Don’t compare
Each and every baby is different, just like every household and life journey. If you have more than one child, you’ll know how different even they can be! Comparing you and your baby to others will only create stress you don’t need. You are a beautiful, capable, competent mother. If you’re having difficulty at any time, focus on one task at a time, and ask for help when you need it – people understand! Every household has its ups and downs but not everyone “shows” it as it is. Don’t turn to social media for comparisons, just focus on you and your precious one, the perfect little team. Remember, they chose you for a reason!
Be gentle with yourself
Every mama has times when they feel they can’t cope. Times when sleep deprivation reaches a whole new level and a crying baby makes them want to run for the hills. We’ve all been there. Remember, you are doing the best you can in the best possible way. When you’re in the first weeks or months of your baby’s life, it’s hard to imagine a time when things will be different – but they change before you know it. These days are challenging and being on demand 24/7 is hard work and something you’ve never done before. But these days are also beautiful so celebrate the little wins (that are actually huge!) because it’s those magic moments that will get you through. As you fiercely and unconditionally love your baby, keep in mind the saying – “We can’t pour from an empty cup.” Be kind to yourself.
Don’t turn to social media for comparisons, just focus on you and your precious one, the perfect little team. Remember, they chose you for a reason!
Get sunshine and fresh air
Here in New Zealand, we’re blessed with loads of sunshine – even in winter. If you enjoy the outdoors, get outside with your baby or on your own – even if it’s just to your backyard. Turn your face to the sun and soak up all that beautiful vitamin D. Take a deep hearty breath, pause, then exhale all the tension of the day. Daily walks after the first 40 days (or when it’s right for you) can be life saving. Find someone to be your walking buddy. It’s not only a gentle way of introducing exercise to your beautiful postpartum body, it will make you feel good to walk under the sun with a soul sister (who’s no doubt as sleep deprived as you are!).
Originally published HERE.
Márta Willis is the owner of LunaBloom, Nelson’s pregnancy and postpartum health specialized sanctuary. She’s passionate about pregnancy, birthing and motherhood and has spent the last 17 years working as a massage therapist, but is also a qualified midwife, hypnobirthing instructor, reiki practitioner (and more!). Marta specialises in pre- and post-natal massage therapy, holistic childbirth preparation, postpartum doula support, postpartum mother honouring, and sacred sealing ceremonies for new mothers.
