Self-Care Tips and Ideas for Postpartum Mamas

As moms, we know that postpartum isn’t easy to navigate. In fact, both of us being in the throes of postpartum currently is giving us a fresh perspective on the challenges that women face after having babies and what our bodies go through to get them here! It’s the most incredible, magical, amazing, exhausting, and difficult time all in one. After you give birth, not only do you physically have a dinner plate sized wound inside of you now that needs to heal, you also have an incredible surge of hormones that will make you feel completely unattached to yourself some days, and the happiest you’ve ever been on others. What a roller coaster! 

We wanted to put together some ideas for other moms to feel inspired and enlightened in this season. Some things that have helped us through some of the most exhausting and beautiful times in our lives. Self-care is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your babies postpartum. Sometimes it can mean little snippets throughout your day, and other times it can mean scheduling some very specific time just for yourself to feel rejuvenated and alive again!

1. Ask for help! Don’t feel the need or burden to do it all alone. Ask for help from family, your partner, friends, or anyone you know that would be willing! Ask a friend to start a meal train for you when you are first postpartum. Ask your mom to come wash the dishes and change the bedsheets while you nurse or lay down with baby! Ask your partner to pick up some of the slack around the house while you are first healing and enjoying those newborn snuggles. People want to help but oftentimes don’t know what to do or when it’s a good time. So ask!

2. Take baths. This would include making time for sitz baths when you are first postpartum. This assists in healing as well as a moment for you to relax.  And continue to make time to soak and relax throughout the postpartum months. Sometimes all you need after a long day is to soak your worries away. Have your partner watch the baby or sink into a bubble bath after the kids are in bed. Works wonders we promise!

3. Exercise. Exercise we all know, has been proven to balance cortisol levels, hormones, lift the spirits, and improve overall health! When you are first postpartum be sure to limit this to light walking or postpartum workouts, unless approved by your doctor! But once you are approved to get moving, get that exercise in each day mama, even if it’s nothing intense. We promise it will help you feel more yourself!

4. Invest in some good nursing bras! As well as comfy, attractive clothing that’s easy to nurse in. One thing that was huge for both of us in our nursing journeys, has been making sure we invest in well fitting, attractive nursing bras that give us a boost and make us feel good! Good bras that aren’t a hassle to pull down or unclip every time you need to nurse is huge. Who wants to fuss with difficult clothing and bras when you’re trying to make life easier for yourself! It’s important to have comfortable bras as well, as this can cut down on issues with clogged ducts if your bra is too tight or ill-fitting. Checkout tenderseasons.com for some options that fit well and make you feel beautiful! We truly believe in the importance of putting on clothing that is comfortable, but that makes you feel good about yourself. Especially in the months following having a baby when you don’t feel as confident in your own skin!

5. Be sure to get some naps in! Nighttime won’t be the same for a while, being up with your new babe and making sure they are nourished will be your first priority. As a mom, sleep definitely takes a back burner. Try to take naps with the baby when you can, or enlist help so that you can lay down and sleep when able. Sleep and rest will be one of the most important things when you first bring that sweet baby home!

6. Put on some makeup! As moms this can be the last thing on our to-do list. But sometimes, the simple act of putting ourselves together with a nice outfit and a bit of makeup can be the key to feeling more alive and confident that day!

7. Get outside!! We can’t emphasize this one enough. Being outside and in nature can be so healing for the soul. Take a walk. Sit in the sunshine. Watch the kiddos play while you nurse the baby under an umbrella in the fresh air. Whatever it is, make the effort to walk out the door and take some deep breaths, trust us! 

8. Affirmations. Make it a point each day to speak life and kind words to yourself. Maybe even in front of a mirror so you can practice showing yourself love. Write them down on sticky notes to put on the mirror or where you sit and nurse throughout the day. Gentle little reminders of how incredible you are, and encouragement to give yourself grace and love during this season.

We know postpartum is the hardest, most beautiful time. You are strong and amazing. Remember to give yourself grace in this season, and be sure to put in the effort and time for self-care. We’re rooting for you, Mama!

Blessings,

Tender Seasons