I'm not sure I've quite figured out how to do it, but I do know that as moms it's important to take some time to ourselves. For brand-new moms — those who are sleep-deprived and overwhelmed — it can seem impossible, but it's almost essential so that you don't end up thinking of yourself as less of a human being and more of a milk-making, diaper-changing machine.
There was a time when my son was first born (a mere 12 weeks ago) that if my husband didn't insist I take a shower, I would skip it or jump in for just three minutes, so I could get stuff done around the house. I would forget to eat lunch and most days it would be 9 p.m. before I even thought about dinner. It was also my husband who made me realize that although it was okay to put my son first, a clean, rested and fulfilled mom would benefit him the most.
A few nights ago–after weeks of hitting the hay the second my son was asleep in his crib–I stayed up to finish a book I had been reading during his nursing sessions. And you know what? I wasn't any sleepier the next day, and it felt good to stay awake past 10 p.m. It made me feel more like me, and I think that's something many new moms long for.
I'm still early in my parental career, but my advice is to start small. Make sure you take a shower every day–wash your hair, shave your legs, enjoy the hot water. Take a few minutes to paint your toe nails or flip through your favorite magazine. Maybe do 10 minutes of a workout DVD or go online and treat yourself to a new dress. Whatever you enjoy, take a few minutes here and there to do it–chances are your significant other or a good friend would be more than happy to have a little one-on-one with your precious little one. Before you know it, your new baby won't be quite as dependent on you and you'll have no problem going out for lunch with the girls or spending a couple of hours at the spa.
What's your favorite way to unwind after a hectic day? Tell us in the comments below!
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