Most mothers go by the thumb’s rule of “Family first”. They do neglect taking care of their health to care for other members of the family. I have seen my mother toiling hard while growing up. When my child Penguin was born, I was unconsciously following the same pattern. The child comes first. Of course, they do, a newborn relies on parents, mostly mom. But what about a mom here? She had a 9 months long ordeal and post-childbirth she barely gets a breather. I remember eating way past noon for days when Penguin was an infant. Not to talk about the long nights and hours of breastfeeding sessions. I neglected my health. Repulsive reactions weren’t far behind. Those headaches, self-pity, confusion… I could have saved all that trouble if only I would have loved my “ME” time the way I do today. A.K.A the “Self-care” for a new mom.
When I first heard of the self-care ideas for moms, especially a new mom, I was utterly confused. Many spoke of the spa experience, aromatic candles, bubble bath. I felt perhaps I was kicked out of the planet. How on Earth was I supposed to get that? I can’t spend a bomb for a 20 minutes manicure experience. My monthly finance would be on fire considering I want to feel GOOD every day. Who would take care of the baby if I actually head out for retail therapy alone?
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It took me long (read years) to realize I don’t even need to spend on self-care. It can be done every day.
Self-care is a necessity, not an indulgence.
What is self-care?
Self-care is loving and prioritizing yourself. It is far more than going for an extended skincare routine. Counselling Psychologist Raphailia Michael says, “Self-care is any activity that we do deliberately in order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health.” It’s a discipline.
Self-care for a new mom. How?
Unwind
Relax your mind mamma. You can shut down all worries and do something you enjoy. Read a book even a couple of pages is fine. Try sketching if it helps. Anything that works for you. Knitting, Netflix, art. Put on some music and sway. Your choices are open.
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Ask for help and Delegate task
If you feel “in-control” on your own task, good. But lowering your standards would surely keep you charged for a little longer. Ask for help or hire one, if you can. Delegate the kitchen to your partner. Laundry for a friend. An African proverb says “It takes a village”. So, call in your tribe and sail. If it fits then go meet a friend or call her.
Go for a walk
Nothing refreshes more than the crisp fresh breeze, swaying trees and birds chirping. Once your doctor allows you, go for a walk. If you want, cover the baby weather-wise and take along. Absorb dose of Vitamin D. Give a stretch and take a long breath. Nature does have powers.
Be Mindful
It is natural to feel agitated with the loss of pre-baby freedom and surviving on just a few hours of sleep. A (new) mother might feel lost time and again. That’s when the life-skill of mindfulness comes to picture. Mindfulness in simple words is staying present, paying attention to the particular moment.
Practice mindful eating. Even the simplest task of making the tea can be done mindfully. Plan your meals including snacks. Nourish the body. Go to bed early. Strike off the to-do list use The Eisenhower Matrix. Divide the list as immediate-urgent, important but not urgent, not important but needs attention and not important-not urgent (a.k.a can be ignored).
Be kind to yourself.
Express your emotions without judging yourself. Accept help whenever offered. Remember #2 always.
Browsing the mobile phone while breastfeeding seems attractive, right? The keyword is moderation here. Also, try turning off app notifications and remove unwanted apps (including shopping apps), you don’t need to rush checking the mobile every time. Don’t compare yourself with other mothers on social media.
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What are your self-care ideas for all? Mom, not a mom, for all.
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These tips are perfect for new moms to pamper themselves and relax too. Will share with my friend.
Great Amrit
True Pragnya, Motherhood brings in a lot of change both physically and mentally and keeping good care of ourselves can really help us fight the postpartum changes and keep us happy
That’s true. If we are healthy and happy we can raise a happy child(ren)
After baby, life just takes a 360 degree turn and evrything becomes different. But during that period one should take care of yourself. Atleast do small small things that make you happy. Your tips will help the new moms for sure.
Happy to see you like them. Thank you Sayeri
I have realized self care is very important because there’s no one to look after us. And we need to take care for ourselves first.
Yes. First put the oxygen mask then help others in time of crisis.
I so agree with you on this — “Self-care is a necessity, not an indulgence”. It really is a must read post for all new moms out there.
Thank you Neha
Pragnya, these pointers are surely going to help many mothers who are very protective and perfectionist in their tasks. And a walk does wonders to make them feel fresh.
Nature like to say in your poems is so healing.
This is amazing list of ideas for self care actually new moms it is not luxury but a necessity.
Glad to hear the echo Judy
These activities are so important for new mom’s but they mostly aren’t usually followed. Giving time to yourself to unwind and recharge is crucial.
Totally agree Varsha.
I never get a chance as a new mom for selfcare but now I realise self-care is must a few minute of relaxation does not harm anyone
Now we can spread a word on its importance.
Totally agree. It’s important to get some time for yourself. When I had my twins… The whole family was involved. We took time out one by one.
Wow you had a great village to support you. Thanks for reading
I really think that new moms really need some self care and self pampering and you have really shared great tips here!!!
Thanks for reading Ruchie
This are some brilliant ideas for new mom. Often new mom ignores self care after the child birth. For a mother both physical as well as mental health matters the most for the overall well being of her family and kids.
Thanks for stopping by Hema
This post is so helpful for new moms and I can relate to how I felt when I was first time mom.. Thanks for sharing this..
Thanks for reading 🙂
I have witnessed this myself when my aunt was a new mom. To prevent neglection I must share this with my cousin who is a new mom!
That would help new moms avoiding the situation. Thank you
You are true, we often forget to take care of ourselves as a mother, the child takes the priority but the mother’s mental and physical health is as important as kids and family.
Glad you echo my thoughts 🙂
Walking saved my life really.Self care is very very important especially for new moms
Glad you found a way to help yourself.
I never took care of myself as a new mom dear and today when I see such beautiful advice from you all, I really feel how naive and ignorant I was. Great piece buddy
Let’s hope new moms take care of themselves. Thanks for sharing your story Roma.