Baby has arrived and excitement levels are at an all time high. Your focus each day is on your new little one, but it is important to remember yourself too. In fact, taking care of yourself once your baby has arrived is even more important than ever before.
Self-care is not a new topic, but at times of transition in our lives, self-care really should become a top priority.
"You cannot pour from an empty cup."
We hear this all the time from the media, friends and family. And it's so true. You cannot give to others what you don't have.
So take some time, even in the midst of your hectic life, to fill up your cup. For yourself and for your family.
Here are 6 self care tips that you can do today to fill up your cup:
ENLIST HELP: Have you been getting lots of offers to help out since your baby was born? Everyone seems to want to help out and while it can be overwhelming to have others around right now, we suggest that you take the help. Let them bring you meals, run errands, do laundry or entertain your older children. Whatever it is that is being offered, say yes. You don't need to do it all.
TAKE A SHOWER: You often hear new moms say that they can't find time to take a shower but it's amazing how this simple pleasure in life really can make a difference in your day. Take 15 minutes for a quick refresh when baby is napping and enjoy a hot shower or bath.
SAVOUR YOUR BABY: There will always be laundry to do, errands to run, a house to clean. This time with your newborn will not always be there. Spend as much guilt-free time with your baby as you want. Enjoy a nap together, have some snuggles on the couch, or have some play time with your baby.
MAKE TIME FOR YOU: You love spending time with your baby, but don't forget how it feels to have time for yourself. Go to the gym or get your hair done while someone you trust watching your baby. Even a quick trip to the grocery store can count as time alone!
SET BOUNDARIES: You've accepted help (remember our first point) but that doesn't mean that you've opened your doors to everyone for everything. Each day with baby will be a new experience and if you're not up for visitors, that's okay! If you had a sleepless night and can't imagine facing visitors, reschedule the visit without feeling guilty. Your family and friends will understand.
SCHEDULE TIME TO EAT: It can be easy to forget to eat when you have a newborn attached to you and possibly you have other children to care for to. Remember that you need to keep nourishing your body regularly to keep up with the new demands on your body. Eating will help you feel energized and running throughout the day.