Guest Article By Leslie Campos with https://wellparents.com/.
As a new mom, breastfeeding is a wonderful way to bond with your baby. That said, if you find breastfeeding exhausting, you aren't alone. The early weeks of nursing your newborn are especially taxing. You burn more calories when breastfeeding and have to devote seemingly constant time and energy to keeping your little one satiated.The activity becomes even more strenuous if your child is having trouble nursing.
Taking care of yourself mentally and physically will make breastfeeding easier and alleviate the stress surrounding the situation. These self-care tips for breastfeeding moms can help.
Need some extra support as you strive for a more positive birthing experience? Certified birth doula Kaelie Harris can support and guide you through the process! 256.694.1248 or breathelovebirth@gmail.com
Dress for comfort while maintaining your style.
You want to be at ease when breastfeeding. Opt for soft and comfortable clothes that still allow you to retain your personal sense of style. Stylish nursing gowns can let you look and feel great while making it easy to quickly feed your little one when they're hungry. The clip-down cups are fantastic for late-night feeding, while the racerback bodice ensuresstraps stay securely in place. Invest in more than one piece since breastfeeding can get messy and you'll likely need to change more frequently than usual.
Nurture yourself with nutritious meals.
A healthy diet keeps both you and your baby healthy. The American Pregnancy Association recommends eating a well-balanced diet rich in fiber, carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
That said, you won't have much time for cooking when breastfeeding. A sandwich press is a great solution. You can quickly and easily upgrade a boring cold sandwich into a warm, crispy dish. When buying a press, look for one that is versatile, easy to store, and fast to clean.
Set aside time for exercise.
Exercise is a great way to let off steam and alleviate some of the anxiety and stress that naturally comes with motherhood. Physical activity produces feel-good endorphins in the brain, boosts your mood, and helps you regain muscle tone and flexibility that may have diminished during pregnancy. Opt for low-impact exercises to start, because your ligaments will still be looser than usual after pregnancy. Yoga, spinning, and swimming are all excellent options.
Take 15 minutes of "me" time.
Stepping away from your baby for even a minute can be tough when you're a new mom. However, it's critical that you seize this "me" time. Use it to unwind. Meditating is one great way to destress. Research shows that it only takes 15 minutes of meditation per day to improve wellbeing. If you've never tried it, look to apps for guidance. She Knows provides a list of suitable apps for new mothers, including affordable apps like Ten Percent Happier, Meditation Studio, and Calm.
Don't be shy about asking for help.
You have a support network. Tap into it! If your partner or parent offers to take your baby for a bit, let them. You can also seek professional support. If you're dealing with postpartum anxiety, for example, talk to your doctor. If you're struggling with breastfeeding and the responsibilities that come with being a parent, Breathe.Love.Birth. Doula Services offers postpartum doula services.
As a new mom, your focus is on your baby. Don't forget to take the time to focus on yourself as well. These tips should provide some inspiration. By keeping yourself healthy mentally and physically, you are ensuring you can give your child the best care possible.
Photo Credit: Pexels.com