Being a mother is a tough job, and it’s easy to forget about taking care of yourself when you’re so focused on taking care of your children.
However, self-care is crucial for mums at every stage of motherhood. This goes for mums with kids, pregnant mums, mums who have recently given birth or a mums who are currently trying for a baby.
Each stage of motherhood requires a different approach and purpose to self-care. Whether that’s to heal, unwind, strengthen or rejuvenate, self-care goes beyond how you pamper and spoil your body.
They help you function at your best, and actually enjoy the phase you’re in. Here are some self-care advice for every motherhood stage of life.
For Pregnant Mums
Pregnancy can be an exciting but stressful time. As a pregnant mum, it’s important to take care of yourself and your growing baby.
Self-care during pregnancy can includes plenty of pampering.
This includes indulging in comfort food every once in a while, getting regular massages (specially to induce lactation), and having lots of fun in the bedroom.
Sex can be a great stress reliever and it also strengthens the pelvic floor.
Having regular intercourse close to your due date has been shown to reduce stress, alleviate pregnancy discomforts, improve sleep and even facilitate labour. Ensuring a smooth childbirth.
Pregnancy exercise is also important to strengthen your body when the time comes to push out a baby.
For Mums with Kids
Once your baby arrives, it’s easy to get caught up in the demands of motherhood.
However, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your children.
Self-care for mums with kids involves lots of personal time and rekindling the domestic bliss.
This includes taking lots of breaks for yourself, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.
But a weekend getaway with your girlfriends or romantic date night a couple times a month can be just the remedy to recharge your zest for life.
Being a mum is great but sometimes you may want to reconnect with other parts of your identity including being a wife, a friend, a sibling and a daughter.
For Postpartum Mums
The postpartum period can be a challenging time for mums.
Your body has just gone through a significant change, and you’re adjusting to life with a new baby.
Self-care during the postpartum period involves healing the body and the mind. If you already bought a confinement package then that’s the battle half won.
Just sit back, relax and enjoy the royal treatment. But if you’re not then always get help, whether that’s your spouse, your family members or a live-in confinement lady.
This way someone will always be there to take care of your baby when you need a break from mummy duties to just rest or sleep.
Sometimes the best self-care for a postpartum mum is getting enough shut-eye.
For Mums Trying to Conceive
Trying to conceive can be a stressful and emotional time for mums. Self-care during this period can help to alleviate stress and improve your overall wellbeing.
Self-care for prospective mums then involves managing stress levels.
It’s important to keep your stress levels low so that your body can actually funnel its energies to preparing your body for a baby instead of being in constant flight or fight mode.
So do things that bring you pleasure and joy.
Get plenty of sun, meditate or do yoga, make time for hobbies, engage in some fun exercise (that you actually enjoy), and get lots of cuddles with Mr. Husband.
You can also spoil yourself with some good food and good supplements to boost your fertility.
Self-Care at Every Stage of Motherhood
Self-care is crucial for mums at every stage of motherhood.
By taking the time to care for yourself, you’ll not only improve your own wellbeing but also become a better parent.
Try out these homemade masks to keep your skin blemish free and glowing.
We have even more face mask recipes here!
Whether you’re pregnant, have kids, or are trying to conceive, there are plenty of ways to practice self-care.
By making self-care a priority, you’ll be able to handle the demands of motherhood with more ease and grace. And it all starts with feeling good, both outside and in.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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