When someone tells a new mum to "make time for self-care", she might laugh, or cry. There is no time. But self-care after a baby is not spa days and long baths. It is tiny moments that remind you that you are still a person, not just a milk bar.
Ten rituals that take five minutes or less
- Drink a full glass of water before you sit down to feed.
- Step outside. Five minutes of sunshine and fresh air can change a whole afternoon.
- Have a hot cuppa while it is actually hot. Hand the baby over, or wait until they nap, and drink it slowly.
- Shower with intention. Even a quick one. Notice the warm water.
- Moisturise your skin afterwards. Two minutes with a body oil you love.
- Text a friend who gets it.
- Put on something that makes you feel like you. Earrings count.
- Stretch your neck and shoulders, which carry so much from feeding and holding.
- Write down one good thing that happened today. Tiny counts.
- Close your eyes and breathe slowly for ten breaths while your baby sleeps on you.
Permission slips
You are allowed to rest instead of tidying. You are allowed to ask for help. You are allowed to want time to yourself. None of these make you love your baby any less.
If it all feels too heavy
If no amount of rest seems to help, or you are feeling low most days, please talk to your GP or call the PANDA Helpline on 1300 726 306.
This article is general information, written by mums for mums. It isn't medical advice. If something doesn't feel right, trust that feeling and talk to your GP, midwife or child health nurse.
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