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Gwen @ Invisible Moms
Early parenthood is all about taking care of your new child, but it’s important to take time to care for yourself, too. Between feeding, diaper changes, and getting your baby to sleep, it can feel like there’s just no time for you. However, these tips from Thifty Mama Life will give you the break you need to focus on self-care during this busy, exciting, sometimes-stressful time.
Take Turns
One of the most important parts of early parenthood is working as a team. Work out a schedule and take turns with as many tasks as you can manage. There may be some tasks, such as breastfeeding, that you can’t really take turns doing. Do your best to take an equal load accounting for those jobs you can’t pass back and forth.
If you’re parenting without a partner, consider asking a close friend or family member to stay with you for a little while. You can focus on the parenting tasks, and your helper can handle various jobs around the house. Single parents have a harder task on their hands, so it’s vital to have someone you trust on your side.
Make the Most of Quiet Moments
Newborn babies need a lot of care and attention, but they also need a lot of sleep. So, whenever possible, take advantage of the moments when your new baby is snoozing. Whether it’s a matter of prepping your next meal or getting some shut-eye yourself, these quiet moments are ideal opportunities to focus on you for a little while.
Consider Baby Wearing
Ring slings, harnesses, and other baby-wearing devices can make a world of difference for a parent with an especially snuggly newborn. Some babies won’t calm down unless they’re being held – this tool allows you to keep your newborn happy while being able to move around and use your arms. Granted, your activities will still be a little limited while babywearing, especially early on — it takes a little bit of time and practice to feel confident with your baby in its carrier. But once you have the hang of babywearing, you’ll cherish the freedom to move around.
Do Five-Minute Chores
Housework is going to fall behind while you’re dealing with a newborn, and that’s okay — you don’t have to be at the top of your game right now. However, five-minute chores are a great way to keep yourself relatively on track and save yourself from a big job later on. The concept is simple: Set a five-minute timer and spend that time getting as much of a chore done as you can. These little bursts of work will make a big difference.
Although it’s okay to be a little bit of a mess during this period, tidying will make a big difference for you. Clean spaces reduce anxiety — an organized, decluttered bedroom, for example, makes for a more soothing and effective sleep environment. The last thing you want while you catch a chance to sleep is to feel worried about the laundry on the floor; five minutes is just enough time to gather clothes up and spare yourself some stress.
Ask for Help
Finally, don’t be afraid to take friends and family members up on their offers for help. People understand that new parents have a lot on their plate, and the ones who love you will champing at the bit to give you a hand. It doesn’t have to be childcare — help with chores, cooking, or errands will be invaluable. Anything that removes lines from your to-do list is a blessing.
The early days with a newborn are hard, but self-care will help. Share the load, take advantage of the time you can, and remember that things will get easier.
Photo Credit: Pexels
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