Having a baby is a monumental life event. No matter whether you had a vaginal birth, cesarean, or welcomed your baby via surrogate or adoption, things change. You become responsible for the care and well-being of a tiny human who is helpless and solely dependent on you.
Long days and sleepless nights become the norm and the adjustment period can quickly take a toll physically and emotionally. That wonderful new baby smell, those cute little grunts and sleepy smiles many not be enough to sustain the initial, oxytocin-powered, love-at-first-sight feelings that enveloped you the first time you laid eyes on your bouncing bundle of joy.
So, what can you do when you’ve lost track of what day of the week it is, how long you’ve been wearing that shirt, and who in the world is that staring back at you in the mirror?
This may seem difficult and you may even think it is down-right impossible. It’s a piece of advice I wish someone had told me when I had my children.
Are you ready? Here it is.
DO JUST ONE THING
THAT MAKES YOU FEEL NORMAL
EVERYDAY.
Yep. That’s it. Just one thing.
Go through your pre-baby routine in your head. Choose one thing that you can do EVERY DAY that makes you feel normal; something that makes you feel like you.
Is it doing your makeup?
Is it 20 minutes of yoga and meditation?
Is it that refreshing shower you cherish first thing in the morning?
Work out a schedule with your partner, hire a mother’s helper, or postpartum support to make sure you get it done within the first few hours of your day.
When life gets turned upside down, even for something good, it’s always a pick-me-up to make time for yourself. Although having a baby changes everything, you get to define your normal. Remember, self-care is the best care!
What’s your one thing?
North Atlanta Concierge Doula Services can assist you with making a postpartum plan or securing postpartum doula services to aid in your transition to parenthood. Please feel free to contact us for a consultation or list of resources to help you prepare for your journey ahead.