Peace on Earth: Self-care for New Parents During the Holidays
Bringing a new baby home is a beautiful experience, but it can also be a significant transition. If you add the normal hustle, bustle, and stress of the holidays, self care becomes even more essential to new parents. Here are a few gentle reminders to help you survive—and thrive—during the holidays.
Pay attention to your body. Make sure eating, sleeping, and staying hydrated are among your priorities each day.
To do this, you might have to say “no” (even to a wonderful invitation) to some things and take people up on their offer to help you.
Try to walk outdoors, shower, and put on “real clothes” each day. It’s funny that this can feel like a challenge, especially in the early days of bringing a new baby home. But getting ready each day—even if you are just going to stay home—goes a long way!
Refresh and build up your spirit through prayer, meditation, or reading.
Connect with friends by phone or text or social media platform. You may need to stick close to home, but talking with a friend can help you feel less isolated and more “yourself.”
Listen to a podcast or audiobook. This can feed your brain while you feed, rock, or walk your baby!
Finally, keep a journal. You can write to your baby, you can write your feelings and concerns, or you can write notes to your future self about what you are learning with this baby. Many experts say writing down your concerns and thoughts down just before bed helps you get perspective on your day and rest better.
We know that taking care of a baby and yourself can be challenging. That’s why Tennessee Family Doulas offers postpartum support in the form of in-home and overnight care for moms and newborns. Our support is tailored for your family but typically includes feeding support, newborn comfort techniques, birth recovery support, sleep support, meal preparation, sibling care, and light household support! We would love to connect with you!
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