If you recently became a mom and you’re currently breastfeeding your baby, you may be feeling drained of energy or even frazzled. Although feeling tired is normal after giving birth, breastfeeding can take additional energy, and during this time, it’s more crucial than ever to ensure you’re taking care of yourself as well as your child. Fortunately, even if you’re short on time, these six self-care steps can help ensure you stay well, wherever you and your child are making your home.
1. Relieve Environmental Stress by Taking the Time To Declutter and Freshen Up Your Home
If you’re living in a messy or hectic environment, you may find it difficult to unwind and feel calm. It’s important to address this type of environmental stress and similar issues now in order to ensure a soothing environment for you and your child.
You can start by focusing your energies on creating a healthier, more healing atmosphere at home. Consider redecorating with positive elements, such as plants and bright colors, that can lift your spirits. You could also declutter, deep-clean, or reorganize your home to reap such benefits as peace of mind and a sense of calm.
2. Make Breastfeeding a Little More Comfortable by Being Proactive
According to one study, breastfeeding can be difficult, stressful, and even painful, so it’s important to take early steps to ensure your and your child’s comfort. This step can help you enjoy your bonding time with your little one more, and ensure you don’t experience needless discomfort. Keep your nursery stocked with:
- Nursing pillows
- Cozy blankets
- Breastfeeding-friendly tank tops
- Snapless nursing bras designed for comfort
- Nursing pads
If you’re also recovering from a C-section, be sure to add some comfortably designed underwear to your closet as well. Your comfort is important, too. New motherhood is already stressful enough.
3. Revitalize Your Work-Life Balance To Reduce Your Overall Stress Levels
If you’ve already returned to work after having your child, you may find that trying to balance your work schedule with caring for your little one is leading to a hectic and stressful result. While you’re breastfeeding, however, it’s especially important to try to get those stress levels down.
One way to do this is to get your work-life balance back to a better place. If your boss is overloading you with extra work, you may need to say “no” and turn some of it down. Consider whether you can delegate any tasks to other colleagues or subordinates. Additionally, prioritizing your everyday tasks with a to-do list could help.
4. Lean on Your Closest Networks for the Support You Need in This Time
Sometimes, self-care can be as simple as airing out your feelings with a friend. Leaning on your support networks is especially vital during this time. Try chatting with friends once a day or asking your partner for help when you need it. Your network could extend to:
- Friends and family
- Romantic partners
- Counselors
- Online support groups
- Local mom groups
5. Take Some Time Off for Yourself Once in a While
Lastly, just because you’re a mom now doesn’t mean you don’t deserve some “me time”! Consider getting a babysitter at least once a month and take some personal time. Even if you can’t take time off, you can incorporate “me time” into your day. For instance, you can easily practice self-care at home by:
- Staying hydrated
- Taking a daily shower
- Eating tasty and nutritious meals
6. Work With a Lactation Consultant
Hiring a lactation consultant from Healthy Babies Happy Families to help with breastfeeding can offer you peace of mind and extra confidence during this special time. These professionals are experts in the area, who can provide detailed information about different milk types, finding the right position for nursing, understanding how to read your baby’s hunger cues, and many other important aspects of breastfeeding. On top of that, they are able to troubleshoot any issues that might arise along the way, assisting you in providing your baby with all of the nutrients needed for healthy growth and development.
For new moms who are breastfeeding, just getting through the day can take a lot of energy. During this time, it’s more important than ever to make sure you’re looking after yourself whether you’re investing in a comfortable bra, taking time off work, or leaning on your support network. These six simple self-care steps can help.