Post-Patrum Series 2: "The Best Time of your Life"

The nest post-partum issue I want to discuss, is the pressure to be in LOVE with all aspects of motherhood. Think about all the postures you see of breastfeeding mothers with huge smiles on their faces, new mothers full of love holding their littles, or even picture perfect mothers with great hair, and no dark circles. This is also not a reality for a lot of new moms. I am not saying all new moms are not in love with their babies. We are in love them, however, we also miss sleep, struggle with feeding issues, are often covered in spit up.  I want to take a moment to say, “IT IS OK to feel these things!”  Caregiver Fatigue applies when taking care of your children. There is nothing wrong with hating breastfeeding, hating staying up all night, and even hating the laundry that has piled up over the last few days. Society expects us to be perfect, have a perfect house, and immediately know how to be mom. I firmly believe there is a steep learning curve when having a baby. New moms, you are doing an amazing job! Your baby thinks you’re the most amazing person in the world, and guess what you are! Even if you feel overwhelmed and drained. That does not make you less of an amazing mother! Here are a few tips to improve your feelings of being overwhelmed.

1. Take a Break- Everyone loves a new baby, and everyone loves to offer help. Do not be afraid to take them up on this offer. If someone offers to do your dishes, let them. If someone offers to hold you baby for 30 minutes so you can nap, let them! If you don’t have anyone to offer help, you can still take a break. Lay your baby down for 15 minutes, stretch, take a shower, and eat something. This will help you feel rejuvenated, and less overwhelmed.
2. Prioritize- Make a list of things you NEED to get done every day, and place them in order of importance. For a new mom, this may just be eat, sleep, and take care of baby.  Having a list of priories, will help you balance your needs and wants.
3. Me Time- Take a few moments each day to have some alone time. This can occur after bedtime, or before baby wakes for the day. This can be as simple as drinking your morning coffee alone, or having a glass of wine before bed. Find something that you can enjoy, just for you. Even if it’s only for 10 minutes a day!
4. Do something just for you: Take time out of your day to solely focus on your needs. This does not have to be a time consuming, costly event. Find 10 minutes to do something you enjoy. This can be something as small as, drinking your coffee, writing in a journal, walking outside, anything you find relaxing.