7 Ways You Can Take Care of Yourself as New Parents

Last Updated on May 13, 2022 by Joshua Isibor

Many changes come as you welcome a little angel into your life. Some even say you should say goodbye to life as you know it because everything is going to be different from here on out. Whether it is getting used to new sleeping patterns or learning how to change a diaper, having a newly born baby definitely requires a lot of your time and energy.

While it is true that your life has changed once you have a child (and for the better, while we’re at it), it does not mean that you have to stop doing the things that you love. In fact, it is wise for you to keep doing it from time to time. Having a child means having an additional little person to love and care for, not that your whole life must be solely focused on them. 

Having said that, taking care of yourself should still be one of the things on top of your priority list. This is because you need to make sure that you are in a good state both mentally and physically, to be able to take good care of your baby. Here we have concluded some self-care tips you can do as you navigate through parenthood.

Exercise regularly

Though this must be the last thing you want to do, exercising regularly will gradually increase your body’s energy and reduce your stress level. So, by simply dedicating 30 minutes each day for a workout, not only can you take better care of your mini-me, but you get to be in a better condition while doing so.

If yoga and pilates are not your cups of tea, taking a walk outside or at a park can be an option. While using an air purifier in your home is already beneficial, by stepping outside, you get to breathe in some fresh air while being accompanied by beautiful scenery that can surely refresh your mind. 

Be kind to yourself

As you adapt to being a new parent, there will be times when you don’t think you’re cut out to be one. It can be as small as piled-up dishes and laundry or as unsettling as your baby running a fever. What you have to understand is that these little bumps do not equal to you being a bad parent; every parent goes through them.

In fact, it simply means that you are now a parent, and you are still adapting to the sudden changes that having a baby brings. So cut yourself some slack and be gentle with yourself. Not every corner in your house has to be spotless, and besides, your sink and laundry basket are there for a reason. 

Now is not the time to be independent

Part of being a parent is admitting when you need help. For example, there will be a point where taking turns with your partner does not work anymore, and you’re both exhausted. When that happens, for your baby and yourself, ask for someone’s help.

Needing a helping hand will never mean that you are not a good parent. It simply means that you are wise enough to know when you’ve reached your limit and mature enough to put your baby’s safety on top of your own ego. 

Take some time for yourself

Whether it is turning on your portable speaker and drowning yourself in loud music at a nearby hotel room or booking a whole-day spa appointment, it is important for you to take a chance to just be by yourself. At times, people lose themselves and start thinking that their life isn’t theirs anymore due to the hustle and bustle of being a new parent. 

To make sure this doesn’t happen to you, take turns with your partner in scheduling a day or a couple of hours in a day when you get just to be yourselves. This way, you can return home with renewed energy and a fresh state of mind.

Keep in touch with your best friends

As you take care of your newly born mini-me, you will find yourself with less time to hang out with your best friends. While that is normal, it is important for you to still be in touch with them from time to time.

So, the next time your baby is asleep, take out your HP laptop and take some time to catch up with your best friends through video calls. Better yet, should you have the time, go out and meet them for brunch or a night out. Then, allow yourself the time to simply be you and balance the role scale, so when the time comes again, and you have to take on your role as a parent, you can give it your best. 

Strengthen your relationship with your partner

Often, your relationship with your partner will take the back seat because of the presence of your child. However, it is important to make sure that the connection between the two of you is still alive and well. 

Allow yourselves some time now and again to just be alone together. Let your family or friends take care of your baby and go on a date night or a mini staycation for the weekend. This can be a reminder you need that you are not alone in this journey of being a parent and that you’ll always have them by your side.

Consider therapy

Should you feel like being a parent is taking too much of a toll on you as a person, then seeing a professional can be worth considering. When you treat parenting as part of growing up, you’ll understand that going to see a professional does not mean you fail as a parent. Instead, it shows that you are a good parent, as you care enough for your child to put their need for a good parent first, before anything else.

A huge part of being a good parent is to take care of yourself. This way, you get to make sure that you’ll be there to take care of your children for as long as they need you to. Good luck and take care!

ALSO, READ HOW TO DISCIPLINE YOUR CHILD