Self Care Practices From A Postpartum Doula
Taking care of yourself helps you to be the best version of you.
Why is self care so important?
The thing is; the pattern you set for your personal recovery during postpartum can greatly affect your health in the coming years. It is important to make time to rest, heal and mentally recover from your birthing experience. Refer to my post on The Golden Month here to read more about that.
Self Care is important but let’s be honest, not everyone has access to high-end or expensive forms of self-care. With that being said, these practices will be a more attainable list of things you can do regardless of financial status and time you do or do not have to be alone.
When mom is at her best, baby gets the best version of mom.
Self-care is not selfish
Can’t Get A Moment?
There are plenty of ways to modify self care to work within your circumstances. If you don’t have time or support to completely step away for a moment, here are some simple and affordable ideas you can do!
Sitz Bath (see instructions below)
Affirmations
Mini spa day (foot bath, face mask, & fav nursing snacks)
Diffuse oils or favorite scents
Take a much needed nap
Talk a walk or sit in the sunshine! (Soak up that vitamin D)
Do something just for you that does not benefit anyone else
Write yourself a love letter (talk about what you’ve sacrificed, who you are and how much your body has done for you. Show your mind and body some love!)
Do something that reminds you of your old self
Listen to or find your new favorite podcast!
Order Uber Eats…DO IT! You deserve it
Sitz Bath
*make sure you check with your provider before taking baths
In a clean bath tub, fill a few inches of warm water
Add Epsom salts and essential oils like lavender
Soak for 15-20 minutes
Wearing a t-shirt can help keep your upper body warm while soaking
How can hiring a Doula help with self-care?
Not only can a doula help with some light chores or start a sitz bath for you, but hiring a doula is where self-care and family care meet.
Postpartum Doula’s can promote family bonding activities. They are able to create space and time for self-care and family needs to be done simultaneously, that way your tank can be filled but that other things don’t get neglected. (Isn’t that always the internal battle for mothers?)
Seren Doula Services LLC prides itself on making a place and integrating self care and family care. So that every member of the family feels supported with such an exciting new addition.
Curious to see if Postpartum Doula services would be right for you and your family? Contact me here and let’s chat!