Simple and Refreshing Postpartum Self-Care Reminders

You’ve waited many months for this time to come. The stages of carrying and nurturing your baby inside of you, and then bringing them earth-side have been accomplished. You now have life in your arms to watch over in very different ways than before. Now that they are here, the attention you paid to yourself has probably faded. You may start to realize you are increasingly overlooking yourself. When you feel you need some time alone or need to pay your mind and body some attention, be kind to yourself and give into your needs. Self-care is not selfish. 

• Sometimes it doesn’t take long to give to yourself - 15 minutes of quiet time while you sit outside and drink your coffee, 10 minutes to finally finish that first chapter in the book you’ve started, or maybe 5 minutes to pluck your eyebrows.
  
• Find a routine that works for you and your family. Your routine can be ever evolving. Start with the first thing that comes to mind when you think of having a routine. What do you want your morning routine to look like? Or maybe you want to start with your nighttime routine? Do you want to incorporate reading, stretching, or an evening bath into your schedule?
  
• Don’t turn away offerings when you could use them. It can be difficult to accept gifts, a meal, or someone’s time and assistance with the baby or with the house, but they are typically offered out of love by the people who care for you.
  
• If you are struggling with postpartum depression, let someone know. Reach out to someone you can talk with, even if that needs to be a professional. A support person can help talk through what you are feeling and experiencing, and support you in finding the right actions to take.
  
• Make sure you don’t lock yourself in the house, especially while trying to handle negative emotions. Plan an outing for at least once a week. Go on a date, shop with a friend, or take a walk at the park. Try to get some fresh air and have public interactions to avoid the house-lock feelings. 
  
• Having a creative outlet can be vital to some. If you are someone who needs to let your creative juices flow, then give yourself that time. It might seem like you’ll never have time to manage a painting or piano session, but once you find those few moments before bed to focus on it, you may really appreciate that you did. Journaling or coloring also go a long way! 
  
• Give your body the nutrients it needs! Write down the goals you have so that they won’t be forgotten. Nutritious foods, H2O, light exercise, and vitamins are some elements to think about.
  
• Treat yourself with a sweet. Try this delicious Vegan Coconut Oatmeal Cookie recipe!
  
• “Self-care” doesn’t have to be a bubble bath with candles and a glass of wine, but it sure can be! 
  
• Lastly, be accepting of yourself. Acknowledge your unique experiences and your postpartum recovery. Give yourself the credit you deserve!
  

The simultaneous processes that mothers go through during the postpartum stage can be demanding. Mental, physical, and emotional challenges and recovery can sneak up and last longer than they are expected to. Seek routines that work for you, find little daily rewards that encourage you, and determine what exactly self-care means to you.

More great ideas for postpartum self-care can be found here. 


Post by Andie Wise 


Photo by Jenna Norman on Unsplash