As a mum, taking care of yourself can be tough. Between looking after your children and managing the daily tasks of life, finding time to get back into shape post natal can seem impossible. But if you don't take some conscious steps to prioritise yourself, it will be very hard for you as a mother (and possibly as a partner) to feel your best both mentally and physically.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways that you can gradually ease yourself back into shape without sacrificing much-needed rest or quality time with loved ones. Here is some helpful information on how to restore balance in your health routines after giving birth so you can start feeling healthier and more confident today!
Focus on low-impact exercises
Returning to exercise after giving birth may seem like a daunting task, but there is no need to jump head-first into it. Start slowly and gently as your body heals from the physical demand of childbirth, if you overload your body with too much activity too soon, you can set yourself up for fatigue and injury. Focus on low-impact exercises such as yoga Windsor, swimming and biking, as these are gentle yet effective in helping to get your muscles back in physical condition.
Additionally, plan out a steady but gradual progression when increasing the intensity or duration of your exercises. Finally, it’s always a good idea to stay hydrated while exercising and consult your doctor before starting an exercise routine, especially if you’re feeling sore or drained all the time. With this approach you’ll be able to enjoy a sustained fitness routine that benefits both your mind and body!
Fresh air on a daily basis provides healthy benefits
Taking a walk with your baby in the stroller after giving birth is the perfect way to start integrating fitness into your lifestyle. Not only are you getting physical activity, but you're also building priceless bonds with your little one. Going for slow strolls will help you ease yourself back into working out and gradually increase your endurance, all while spending quality time with your baby.
Fresh air on a daily basis provides healthy benefits to both mother and child, creating lasting memories for both of you. Spending some time outdoors is a great way to prioritize self-care in the busy life of parenthood, so don't skip that postpartum walk!
Eating the right foods
Having a baby is a huge accomplishment! Feeling your best postpartum begins with hydration and nourishment – so don’t forget to drink plenty of fluids and eat healthily. Staying hydrated will keep your body functioning at its best during those chaotic early days and weeks.
Eating the right foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and heart-healthy fats can help promote energy levels, replenish vitamin stores and regulate hormones. Keep in mind that it takes time for your body to heal following birth and staying nourished is one way to support that process!
Simple exercises to start with
Pregnancy can sometimes leave you feeling exhausted both physically and mentally. To help balance this out, it's important to do some light exercises that are safe for pregnant women. You don't need to break any records, instead just take appropriate safety measures while performing activities like personal trainer Windsor led workouts or Windsor yoga at a nearby gym.
All of these are great ways to stay active during pregnancy and help strengthen your body and mind, so get out there and have fun!
Get as much rest as possible
Motherhood is a journey like no other and can feel daunting to new moms. Allow yourself the grace to enjoy it, because you won’t get that new-born phase back again! One of the best pieces of advice I can give any new mom is to make sure you get as much rest as possible. You’re going to be up with late night feedings, so cut yourself some slack during the day, curl up on the couch when your little one is napping and don’t be too hard on yourself if you didn't get everything accomplished.
Don’t forget, rest isn’t just physical, it also helps recharge our mental and emotional energies too! Relax whenever you find a window of time and really take it in, cherish these early days with your sweet baby.
Don't set expectations that are impossible
New motherhood can be an overwhelming experience, but it's important to remember that you don't need to have it all figured out right away. It is understandable if you feel a little out of your element at first; being responsible for raising and caring for another human being requires a lot of energy and emotional labour! Don't set expectations that are impossible to reach - expect success but also consider the possibility of failure and don't get discouraged if things don't always go as planned.
One piece of advice that many mothers share with others is not to be too hard on yourself when it comes to getting back into your pre-baby shape. It took 9 months for your body to grow and nurture a baby, so give yourself some grace and remember it will take time for it to heal after giving birth.
Focus on making healthy choices when you can, nature will take its course in its own time.