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Trying to stay healthy as a new mom is tough.
After our son was born, I think I held him so much that I forgot I had arms.
Eating, drinking, and taking care of myself were second in my mind to holding and taking care of our boy.
I was lucky enough to both have a wonderful husband to take care of me while I recovered, and not get post-partum depression.
But it was still rough adjusting to life as a new mom.
Trust me when I say, taking care of yourself will help you to enjoy your time spent with your baby SO much more.
Here are some things I wish I had known about life after having a baby, and some tips I have learned along the way.
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Take your vitamins
Prenatal or Postnatal Vitamins
Don’t stop taking your prenatal’s after the baby is born, especially if you breastfeed.
Those extra vitamins are essential to you and your baby’s health.
Make sure to get a good one that includes DHA and Omega-3 vitamins to support a healthy brain for both mom and baby.
Electrolytes
This is something I don’t really think I would have tried if I had not gotten preeclampsia after giving birth.
I had the need to keep my blood pressure down, but electrolytes do so much more than just that.
Drinking electrolytes every day can keep you hydrated better than only drinking water can.
Try to have one glass of water with electrolyte powder everyday for best results.
Related Content: How to fix your blood pressure naturally, after preeclampsia.
Drink enough water
Your body needs to be hydrated.
And if you are breastfeeding, you definitely need to be drinking a good amount of water.
Symptoms of dehydration can include headaches, dizziness, lack of energy and moodiness, none of which help you to function as a person, or a mom.
Staying on top of your game will help you take care of yourself, and your family.
Get a good water bottle
For me, having a water bottle, or something with a straw really help me to drink water after giving birth.
Try getting a large water bottle and keeping track of how many times per day you fill it up.
Have someone watch the baby while you:
Work out
You have been cooped up for too long.
Depending on if you had a hospital birth, home birth, or any complications, you may have been on that tush for a while now.
And don’t get me wrong, you NEEDED and DESERVED that down time.
But it’s time to reward yourself with a good yoga session, a run, or maybe just a stroll around the neighborhood.
Getting a decent amount of exercise in after you’ve been cleared by your doctor or midwife is necessary, and so good for you.
Take some time to work out! And trust me, you will be glad you did.
Eat a meal
Eating is important for you, as well as baby.
You can’t take care of anyone else if you are fading away from hunger.
Have a friend, your spouse, or one of your parents hold your precious little one, and enjoy some peace and quiet, and some good food.
Don’t forget to take care of YOU too, mama.
Take a bath
This is one of the most rewarding, relaxing things to do after baby is born.
My advice, nurse your baby to sleep, and let someone watch them while you hop in the tub.
That way baby is calm and relaxed, and you can take a moment for yourself.
Mommy on Purpose has a great post about post-partum sitz baths, and how to take one during your recovery phase.
After your 6 weeks post-partum, you should be able to enjoy longer, most restful baths though too.
Stay Calm
Being a new parent is stressful, as well as beautiful.
It’s hard on your body and your mind, so don’t forget to TAKE CARE OF THEM.
This will help everyone involved in raising your little one. If you have a partner, make sure to give them these tips too, so they can be at their best as well.
Lavender oil
Lavender essential oil is a wonderful way to calm your senses, and relax your mind.
You can use it topically with or without a carrier, use it for aromatherapy in a diffuser or incense, or put a few drops in the bath to help you relax even more.
Epsom Salt Bath
If you are a parent, I can almost guarantee you have sore muscles.
Taking Epsom salt baths both relax tired, sore muscles, and help lower blood pressure.
Taking an Epsom salt bath a few time a week can work wonders for your tired mind and body.
Related Content: 5 Easy Self Care ideas for new mama’s