Health Tips For New Moms
New moms are some of the most joyful (and exhausted) folks on the planet. Being…
New moms are some of the most joyful (and exhausted) folks on the planet. Being a mom is extremely rewarding, but also requires a hearty energy investment. The need for energy never really goes away, even as children grow older.
Many moms have additional demands on their energy, like jobs, hobbies, and volunteer work. They give so much time and energy to others that they seldom have a chance to take time for themselves.
The non-stop pace of life and family duties leaves some moms feeling drained. Stress, insomnia, and poor nutrition can exacerbate the problem. Here are some helpful tips for moms who need more energy to take care of themselves and others:
First, Take Care of You
As a mom, you have a lot of demands on your time. But you need to take care of yourself to be able to take care of your loved ones. When was the last time you indulged in a massage, pedicure, or therapeutic shopping trip?
Some moms feel guilty for pampering themselves. Don’t! Think of it as an investment in your quality of life – and your sanity. A stressed-out mom is harder to live with than one who regularly takes time for herself.
Delegate tasks to your spouse or an older child who can handle the responsibility. Call on friends or family members for assistance. Schedule a block of time each week that is just for you.
Sleep and Stretch to Recharge Yourself
Stress takes a toll on our minds and bodies. If you stay tense all day and all night, your health will suffer.
Take steps to ensure 8 hours of quality sleep each night. Some people need 9 or 10 hours to feel fully refreshed, but few people – especially moms – get enough sleep.
What’s preventing you from sleeping well? If you have anxiety, talk it out or write it down in a journal. Give yourself permission to worry later, if you really need to.
Noise and light can also keep you restless, so invest in a sleep mask and some comfortable foam ear plugs if needed. Make sure your bedroom is as dark as possible.
Start and end your day with stretches to relieve muscle tension. Do head rolls and shoulder shrugs to loosen up. Flex your spine in and out as far as you can. Give yourself a facial massage to ease the tension in tight jaw muscles.
Do a Diet Makeover
Are you eating enough? Too much? Do you tend to grab junk food as you hurry out the door, and gobble it down during your morning commute? Does stress make you want to eat constantly?
Take a good, hard look at your diet and eating habits. If you do a lot of mindless eating (in front of the television, or while running errands), you might be eating more food than you realize.
Try snacking throughout the day to keep your energy high and your appetite suppressed. A handful of almonds or a cup List Of Dietary Supplements of low-fat yogurt could be all you need to refuel. Eat too much, and you could feel weighed down and lethargic.
Make your meals small but nutritious. Lean proteins, reduced-fat dairy products, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and whole grain products are great energizers. Eat small servings of these foods every 2 – 3 hours.
Got a Baby? Absorptive Medications No Problem!
Small children can make weight loss more challenging. Who has time to work out with a new baby or roaming toddler in the house?
Luckily, you can make your kids a part of your workout. Try finding a local stroller walking club to get fit with the baby in tow. Or take your energetic toddler to the playground and join in the fun!
Rather work out at home? Some kids love to help, so you could give your child a “job”, like counting the reps you do. If you’re more of the gym type, look for one that offers childcare while you exercise.
Moms are special people who deserve special care. So, moms, take these tips to heart and use them to take care of yourself. If you keep yourself in good shape, you will see benefits in all areas of your life.