You are an expecting parent, giving your entire focus, love and devotion to your soon to be newborn which is amazing! But have you been taking care of yourself?
Your body is going through the most natural and incredible experience, however already you are sleep-deprived, putting on your make-up and doing your hair is becoming a 3 hour ordeal and do you remember the last time you could put shoes on without help? This is why it is vital to check in with yourself with a bit of self care.
We understand that the hours in the day are becoming less focused on you and more focused on baby prep so we have come up with 7 more self care tips for mums-to-be to inspire you to take some time for yourselves. If you haven’t already, check out our first article on 7 Self Care Tips For Mums-To-Be.
Connect With Friends and Family
To stop yourself from feeling isolated, it is important to use this time to keep connected with your family and loved ones. This doesn’t have to be a wild night out (because let’s be honest you don’t have the time nor the energy). We have created the perfect mocktail recipe guide for a night in with girls.
Journaling
Journaling is a great way to let off some steam. It is also vitally important that you are checking in with your own emotions from time to time. Journaling has many benefits, including reflection, creativity, and relaxation. It also helps us to freely let out our feelings without the fear of judgement. Journaling can also help with momental stuff, such as kick counts and your baby’s size.
For more journaling tips check out 17 helpful things to plan and track in your pregnancy journal.
Do Something You Are Passionate About
Maybe you’re a passionate painter, maybe you’re handy with a needle and thread, maybe you’re the next Nigella Lawson. Whatever it may be, it is important to keep in touch with the passions that make you, you! Additionally, taking this time is perfect to have an hour or so to yourself.
Talk To Other New Mums
Talk to people who understand. Facebook has thousands of expectant parent groups. Utilise being able to talk to people who are experiencing the same as you are. Mum and baby groups are great once your little bubba is here, however, it’s rare people talk about the support needed throughout your pregnancy.
Say No
Boundaries are important and to protect your well being, it is time to start setting them. If you are really not up for meeting up for a coffee, visiting the in-laws, doing the laundry straight away, remember you can say no! No is one of the most powerful words you can use and it is time to start using it.
Meditate
Alongside gentle exercise, meditation is the perfect way to get your mindset in a positive place. Apps such as headspace and calm can help with this through guided meditation techniques. There are also lots of other options such as classes and YouTube videos.
Time With Partner
Spend quality time with your partner through cooking or movie watching or even just mindlessly scrolling through TikTok. Having those bonding moments are going to be so much more valuable and fewer and far between when your newborn comes along. You are both going through an incredible journey together so make sure you are savouring each moment.
These were just a few prompt ideas but there are many ways that may be personal to you that make you feel good so do what is best for you! Now go away and take some time for yourself. You deserve it.
