Self-Care for new parents: Advice from Doulas of Oregon
Becoming a new parent is a beautiful and life-altering experience, but it can also be incredibly demanding and exhausting. It’s easy for parents to neglect their own well-being in those first few weeks (heck, even months!) after a baby’s arrival. That's where self-care comes in—a crucial aspect of parenthood that often gets overlooked. Today, sharing the practicalities of self-care during postpartum!
Prioritize Rest: Sleep deprivation is par for the course in early parenthood, but finding moments to rest and recharge is essential for your physical and mental health. As postpartum doulas, we recommend taking turns with your partner to nap when the baby sleeps, accepting offers of help from friends and family, and letting go of non-essential tasks to focus on self-care.
Nourish Your Body: Fueling your body with nutritious foods is key to maintaining your energy levels and overall well-being as a new parent. Prepare easy-to-eat, nutrient-dense meals and snacks in advance, stay hydrated, and don't forget to indulge in occasional treats to boost your mood. If you’re not a whiz in the kitchen, consider getting nutritious postpartum meals delivered to your door. A favorite of ours is Mama Meals. Get $20 off your first order of $200 with the code NATLBABYCO20
Establish Boundaries: As a new parent, it's natural to feel overwhelmed by the demands of caring for a newborn. Setting boundaries and learning to say no to unnecessary commitments can help you conserve your energy and prioritize your own needs.
Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out for support when you need it. While friends and family can offer invaluable assistance, enlisting the help of a postpartum doula can provide specialized support tailored to your needs. Whether you need help with breastfeeding, newborn care, or emotional support, a doula can be a trusted source of guidance and help in your 4th trimester.
Make Time for Self-Care: Even in the chaos of caring for a newborn, carve out moments for self-care rituals that nourish your body and soul. Whether it's taking a relaxing herbal bath, practicing mindfulness meditation, or indulging in a favorite hobby, prioritizing self-care can help you feel more grounded and resilient to stress.
Be Kind to Yourself: Lastly, remember to be gentle with yourself as you navigate the ups and downs of being a new parent. It's okay to make mistakes, to feel overwhelmed, and to ask for help. Give yourself permission to embrace imperfection and celebrate the small victories along the way.
Self-care isn't selfish—it's a vital component of maintaining your well-being as a new parent. By prioritizing rest, nourishing your body, establishing boundaries, seeking support, making time for self-care rituals, and practicing self-compassion, you can cultivate resilience and thrive in your role as a parent. Remember, you deserve care and kindness, too. If you're in Oregon and looking for specialized support, don't hesitate to reach out to us—we’re here to help!
