SELF-CARE TIPS FOR NEW MUMS

Once it’s spelled out, it’s clear to see that there are impossibly high expectations set for new mothers to bounce back, and that is exactly why postpartum self-care is of paramount importance.

It’s safe to say that giving birth to a child is extremely challenging. Then, immediately postpartum, there is a completely new person relying on you for the essentials of love, food and shelter. Meanwhile, you are only beginning the long process of recovering from labour. You may feel pressured into getting back on your feet and juggling all of your responsibilities as a mother, a partner and a friend, as well as jumping back into your career without missing a beat.

At times, even self-care can feel like work, so try to focus on building it piece by piece and don’t feel guilty if you haven’t established the ideal routine right from the get-go. The truth is that ideas of ‘perfect’ or ‘ideal’ are impossible to achieve and trying to do so will only really result in disappointment. Simply try your best and incorporate what you can. Above all, make space for yourself to be imperfect as you become accustomed to living with your new arrival!

PILLARS OF SELF-CARE

Self-care is not just limited to treating yourself to a spa day or a delicious brunch out. For new mums, it's often much more fundamental than that. Proper nutrition, sleep, mindfulness and exercise help to build a base from which you can gently get back into the swing of everyday life. While the more extravagant treatments shouldn't be overlooked, getting the basics right will stand to you in the long-term. Here are some tips to set you in the right direction.