Pregnancy and giving birth are life-changing experiences. But what about the postpartum period? The journey after giving birth is often filled with self-doubt, mood changes, tiredness, and confusion, which is why it’s important to plan it in a way that will contribute to your and the baby’s wellbeing. If you’ve recently given birth, or you’re about to welcome your little bundle of joy, then here are some helpful tips that will help you have a mindful and positive postpartum experience.

You’re not in a rush

We live in a culture that shames women for gaining weight, even after they birth an actual human. This is why many new mothers tend to feel in a rush to go back to their previous baby body, regardless of their medical conditions or mental state. So, it’s crucial to point out that you’re not in a rush: your sole focus should be your baby’s wellbeing and your own mental health journey. Everything else, from selfies to cute baby pictures can wait. This is why your postpartum journey should be about you, and the expectations that family, society, and social media have of you.

Invest in your mental health

Postpartum depression is a real thing that tends to fly under the radar in many cultures. There’s this belief that a mother should feel happy and elated simply for giving birth alone, which is why many women happen to ignore telltale symptoms of postpartum depression. Even if you’re mentally balanced, it’s important to invest in your mental health. If you have a trusted therapist, feel free to talk to them, especially if you’ve been feeling unmotivated or sad. Inability to connect with the baby after a certain period is also an obvious sign that something isn’t right. Your mental health, therefore, is crucial, because, in order to show up for your baby, you’ll also need to show up for yourself.

Talk to other moms

Postpartum loneliness can increase the negative feelings, simply due to feeling isolated. This is also a reality for many new mothers: their spouses are working, and families are far away, which leaves them alone with a baby. If that’s the case with you, then it’s advisable to find like-minded people to help you feel less lonely. There’s a popular Mumli app for moms that is a great way to meet other new mothers, swap tips, and possibly even organize playdates in the future. Having friends and nurturing social contacts is a crucial part of the postpartum journey, as it helps you relate to similar experiences, and get some help if you need it.

Make time for your partner

Your partner deserves to be a part of your journey. Many new moms happen to neglect their partners due to all the challenges that come with caring for a newborn. But, if you make time for your partner by including them in activities, or just talking to them, you will strengthen your connection, and therefore, feel more assured in your new role. Your partner is a new parent too, and the easiest way to make things work is to remain close and do it together.

Embrace mindfulness when things get a little tough

If there’s one thing that can help you feel better, then it’s mindfulness. Learning how to be in the present moment is a great way to appreciate everything more. Plus, mindfulness, especially meditation, is a great tool that can help you with a lot of negative emotions, mainly anxiety and despair. Opting for a guided meditation practice with positive affirmations specifically pertaining to motherhood will help you feel more empowered, positive, and secure in your journey.

Find time for yourself

The first weeks after giving birth are often marked by a lack of sleep and exhaustion. This makes sense, as your focus is your baby and their needs. But, as things slowly progress, it’s important to find time for yourself. Whether it’s a skincare routine, a trip to a coffee shop, or browsing your favorite online store, it’s simply necessary to have some time for your own needs and interests. Also, if the weather permits, feel free to take your baby for a short walk every day. Being exposed to sunlight and fresh air can do wonders both for your mental and physical health.

Conclusion

Planning a positive, mindful and healthy postpartum journey might be challenging, but with a bit of effort, and some help, it’s possible to feel motivated, energized, and comfortable in your own skin, while taking care of your newborn. Keep in mind that motherhood is a unique experience, which is why you should focus on your wellbeing, while also making sure that your baby is healthy and happy at every stage of development.

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