Becoming a new mom is an extraordinary journey filled with joy, challenges, and unparalleled love. Amidst the hustle of caring for your little one, it’s crucial to remember that your well-being is just as important. Here are some top self-care tips to help you find your zen as a new mum.
Finding Your Zen: Top Self-Care Tips for New Moms
1. Prioritise Sleep When You Can
Sleep might seem like a distant memory, but it's a pillar of self-care. Try to sync your sleep schedule with your baby and don’t hesitate to take naps together. Admittedly this can be a little bit hard at first when EVERYONE wants to visit. And what do they do? Stay whilst the baby is napping, and leave once they wake up. Thanks for that.
2. Eat Well to Feel Well
Nutrition is vital for recovery and energy. Keep simple, nutritious snacks on hand and stay hydrated. Easier said than done when sometimes you just want to consume any food that you can find. Don't be afraid to ask someone to help when it comes to cooking healthy meals.
3. Establish a Support System
Lean on family, friends, or local mom groups. It's okay to ask for help - it takes a village, after all! These days online communities can be just as beneficial as local groups, so find support online if you can't access local support.
4. Gentle Movement
Physical activity is a cornerstone of self-care, but as a new mom, it's important to ease into it and listen to your body. Gentle movement can improve circulation, boost mood, and help in regaining strength after childbirth.
Try strolls with the pram - or whilst baby wearing - postnatal yoga, stretching, or at home workouts.
5. Mindfulness and Meditation
In the whirlwind of new motherhood, mental and emotional self-care are as essential as the physical. Meditation is a powerful tool for achieving a state of calm and can be particularly beneficial for mothers navigating the stresses and joys of caring for a newborn. Just five minutes of meditation can act as a mental reset, reducing anxiety and enhancing overall well-being.
Meditation doesn't require hours of silence or perfect peace; it's about grounding yourself in the present moment, which can be especially grounding when life with a little one can feel unpredictable. You can meditate while feeding your baby, listening to their gentle breaths, or even during those rare moments of solitude.
6. Create a Soothing Atmosphere
The ambiance of your surroundings can have a profound impact on your emotional state, especially during the transformative period of new motherhood. Creating a peaceful environment at home is a form of self-care that benefits both you and your baby. A serene space can help soothe an overstimulated mind and promote feelings of tranquility and safety.
Try and go with soft soothing music, comfortable seating and support - especially when feeding - clutter free space, warm lighting, and personal touches by way of artwork or photos. It's all about what makes YOU feel soothed and calm.
7. Me Time
Set aside time for activities you enjoy, whether it's a hobby or simply a long shower.
It's very easy to get caught up in the new demands of motherhood and totally forget about yourself, but you need to remember that you're still important too.
8. Embrace the Power of Reading
Finally, as the evening winds down and you've tucked your little one in, it's time to rejoice in the power of a good book.
We actually go one step further with our Story Time Candles as we not only give you a book to read, but also a candle to add to the soothing atmosphere.
Our candles are designed to be paired with your chosen book to accompany you on your literary journey. This ritual is your cue to unwind, to steal a few precious moments where you are the protagonist in your own story of calm and comfort.
Remember, self-care isn't selfish; it's a necessity. As a new mom, taking care of yourself is part of taking care of your baby. Each act of self-care is a stepping stone to finding your zen in the beautiful chaos of motherhood.