“Why did I walk in here?” This is a common question I hear from new mothers entering the postpartum phase, often referred to as mommy boot camp. These moms are navigating through a haze of sleep deprivation and hormonal shifts. They struggle to find time for basic tasks like taking a shower and often feel overwhelmed by the pressures of breastfeeding—whether it’s too little or too much milk—and the judgment surrounding formula feeding. Many find themselves grappling with body image issues, feeling frustrated with their post-baby bodies.
Juggling personal health while learning to care for a newborn can feel insurmountable. It’s not surprising that some new moms may face challenges like eating disorders or depression during this time. My primary focus when supporting new mothers is to emphasize the importance of not abandoning self-care while caring for their little ones. This doesn’t mean you’ll suddenly wake up full of energy and joy at dawn with your baby in tow. It means incorporating yourself into your daily routine, even if it’s in a limited capacity.
Self-care can manifest in various ways, depending on the individual and the day. Think of it as involving two core components: an actionable step and a tone of fierce compassion towards oneself.
For instance, just the other day, after dropping my child off at school, I visited a coffee shop for a work meeting and some writing time (which I consider essential self-care). However, when I reached for my laptop, I realized I had left it at home. I also couldn’t find my journal. Instantly, a voice in my head celebrated, “Yay! No writing today!” Another voice quickly intervened, reminding me of my commitment to self-care.
That voice, which I often use to motivate clients during their own postpartum journeys or recovery, urged me on: “Nope. You’re not giving up on yourself, even if it’s tempting to take the easy route and just focus on others. You’re going to write, so let’s see what you have in that bag.”
After rummaging through my belongings, I stumbled upon a couple of sheets: a coloring page and a blue paper adorned with star cutouts from my child. I also found a pink pen. At that moment, I channeled my inner Tim Gunn from Project Runway, thinking, “Make it work.”
And you know what? I produced something worthwhile! It wasn’t perfect, but it was enough given the circumstances. Remember, whether you’re a new mom, navigating recovery, or feeling like giving up on self-care, it’s crucial to simply show up and do your best.
Maintain that connection with yourself, moms. Be your own fierce protector, just like you are for your child. And if you’re struggling with perfectionism, remember to lower your expectations. As I’ve learned, it’s better to underpromise and overdeliver.
For more insights on home insemination, check out our other blog post here. If you’re looking for authoritative information on how to navigate the world of artificial insemination, Make A Mom is an excellent resource. For those interested in pregnancy and fertility, I highly recommend the Cleveland Clinic’s podcast as a valuable resource.
In summary, prioritize self-care amidst the challenges of motherhood. It’s essential to nurture yourself while nurturing your child, and remember that showing up, even in small ways, is what truly matters.