Baby & You

Now what was once a bump in your tummy is a breathing, crying, eating bundle of, you may wonder if your life will ever be the same. Believe it or not, your life will slowly fall back into place, but be different than before, and in a great new way! Here are some tips to getting back in the swing of things:

• Schedule time for yourself. Arrange for a babysitter and go to lunch with friends. Go get a manicure or a haircut. Relax!
• Start a daily routine. You might hate schedules, but a plan will help you feel like you accomplished something that day, even if it is just doing a load of laundry or taking a shower. If you keep it up, eventually you will be able to squeeze in a workout, go to the grocery store and write thank you notes all in one day.
• Take your time getting fit. As soon as labor is over some women want to get right to the gym and pickup where they left off. Let’s be realistic. First, you need to get the approval from your doctor or midwife. Then take it slowly. A great way to start is on the floor of your family room with a 15 minute workout video.
• Another great option is walking around the neighborhood with your new baby. Look for workout programs that integrate your stroller and baby.
• Don’t isolate yourself. Life is so much easier if you can find women who are experiencing the same things you are. Join a moms’ group, play group, or sign up for a gym or music class. Another option, local bookstores, a number of them offer free story hours once a week. At this age it isn’t so much for your child, but for you. You will learn some songs to sing, meet other moms and learn that everyone is struggling just as much as you are.
• Don’t forget about dad. Baby will easily consume your life, don’t forget to ask your partner about work or things that are important in his life. Plan date nights and don’t spend all your time talking about the baby.
• A new baby can be overwhelming for the whole family. The last thing on your mind is cooking for yourself or eating a healthy diet. However, this is the time you really need to eat right. Whether you’re breastfeeding and need the extra calories, fighting sleep deprivation or are starting to think about losing the “baby weight” - a healthy diet can really help with your energy level and overall outlook.