1. Make sleep a priority
✔️Childbirth takes a toll on your body, and it’s understandable that rest is important for your physical recovery. But childbirth and caring for a newborn take an emotional toll, too, and here again, rest is paramount. Heed the old advice to sleep when your baby sleeps.
2. Commit to a healthy eating plan
✔️Healthy eating is certainly important during pregnancy, but it’s essential during the postpartum period. Your body needs plenty of nutrients to recover from pregnancy and childbirth, and optimizing your nutrition can help prevent depression and keep your energy level up.
3. Incorporate physical activity
✔️You need to take it easy right after giving birth so your body has the time and resources to heal. But once that initial recovery is complete, incorporating gentle exercise into your daily routine can reduce stress and boost your energy.
4. Make time for ‘me time’
✔️Caring for a newborn can be demanding, and it probably feels like there’s no time for you anymore. Still, it’s important to make some time for yourself every day during the weeks and months (and years!) after having a baby.
5. Ask for help
✔️Frustration doesn’t mean failure; every new mom feels frustrated from time to time. Finding support in these moments can give you the time to de-stress and overcome obstacles. Connecting with friends and family helps you get that support and avoid feeling isolated.