1) Prioritize self care. Cited almost everywhere, but I feel that this tip has been instrumental in helping me feel balanced as a new mom. I always found the greatest forms of self care in yoga and meditation. Self care looks different for everyone, and it is possible that it’s very different from your prior form of self care as the body (and the mind) are so very different from pre-baby. So, try out new things, and see what feels
good for you. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter what you do, but how you do it, or in yoga- speak, the intention behind it, which is to prioritize this time for yourself. When you prioritize self care, you are able to move through your day with greater ease, patience and acceptance.
2) Get out of the house. The effects of getting out of the house are not only beneficial on your mental wellbeing, but they are instrumental in teaching your baby about new people, places and things. Trips to the grocery store and the library are both a 'go-to' for my son and I when the weather is not in our favor. Adventures to the park, the ocean, the playground and walking trails are some of our favorite places to go when the weather is nice. Not only do these adventures offer an expanded sense of space, they often require some movement, so a double-win because you’re getting out and getting exercise!
Which leads me to my fourth tip…
3) Exercise! Whether this is your form of self-care, or in addition to it, exercise is instrumental in helping you feel balanced. For my son and I, this is most often achieved with daily walks around the neighborhood. I have found this to be the easiest way to make sure we’re getting our daily dose of movement (and fresh air) regardless of the weather. Keep an open mind and know that you can prepare for just about any inclement weather with the proper stroller, footwear and skin protection.
4) Nurture your relationships. It’s true what they say, raising a child takes a village. Make time to nurture your relationships with your partner, your friends, and your family. If you’re far from home, as is our case, conversations by FaceTime are a great way to stay in touch and help your little one meet the important people in your life.
5) Finally, and perhaps most importantly, be kind to yourself. One of my greatest weaknesses is self-criticism, and let me tell you, my internal chatter can be a real bully sometimes. A lot of this comes from setting unrealistic expectations of myself and then beating myself up when I do not achieve them. More recently, my self-criticism has been related to mom-guilt. But I have consciously made the decision to be kinder to myself because what better example to set for my son than to show him how to love himself
and then carry that love forth to others?

Be mindful of your inner dialogue and when you catch yourself amidst self-critical mind chatter, gently remind yourself that you are an awesome mom and that you are doing more than enough.

KD