The royal baby is here! Our advice for new mums
With the arrival of the royal baby, new mum Meghan Markle will surely be feeling the rollercoaster of motherhood. Becoming a new mum is one of life’s biggest milestones, no matter who you are.
You will be forgiven for feeling a little (or a lot) overwhelmed as you transition into this new phase of life. No one can tell you how to navigate the journey ahead – though many will try. You were born to be a mum, and so you know in your heart exactly how it’s done.
You may not have a royal baby and all that comes along with it, but you do have everything you need to make it through being a new mum with ease and grace. And we’re here to hold your hand on the ride with our top tips for new mums.
Take a break
Our advice for new mums that many overlook is the need to take a break! Don’t feel guilty for leaving bubs in someone else’s care when you can. Soak up your time together and when you have an opportunity to take ten minutes to walk around the block or have a shower – pass that beautiful bub on and breathe in this time to yourself.
You may not have time for something as indulgent as a massage or a meal out – but you can take a moment to lie down alone, have a cup of tea, or simply take a few deep breaths.
Breathe
Speaking of breathing – don’t underestimate the power of the breath in bringing your nervous system back into balance. When you find yourself feeling burnt out or overwhelmed, take a few moments to notice your breath.
As a new mum, you are most likely breathing short and shallow breaths into your chest – as this is your body’s way of coping with stress. Try encouraging the breath – instead – to move all the way into your lower belly. It won’t be long before you become noticeably calmer.
Stay social
Being a new mum can be an isolating experience for many. Your world has been turned upside down and it’s so easy to curl into your comfort zone. But maintaining a social network will help keep you sane. Join a mothers’ group, invite a friend over for a cuppa, go along to a local mums and bubs fitness class or put baby in the pram and walk to your favourite café.
Seek support
Another tip for new mums; when people ask what they can do to help – tell them. Most of us don’t have a royal baby with royal help! Give your mum your ‘to do’ list, let your best friend do the dishes, and don’t feel like you need to do everything. You don’t need to have the house perfectly clean and dinner on the table when your partner comes home. If you have little ones at home, teach them how to help you (even start before baby arrives) and don’t be afraid to reach out.
Be a bit bendy
If this is your first time as a new mum you may be feeling a tad shocked. This parenting thing is not an easy gig. How would it feel to re-adjust your expectations to cater for this huge change? Can you let go of the need for a clean house, time to yourself and a perfect routine? It’s only temporary.
Be kind to yourself. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and anxious. Soak up these moments while they last, and remember; you don’t need a royal baby to be a majestic mum.
Looking for advice for new mums? From health and fitness to breathing techniques, we have your back!
