Breastfeeding is one of the best ways to bond with your baby, and it also comes with some great health benefits as well. However, breastfeeding mothers still need to sleep, shower, and eat on occasion, so taking care of yourself while breastfeeding doesn’t have to be impossible. Here are some self-care tips to help you keep your sanity as a breastfeeding mother.
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Sleep when your baby sleeps
As a new mother, you’re probably not getting much sleep. And if you’re breastfeeding, you might be up even more during the night. But it’s important to try to get some rest when your baby sleeps. Otherwise, you’ll be too exhausted to take care of your little one. Here are some tips for sleeping when your baby sleeps
Eat Healthy, Smaller Meals
As a breastfeeding mother, you need to be extra careful about what you put into your body. Eating small, healthy meals throughout the day will help you maintain your energy levels and keep your milk supply up.
Delegate Chores (Dishes, Laundry, etc.)
When you’re trying to juggle breastfeeding and everything else, it’s important to delegate some of your chores to other people. Let your partner, family, or friends help out with things like dishes and laundry. This will free up some of your time so you can focus on taking care of yourself and your baby.
Take Time for Yourself
It’s important to take time for yourself, even if it’s just 10 minutes a day. Find something that relaxes you and stick to it, whether it’s reading, taking a bath, or taking a walk.
Create a Routine
A new baby means a lot of new changes, which can be tough to adjust to. One way to help make things feel more manageable is by creating (and sticking to) a routine. Get up at the same time each day, eat regular meals, and schedule in some me time whenever you can. This will help you feel more in control and less like you’re just going through the motions.
Let Go of Guilt
When breastfeeding mothers supplement with formula or pump and bottle-feed their babies, they feel guilty about it. However, we’re doing what’s best for our babies, so you can’t feel guilty. You deserve a break, so let go of the guilt.
