When we become mothers, our whole world changes. We have to take care of a little human, or multiple little humans, on very little sleep, while trying to heal from the physical trauma of childbirth or a c-section, and while seen our body completely different. Often new mothers experience postpartum depression, due to all the changes, hormonal imbalances and fatigue.
There are things that we can do to help us feel better, and avoid falling into postpartum depression, specially at this very special time in our life, when we should be getting to know and bounding with our new baby.
A few tips to avoid postpartum depression are:
- Start your day with gratitud. Being grateful britghen your day immediately. That is why I like to start my day by writing three things I am grateful for. As mothers we don’t have much time, but when the baby goes down for a nap, I take my note pad and get writing.
- Make a to do list. I find this very helpful to tackle things I have to or want to do that day or in the next few days. If I don’t write it down it might slip my mind. And looking at the list and seeing that you have gotten some things done feels great.
- Go for a walk. Taking some sun. Getting some physical activity, and breathing some fresh air can change your mood and perspective.
- Have some alone time. Go for a coffee or do something you like at least once a week. This is so underestimated and so necessary for us as moms.
- Try to get good rest. I know it is hard to sleep well while having small kids, but we have to try. Go to bed earlier, take a nap when baby is napping. Try to prioritize rest.
- Good nutrition. Eat a healthy, balanced diet (for the most part). I’m not telling you not to eat anything you like, but we need to prioritize protein intake, fruits and veggies, and avoid ultra processed foods, when possible. This will help you feel better physically and mentally, and along with taking walks or working out, it’s gonna make you feel like a million bucks.
- Keep taking your prenatal or postnatal, along with DHA and magnesium supplements. This is important to support your body and balance your hormones during this time, specially if you are breastfeeding.
- Work out or work on hobbies or passion projects. I know it is hard to make time for anything as moms, but working on yourself makes you feel like you have a purpose and a life, besides been a mother.