Life with a new baby, or a baby of any age, isn’t easy. It can get overwhelming, particularly when you are struggling to find the time to take care of yourself as you need to.
If you want to better manage the stress of having a baby, the most important thing you can do is actively make time to look after yourself, even when it seems easier not to.
Many parents struggle with taking time for themselves because they feel as though they are being selfish, but the truth is that making time to look after yourself and manage your stress will make you a happier person and a better parent.
Hire a babysitter
You don’t have to wait until you’re going on a big night out to hire a babysitter. Having someone come and take over responsibility for your child for a few hours can be a great way to give yourself some peace.
Take yourself for a walk, attend a class or read your book – take the time to do something just for you.
Sleep
It’s tempting to stay up late once your children have gone to bed because it feels as though that’s the only time you get to yourself.
If you can, it’s better to try and get yourself and your children into a sleep routine. It will keep your children in a better mood, and it will mean that you’re better able to manage stress.
To give yourself a better chance of a good night’s sleep, it’s important to keep screens out of the bedroom, as the blue light they emit simulates sunlight and fools your brain into thinking you should be awake.
Some people also find that natural remedies like CBD edibles are helpful as they aid with relaxation, which naturally promotes better sleep. However, it’s worth noting that there isn’t evidence to back up this claim. Therefore, if you do decide to use CBD edibles, you must speak with your doctor first to ensure that it’s the right thing for you.
Hydrate
Important for everyone, but particularly for breastfeeding mothers, ensuring that you stay hydrated means that your body is balanced and working as it should be.
Even just a little dehydration has strong links to negative impacts on mood, and as breast milk is eighty-seven per cent water, it’s easy to see how new mothers can quickly be affected.
Try keeping a sports bottle nearby, and sip from it often.
Exercise
You might not have the time to do a long workout, but even a short walk will have an enormous positive impact on your mood and overall wellbeing.
Exercise releases dopamine in the body, which is instrumental in feelings of happiness. It will also help keep you in good physical shape.
Seek support
All new parents experience a rollercoaster of emotions, particularly mothers, as their body adjusts to having given birth. So, it’s normal to feel as though you are having ups and downs as you get used to having a new family member.
While it’s normal, that doesn’t mean it isn’t really tough. If you’re struggling, reach out to your doctor or to local support groups for help. You don’t have to battle through on your own; you can be struggling and still be a fantastic parent.
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