We know of the importance of self-care through motherhood, pregnancy and postpartum: we tend to come last and our kids deserve happy, fulfilled moms who are taken care of too.
So here is my doula tip for you:
Make sure you are balancing mental, emotional and physical self-care type of activities, we NEED balance from the three pillars.
You need MENTAL clarity and stimulation. During the first few years of motherhood especially, we are purely mentally consumed by the high demands of our roles, which give our minds a fog and lack of motivation. So, download interesting podcasts you can listen to as you walk with your kids, meditate while you shower, organize your days, stop scrolling online and read a good educational or inspiring book instead before bed...
You need EMOTIONAL fulfillment to reduce or avoid possible depression symptoms, improve your self-esteem, feel in balance, feel deeper connections, remember your self-worth, honor your feelings and identify your needs. So, call a friend, schedule a date night (even if it's at home), and join support groups or find a doula/therapist if you have PPD or PPA symptoms.
You need the PHYSICAL activities to balance the physical demands of pregnancy, postpartum and motherhood. To feel strong and energized . And remember, basic hygiene is not self-care. It's an essential. Make sure you are doing more for yourself than the basics. So, buy eye patches and face masks you can easily add while around the kids, take an Epsom salt bath, prioritize nourishing foods and smoothies, go on walks and to bed earlier. And if you are currently pregnant, now is the perfect time to begin paying attention to these types of activities so they become a habit before the hectic postpartum days.
Save this list to make sure that you have ideas for quick + balanced self-care actions you can easily do, and share with a friend who may need it too!
For more ways on how to take care of YOU mom through the pregnancy and postpartum stage, check out my online courses: Pre & Early Pregnancy teaches you how to take care of you before and during early pregnancy up to 20 weeks, to support your journey fully.
Mom Care to teach you how to take care of you through end of pregnancy and postpartum (mentally, emotionally and physically) to feel at your best