Self Care for Mama’s
I know what you are thinking… I have to change diapers, burp baby, pump and feed, do laundry, clean the house, cook dinner, feed the dog, and you are asking me to take a nap or go for a walk?!
When you think of the word “self care” you may also think of the word “selfish”. As a society, we think by doing self care we aren’t thinking of others, when in fact you are! Let’s be real, you can’t take care of your baby unless you take care of yourself. I always emphasized to moms when I visited them on the mother baby units or during a follow-up call “Are you doing any self care? What are you doing for yourself?” The more energy you put out, the more energy you need to put back into yourself. Your fumes will eventually run out, leaving you feeling more irritable, tired, angry, or overly emotional. This is why it is so important to pour back into yourself and fill your cup up.
Again, I know you’re still probably thinking “That’s great, but I just don’t have the time for any self care.” I hear you! But self care doesn’t have to be a long and strenuous task. Self care means you are doing something that provides you inner peace and comfort, a mindless activity to ensure you clear your head, reset yourself, and get the dopamine flowing. Your self care can be something small and simple like doing some mindfulness allowing you to take in your sights, smells, sounds, and textures around you. Taking deep breaths to help relieve stress. Listening to your favorite song in the car or a podcast while doing laundry. It can be watching your favorite show while feeding or pumping, journaling at night, or reading a book. Take a walk outside or keep it simple and step outside for some fresh air.
Let’s not forget the dads! While most dads return back to work sooner than most moms, they are undergoing just as much stress and pressure. It is crucial dads implement selfcare as well so they don’t feel overwhelmed and burned out. To all my dads out there, I will emphasize the same thing: “self care is not selfish, take time for you!”.
It’s also helpful to take time as a couple. Have a trusted family member or good friend watch your baby (trust me, they WANT to spend time with your baby!) and take some time together.
No matter what you do, give yourself grace and permission to allow some time for yourself throughout the day. If you are needing more coping skill ideas, check out our resource page for helpful coping skills ideas during parenthood!
<3 Michelle
