your postpartum back pain and other ailments you may feel.
Your recovery matters. Remembering these postpartum recovery tips will help every new mom with this challenging process. Give yourself grace, and use this time to bond with your lovely new baby. After all, you want to be healthy and happy for your newborn!
