Having a baby can bring on a world of emotions, from excitement and joy to anxiety and fear. Newborns require a lot of care, so it is normal to feel excited, worried, and tired. During this time it is important for new parents to take care of themselves.
Do you remember the last time you were on an airplane? Do you remember what they say about the oxygen mask? Put your oxygen mask on first and then help others.
Self-care especially for new parents is essential, but also hard to do. How do I find the time? Is self-care selfish? What does that even look like?
Self-care is not about being selfish, but about taking care of ourselves and recognizing that we are humans. We need to rest, relax, and rejuvenate. When we feel those things we are more engaged and productive. Self-care for new parents can be something like positive self talk, taking a relaxing shower, doing a date night with your partner, or even going to get a massage.
Writing the list below and placing in the nursery or somewhere you spend a lot of time is an example of positive self talk.
- I am enough
- I am the parent my baby needs
- I am capable
- I am learning every day
- I can and should ask for help when I need it.
