[Image Credit: iStock}
Parenthood is kind of an awesome thing. You get to watch, guide, and help another little human being learn about and find their place in the world. It’s not an easy or glamorous job, and most people have told you that going into the great parenting adventure. But it still somehow takes you by surprise when you find yourself in pajamas at 3 a.m., two week’s worth of undone laundry, an unhappy toddler, and you can’t remember the last time you washed your hair.
It’s those moments when we’re reminded of just how hard parenting can be and might just need to be reminded to take care of ourselves too. While it’s normal to feel exhausted, the last thing you want is to burn yourself out and fall into the parenthood trap that leaves you feeling angry, overwhelmed and irritable with your partner. To help new parents on their way for a more healthier well-being that leaves you feeling fresh, we share five self-care tips to keep your sanity and Zen after having kids.
Get dressed every day
When you have children, especially little ones, it is so easy to just rock the pajamas all day long. There’s a fine line between comfort and complacency, though, so one great way to take care of yourself is to get dressed in real clothes every day. It doesn’t have to be anything more than a t-shirt and jeans, just the act of getting dressed can be a pick-me-up. It also makes it easier to do the next self-care tip on our list.
Get out of the house
If you’re a stay at home parent, especially of a small child, getting out of the house can be quite the ordeal sometimes. With all the preparation to be ready to go out it can be easier just to stay in. But staying in can lead to isolation and isolation can make you feel depressed. Taking the time to get out of the house, even if it’s just a walk around the block, goes a long way to refreshing and recharging. Bonus points if you can manage to get out of the house alone.
Give yourself the night off
The kids are finally in bed and quiet. It’s prime time to clean up from the day and try to get as much done as possible before collapsing yourself. It’s a tried and true clever use of time, but it’s also a good use of time to give yourself some down time. Take the night off every once in awhile! Have a favorite beverage, watch a favorite TV show, put up your feet and relax. You’ve definitely earned it.
Have a non-multitasking meal
Food is pretty much an Olympic event as a parent. You either end up sharing your snacks and food with the little one or you have to interrupt your own meal to feed the little one. The one-hand dinner event is one any parent is familiar with, Every now and then, though, be kind to yourself. Trade off with your partner in feeding your child so that you can focus on your own meal.
Remind yourself you’re doing a great job
There are days when it seems like you’re doing everything wrong. The baby’s crying all day, you’ve been through ten outfit changes, and nothing is going the way you planned it. But there are also days when your little one is all laughter, smiles, and positive milestones. Both extremes are totally normal and if you’re having both of those kinds of days? You’re doing a good job. Parenting is hard work. Don’t forget to give yourself a pat on the back every now and again, and reaffirm those positive dialogues of all your efforts.
What are some of your best self-care tips for new parents? Let us know in the comments section below!
The Hudsucker 
Leave A Reply [Invalid Emails Will Be Marked As Spam]