Searching for some postpartum self-care ideas? This is the post for you!
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Those early weeks and months after having a baby can be a blur of exhaustion and joy. Sleepless nights, physical discomfort, and crazy hormone levels can make you feel like an entirely different person. I know it’s easier said than done, but taking care of yourself during this time can help you show up as a better parent. I promise, it’s not selfish to take 20 minutes out of the day to do something exclusively for you.
If you’re too tired to brainstorm some postpartum self-care ideas, here’s a list for you.
Solo Time Postpartum Self-Care Ideas
When baby is napping or with another caregiver, enjoy some glorious alone time with these ideas:
- Nap – No explanation necessary.
- Take a Bath – Listen to music, light candles, watch Netflix, or just simply sit in silence.
- Read – When’s the last time you read for pleasure? Get comfy on the couch and crack open a book.
- Pamper Yourself – An everything shower, followed by head to toe skincare? You’ll feel like a new woman. Or, head to a spa for an hour or two!
- Journal – It doesn’t need to feel like a 30-minute homework exercise. Take 3 minutes and write down 1 thing at the end of each day that you did well.
- Meditate – Try an app like Calm or Headspace, or find a guided meditation on YouTube.
- Color – Seriously, coloring is so relaxing. Get an adult coloring book and let your mind wander for 10 minutes.
- Go Shopping – No, not for diapers or the household groceries (though you certainly can if that’s enjoyable) but for a few new clothing items that make you feel really good.
- Take a Yoga Class – The breathwork and stretching will feel amazing for your postpartum body. Or try any other workout class you like.
- Get a Massage – Your body will seriously thank you.
- Go on a Lunch Date – Go by yourself and enjoy the solitude, or call up another mom friend.
Ideas With Baby
Sometimes, you don’t have the option for alone time. You can still take care of yourself and charge your battery with your mini sidekick in tow.
- Listen to a favorite audio book or podcast in one ear while rocking or feeding.
- Do a short workout while baby chills in a bouncer or on the play mat.
- Watch your favorite show while baby naps on you.
- Go to the coffee shop drive-through and get yourself a treat if baby falls asleep in the car.
- Push the stroller outside on a nice day while listening to music.
- Go in your backyard or head to the park to sit in nature. Just sit in the sunshine with baby under the cover of the stroller.
- Do a short stretch routine while baby is doing tummy time.
- Make yourself a tasty, hydrating drink (think some citrus water, throw in some electrolytes, coconut water, etc.)
The postpartum days can be completely full, so the key is taking consistent “micro breaks” – build 5 minutes here and there, and your nervous system will thank you! And when you can, block off some bigger chunks by hiring a babysitter or chat with your partner to schedule some time for yourself.
Postpartum self-care might look different to each person, but whatever it is, focus on the little joys and relaxation that it can bring during this season of life.
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