Being a mother is a wonderful experience, but that doesn’t mean it can’t also be incredibly stressful at times. As moms, we often prioritize our little ones’ needs over our own, which can lead to exhaustion and burnout. It’s not easy but this is why self-care is so crucial during pregnancy and the postpartum period. We can’t give our best to our children if we’re not focusing on taking care of ourselves as well.
During my own pregnancy, I struggled with stress and anxiety, but I discovered that incorporating self-care practices into my daily routine helped me feel more centered and grounded. Here are some tips that I hope will help other moms out there who may be feeling the same way. They’re truly so easy to fit into even the busiest days and really don’t require a ton of time dedication.
1. Meditation: Meditation is a powerful tool for reducing stress and anxiety. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Even just a few minutes of meditation each day can make a big difference.
When it comes to meditation, I’ve tried a lot of different apps over the years, but the two that have really always been my go to favorites are the Calm app and the Expectful app.
The Calm app is a fantastic tool for anyone looking to reduce stress and anxiety, improve their sleep, or simply find more peace in their daily life. It offers a wide range of guided meditations, sleep stories, and mindfulness exercises, all designed to help you feel more relaxed and centered. The sleep stories are my favorite!
The Expectful app is specifically designed for new and expecting mothers, which is why it quickly became one of my favorites during my pregnancy and early postpartum journey. I still use it from time to time. Its guided meditations are tailored to support the unique emotional and physical needs of pregnancy and early motherhood, making it a wonderful tool for anyone navigating this transformative time.
Both the Calm and Expectful apps are user-friendly and offer a wide range of guided meditations and mindfulness exercises that can be accessed anytime, anywhere. I still use them to this day and highly recommend them to anyone looking to incorporate meditation into their self-care routine.
2. Movement: Staying active during pregnancy can help reduce stress, boost your mood, and improve your overall health. Whether it’s prenatal yoga, walking, or swimming, find a form of movement that feels good for you and your body.
Staying active during pregnancy was important to me, both for my physical health and my mental wellbeing. One of my favorite ways to stay active was through Peloton workouts. I found that their prenatal on-demand workouts were a great way to get a safe and effective workout in, without putting too much strain on my body. These workouts were designed specifically for pregnant women, with modifications for each trimester, making them a great option for any mom-to-be.
In addition to my Peloton workouts, I made it a priority to walk almost every day. Walking is a low-impact exercise that’s easy on the joints, making it a great choice for pregnancy. Not only did it help me stay active, but it also gave me some much-needed fresh air and time to clear my head. Overall, staying active during pregnancy helped me feel more energized and empowered, and I’m grateful for the support of tools like the Peloton app and my trusty walking shoes.
3. Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be incredibly therapeutic during pregnancy and postpartum. It’s a great way to process your emotions and document your journey as a new mom.
Journaling can be a powerful tool for processing emotions, gaining clarity, and documenting your journey. But sometimes, the thought of sitting down and writing a lengthy entry in a journal can be daunting. The good news is, journaling doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. In fact, it can be as simple as jotting down a thought on a post-it note, writing notes on your phone, or buying a pretty journal to keep on your nightstand. The key is to find a method that works for you and fits easily into your daily routine. Whether it’s a few minutes in the morning, before bed, or during your lunch break, taking the time to check in with yourself and write down your thoughts and feelings can be incredibly therapeutic. So don’t overthink it – just grab a pen and paper (or your phone) and start writing!
4. Support system: Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek support from loved ones or a professional. It’s important to have people in your corner who can offer emotional support and practical help when you need it.
Pregnancy and postpartum can be challenging times, and having a support system in place can make all the difference. There are many ways to access support, including reaching out to friends or family members who have gone through pregnancy themselves and are positive influences in your life. They can offer advice, share their own experiences, and provide emotional support when you need it most. Additionally, your midwife, OBGYN, health coach, nutrition consultant or doula can be valuable resources for finding support in your community, whether it’s through local support groups, parenting classes, or therapy services.
If you’re looking for more personalized support, there are also many online resources available, including therapy apps like BetterHelp. These apps offer confidential counseling services with licensed therapists, from the comfort of your own home. Whether you need help processing difficult emotions, managing stress, or simply need someone to talk to, there are resources available to support you through every step of your pregnancy and postpartum journey. As a busy mom, virtual therapy is much easier to squeeze into an already busy schedule. You can schedule a quick session or send a text while your little one nap or are playing in the room with you!
Remember, self-care isn’t selfish – it’s necessary for your own wellbeing and for being the best mom you can be for your little ones. Prioritizing self-care during pregnancy and postpartum can help you feel more centered, grounded, and at peace during this special time.
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