Keep hearing about the importance of self-care but not sure how to find the time in your 24/7 new parent schedule? Unfortunately, this is all too common among parents who put their family’s health and well-being above their own. But does this make you a better parent? It may not necessarily be the case... 😢 Although none of us might have been on a plane recently, we’re all familiar with the safety instructions to 'Apply your own oxygen mask before you help others'. In a nutshell, to look after your little one, you need to look after yourself. 💕 Here are some simple, practical tips for finding precious moments in your “Always-on” parenting schedule:
Ask for, and importantly accept help when offered. Whether it be babysitting, or a casserole or groceries dropped on your doorstep, you should never feel guilty about asking or accepting help when offered. People want to help! Be strong and say, “Yes please!” 👋
Make helping easy - be ready with a list! Keep a list of practical things you need, or would love help with that you can share with these helpful people. Keep it on the fridge, or somewhere central so that you, or your partner, can add to it and share with others as needed. Everyone wins!
Make sure you eat. 🍞 You need to eat well to stay healthy, keep up your energy, and look after your wellbeing, particularly when breastfeeding. If you feel too tired to shop or cook, try stocking-up on healthy packaged foods via an online shop, or have a nutritious meal delivered once or twice a week. Dried and fresh fruit, cereal and yogurt are also good choices. Taking a daily multivitamin can be a good idea, too.
Take a deep breath or three. Even when you only have 5 minutes, deep breathing can make you feel calm, clear your thoughts and restore much needed energy. The more oxygen that is in the blood, the better your body functions. It also improves stamina. Check out our “Calm breathing techniques” in Self Care and Stress tips. Have 5 minutes? Why not try our new mindful meditation? 😌 (Learn more below in our weekly feature highlight!)
Self-care looks different to everyone. Keep it simple and find activities that nurture your physical, emotional, and mental health, and make you feel connected. 😊