Self-care doesn’t always come easily, especially for new parents. As a breastfeeding mother, you may be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or both, and that can make taking care of yourself extra difficult. When all your time and energy is focused on the baby, it’s easy to forget about your own needs, but there are some simple things you can do to prevent burnout. Joining the blog community is a great start, and you can find tons of great advice and tips for all things related to parenting as you browse my site.
Treat yourself to some new clothes
Motherhood comes with a lot of changes and they can take a toll on your body. Comfortable clothing is a must, especially in the first months after you give birth. Look for easy, breathable items that will allow you to keep your style, such as patterned leggings, tunics, and high-waisted underwear that smooths and flatters. You can also look for cute pajamas and loungewear for the early days after the baby comes when all you want to do is relax at home.
Create a portable well-station
While you’re home, it’s a good idea to set up a portable well-station that can be kept near your favorite chair or moved to different spots around the house when you breastfeed. This is a great way to create a little self-care even while you’re taking care of the baby’s needs. Your kit should hold lip balm, an extra burp cloth, nipple salve, baby wipes, and any other supplies you might need at arm’s length; I have compiled a group of wonderful products to try.
It’s also a good idea to keep a large cup of water nearby so you can stay hydrated; look for an insulated bottle that holds a good amount, and refill it throughout the day. This is an easy way to remember how much you’ve had to drink to ensure you’re getting enough fluids.
Eat right
Just as you need to make sure you’re getting enough water, you also need to eat enough of the right nutrients and calories while you’re breastfeeding. If you’re unsure of where to begin, talk to your doctor and work out a plan for your diet. It may be tricky at first to find the right balance, since losing weight too quickly can have a negative effect on your milk supply; however, you typically can’t go wrong with proteins and healthy fats, such as those found in nuts and avocados. Berries, green leafy vegetables, and seeds are also great for breastfeeding moms.
Stay connected
Having a newborn can be a bit restrictive when it comes to going out, especially for breastfeeding moms who are focused on getting into a routine. That’s why it’s so important to make an effort to stay connected to your friends and loved ones, who can offer support or just a kind ear as you get used to balancing everything. Consider using a video chat app on your phone to stay in touch with your family members and to give them updates on the baby’s growth and milestones; read reviews to find the best one for your device. This is a great way to get some facetime with the people you enjoy most if you’re not ready to get out and about.
Taking care of yourself when you have so many things to think about can be a challenge, but doing so will help you be the best parent you can be. Take moments of rest when you can find them, and pamper yourself in small ways throughout the day in order to recharge.
Attribution
Written by guest author, Karen Weeks
Photo via Pixabay
