Self-Care Ideas for New Moms
by
Emily Graham | Mighty Moms
As a new mom, most of your focus is probably on your baby. However, it’s also important to take time for yourself. Self-care has become increasingly popular over the past years. It isn’t as simple as just taking a relaxing bubble bath or applying a face mask. As this Psychology Today article explains, “Truly adopting self-care is a lifestyle change.” By ensuring you are as healthy and happy as can be, you are giving your child the best mom possible. Get started by adopting the below self-care suggestions.
Get Your Rest
If you don’t get enough sleep, you aren’t alone: One in three Americans don’t snooze enough at night. When you have a new baby crying for attention, it gets even more difficult to fit in the recommended seven hours. Switch off nights with your partner for handling baby’s needs. Without sufficient sleep, your brain doesn’t function as well, impeding your ability to pay attention, make decisions, and think creatively. Your physical health may also suffer as well; according to Live Science, ongoing sleep deficiency has been connected to serious illnesses like an increased risk of heart disease.
If you have trouble drifting off at night, reexamine your bedroom environment. Create a cozy space with plenty of plush pillows and lush sheets. This article from the Better Sleep Council has a comprehensive list of tips, such as getting a white noise machine and ensuring your room is at the optimal temperature for sleeping (65 degrees Fahrenheit).
Break a Sweat
Exercise boosts endorphins, the feel-good hormones that keep you smiling. With post-pregnancy hormones in full swing, this is a must. Breaking a sweat regularly also improves your circulatory function and alleviates stress. It’s also a positive step toward shedding the baby weight and getting in shape.
If you are not big on exercise, consider a low-impact option like yoga. This is easy on the joints while building strength and flexibility. Research has also shown that people who practice yoga a minimum of three times each week tend to have lower blood pressure. Elevated blood pressure can lead to cardiovascular problems like heart attack.
When looking for a yoga studio in your area, consider your personal needs. Are you a beginner, or do you already have some previous experience? Do you have old injuries that might limit your activity? Are you interested in “hot yoga”? Modern studios offer a diversity of options, even including postnatal yoga for new moms.
Invest in Your Appearance
When you feel good about the way you look, you feel good about yourself in general. As a mom, you don’t always have time to get glammed up. One easy way to cut down on your beauty routine while looking great is to get eyelash extensions. They eliminate the need for eye makeup and allow you to look fresh-faced from the second you wake up.
However, keep in mind that if not applied correctly, eyelash extensions can do damage. Only trust an experienced professional. Unhygienic standards may cause infections of the cornea and swollen eyelids. Check out this Allure article to find out how to make your extensions last; tips include everything from sleeping on your back to combing them. It’s also a good idea to read reviews and recommendations about extensions before selecting a brand.
There are many other small ways to invest in your appearance and boost self-confidence. If you usually wear muted tones, for instance, try incorporating bright colors into your outfits to stand out and improve your mood. Look here for some more easy ideas, such as improving your posture and installing flattering lighting at home.
Be Patient
Start by implementing the above self-care tips gradually. If you don’t exercise at all right now, for example, begin by going just twice per week and then gradually ramp up the frequency. Give your mind and body time to adapt as you incorporate self-care into your motherhood journey. This isn’t about quick fixes but about creating a lasting lifestyle.
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