The Best Ways to Practice Self-care During Postpartum

Estimated read time: 10 minutes

Ok, Mama. Postpartum can be rough. Let's talk about self-care to help you through this time.

Postpartum can be a challenging time for new mothers. You are adjusting to the many demands of caring for a newborn all while managing your own physical and emotional recovery.

You have just given birth and you are healing, you are learning to breastfeed, and sleep deprivation is real. You are juggling all the things and taking care of a new life. We are not going to sugarcoat it – this is hard. As challenging as it may sound, try your best to take care of yourself. Now more than ever, it is important to practice self-care. 

Self-care is essential during this time, as it can help you to feel more supported and rested. It's important to be aware of and look out for potential challenges during this time, to ensure a smooth and healthy recovery.

What is self-care and what does self-care mean?

Self-care is an essential part of maintaining one's overall well-being and can be especially important during postpartum. It's important to remember that self-care should be a priority and can take many forms.

Self-care refers to the specific actions and habits that individuals engage in to preserve or improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. There are many practices, including healthy habits such as exercise, eating well, and getting enough sleep, as well as activities that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and self-expression.

Why is self-care important during postpartum?

Now we know what is self-care is, so why is it important? Becoming a mom can be quite stressful. Self-care is important because it helps us to manage stress, cope with the challenges of caring for a newborn, and maintain overall health and well-being. Practicing self-care can also boost your mood, increase your energy levels, and improve your overall quality of life.

When it comes to self-care during your postpartum recovery there are some things to keep on your radar: 

• Physical recovery: Pay attention to any physical symptoms, such as excessive bleeding, pain, or discomfort, and report them to your doctor as soon as possible.

• Emotional well-being: Be mindful of your mood and emotions and be on the lookout for signs of postpartum depression or anxiety. The “baby blues” are common, and there is help available.

• Sleep deprivation: Lack of sleep can be a major challenge for new mothers, and can contribute to feelings of fatigue, stress, and mood changes. This one is hard to avoid since the baby is still adjusting to life outside of the womb. Try to rest whenever you can.

• Body image changes: Many new mothers experience changes to their body after giving birth, which can impact their self-esteem and body image. Reminder: You are beautiful and just created life.

• Breastfeeding struggles: Breastfeeding can be a new and challenging experience, and it's important to be aware of common breastfeeding struggles and seek help for any difficulties or challenges.

• Relationships: Postpartum can put a strain on relationships, both with partners and other family members. This is super common, due to all the changes. Talk therapy can be a wonderful resource.

By staying attuned to these postpartum challenges and seeking support as needed, it will help you navigate postpartum and lay a strong foundation for your and your baby's well-being.

What are postpartum self-care ideas?

As a new mom, you are mentally managing a lot as it is. So let us take away some of your mental load. By practicing self-care, we can show ourselves the love and care that we deserve.

Here are some self-care examples for you to practice self-care during postpartum:

#1 Connect with loved ones.

Spending time with loved ones is an important aspect of self-care. When you are constantly tending to your baby, you may start to lose touch with the outside world. Whether it’s with a close friend, a family member, or your significant other, spend time with people you care about. Grab a coffee together, even if it is at your dining room table, and talk.

#2 Prioritize your needs.

 

One of the best ways you can practice postpartum self-care is to ask for help. This can be a really hard one because asking for help does not always come naturally. Prioritizing your health and wellness is essential during postpartum. Communicate your needs, ask for help, and set boundaries.

#3 Treat yourself.

Treat yourself to something that you enjoy, whether it's a spa day, a new book, a gift just for you, or a delicious meal. Remember, self-care is all about taking care of yourself, so indulge in something that makes you happy. 

#4 Practice mindfulness.

Mindfulness is an essential aspect of self-care. Take time to be present in the moment, and to focus on your thoughts and feelings. This can be done through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a walk in nature. Walking with your baby outside in the fresh air can make a significant difference.

#5 Be kind to yourself.

Be kind and compassionate to yourself, and remember that self-care is a journey, not a destination. It's important to be patient and understanding with yourself, and to remember that it's ok if you are having a hard time. You are not alone and the postpartum period is only temporary.

Self-care Examples for New Moms

If you are looking for specific self-care examples. We put together a list of self-care ideas for you to try:

1. Ask for help: Reach out to a family member or friend and communicate your needs. It may be a meal that they could arrange, or help to look for postpartum care like a lactation consultant or night nurse.

2. Take a relaxing bath or shower: Light a candle, put on a calming playlist, add some essential oils, Epsom salts, or bubble bath to create a spa-like experience.

3. Practice yoga or meditation: Find a quiet place to sit or lie down and focus on your breath or listen to a guided meditation.

4. Get some exercise: Take a walk, run, hike, swim, bike, or engage in any other form of physical activity that you enjoy.

5. Arrange for a babysitter: Have someone watch your little one for a few hours during the day so you can focus on yourself.

6. Read a book: Curl up with a good book and lose yourself in the story.

7. Listen to music or a podcast: Put on your favorite music or podcast and relax.

8. Write in a journal: Write down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

9. Spend time in nature: Go for a walk in a park, forest, or by the ocean.

10. Cook or bake: Make your favorite meal or try a new recipe

11. Spend quality time with loved ones: Connect with friends, family, or loved ones.

12. Hire a cleaning service: A clean, decluttered, and organized space can make you feel calmer and in control.

13. Treat yourself: Buy yourself a small postpartum gift or indulge in a favorite activity, such as a massage or a trip to the salon.

14. Take a nap: Cozy up with warm socks and comfy blanket and rest your eyes.

15. Practice gratitude: Make a daily gratitude list, focusing on the things you are thankful for.

16. Take a break from technology and social media: Set aside time to disconnect from the constant stream of information and notifications. 

Postpartum isn't forever.

This postpartum time can be really challenging. Keep in mind, it won’t always be this way. It will get better. This is a fragile time and it is so important to take care of yourself. Remember that self-care is different for everyone, so it's important to find activities that work for you and make you feel good. It's also important to make self-care a regular practice, and not just something you do when you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed. That way it will be part of your routine.

If you need some extra encouragement, check out our Need a Lift cards and join our Instagram and TikTok communi-Titties. 

 

At Titty City Design, we believe that every boobie is beautiful, and that should be celebrated. We are a female-owned and operated, small business here to spread self-love and body positivity with our line of boob apparel, boob accessories, and boob-themed decor and products for the home. A portion of our proceeds goes to help support postpartum people and breast cancer patients.

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