Tips For New Moms While Taking Care of Yourself

Tips for New Moms: Taking Care of Yourself While Breastfeeding

Becoming a new mother is a life-changing experience that comes with a lot of joy, love, and responsibility. As you navigate the challenges of motherhood and learn how to care for your newborn, remember to take care of yourself, too! A big part of that depends on streamlining your environment for positivity as much as possible.

In fact, practicing self-care is one of the most valuable things you can do for your baby when you’re breastfeeding. Not only will proper self-care help you produce enough healthy breast milk for your baby, but will also help you feel more comfortable and confident in your new role as a mom. Here are some tips from Timber N Twine Photography to help you get started on the right path.

Acquire Essential Self-Care Supplies

The right supplies can make all the difference in your breastfeeding experience. Invest in some self-care items that will keep you comfortable during this challenging period. For example, a comfortable nursing bra can make a big difference; you can try this page to see what’s out there. Some other self-care supplies to add to your cart include nursing cream, a nursing pillow, and special tanks that provide extra support and easy access for breastfeeding.

Carve Out Time for the Rest of Your Family

When you have a new baby, it can be difficult to make time for your other children. But it’s important to ensure the rest of your family gets some quality time as well. A schedule and routine will help you split your time evenly. For example, you could schedule time in the evening to spend with your other children or get them to help with simple chores. Be sure to sit down with your kids and plan some new experiences that you can all look forward to enjoying together in the future!

Get Moving

While it’s important to give your body time to rest and heal after giving birth, movement can boost your energy levels, enhance your mood, and aid in postpartum recovery by strengthening the muscles that may have become weakened during pregnancy. Start with gentle postpartum exercises like pelvic tilts, hip rolls, and squats. Sweaty as a Mother suggests including stretching in your movement routine to combat the strain on your back, neck, and shoulders from breastfeeding.

Don’t Forget to Eat

A healthy diet will supply your body with the energy and nutrients it needs to produce breast milk without depleting your own nutrient stores. Did you know that breastfeeding increases your caloric needs by about 500 calories per day? Feed yourself well! Focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods like fish, meat, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, healthy fats, and fiber-rich starches.

You can find plenty of healthy postpartum recipes online! Look for recipes that are easy to whip up quickly. You can even prep your meals in advance, so they’re ready to pop in the oven at dinner. This is especially useful if you have other hungry mouths to feed.

Keep Yourself Hydrated

Be prepared to feel thirsty more often once you begin breastfeeding. While you don’t need to drink excess water when breastfeeding, you do need to keep yourself hydrated. This will ensure your brain and body can operate optimally. Dehydration can lead to moodiness, headaches, fatigue, and brain fog. Verywell Family recommends drinking as much water as you need to quench your thirst! Keep a water bottle on hand at all times so you can sip throughout the day and avoid dehydration.

Self-care is essential during breastfeeding and postpartum recovery. As a new mom, it can be tough to take some focus off your baby to care for yourself, but practicing self-care will help you be the best possible caregiver to your child. Invest in supplies that make breastfeeding easier and more comfortable, like nursing pads. Schedule quality time to spend with your other children. And prioritize healthy habits like eating well, exercising, and drinking plenty of water. Most importantly, remember to cherish this time with your new baby!

Timber N Twine Photography is the most highly recommended maternity and newborn photographer in Charleston, WV. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!