One of our deep-seated beliefs of motherhood centers on the innate selflessness that goes along with it, so it comes as no surprise that new mothers are particularly vulnerable to feeling stressed, depressed, and basically exhausted. While we all want to do everything we can for our children and our families, there is a limit. In turn, if we don’t find ways to instill harmony and relaxation into our busy lives, not only will we never feel peace, but there is little hope our children or spouses will be content either. Remember: “If mama ain’t happy, nobody’s happy,” and doing things for yourself that make you feel good is not a luxury — it is a necessity!
Here are seven ways to de-stress in just 15 minutes:
1. Don’t clean at nap time
A short nap can quite literally be the absolute best thing you can do all day. Having more energy after a brief rest period will boost your body and spirit loads much more than finishing up the dirty dishes.
2. But do schedule ways to keep your house tidy
You don’t necessarily have to do it all yourself. Enlist help from in-laws and friends, delegate to your older children, and discuss the division of labor with your spouse. Bring in other people to share in the responsibility, so it doesn’t all fall on your shoulders. An uncluttered home is a peaceful home.
3. Continue regular beauty routines
Skin tells the tales of sleepless nights, inadequate nutrition, and sheer exhaustion most commonly in the form of breakouts and dryness. All you need to do to remedy this are two simple things: moisturize with a thick, soothing lotion everyday, and completely remove your make-up at night.
4. Bath oils
Essential oils are currently all the rave — and with good reason. Lavender has anti-anxiety effects, mandarin calms, and bergamot is recognized for relaxation. Known to soothe your mind and nerves, certain scents can physically calm you, not to mention a relaxing, hot bath is one of the true pleasures in life.
5. Make comfort a priority
After pregnancy, delivery, and sleepless nights, you deserve some comfort. There is nothing better than plush, soft materials to make you feel soothed. Invest in a nice pair of super soft sweatpants, T-shirts, and a hoodie. There are so many stylish and plush options available, you can look great and — even better — feel great.
6. Eat well, drink often
Keeping your blood sugar level up and your body well hydrated are often forgotten requirements. The hormonal changes that occur after a delivery, during breastfeeding, and while losing sleep can wreak havoc on an eating schedule. Dehydration and low blood sugar can make you feel terrible in the form of headaches, muscle spasms, anxiety, shakiness, and sluggishness.
Keep a water bottle and fresh fruit, veggies, and protein available, and eat and drink at regular intervals. If you are having trouble making meals, you can hire food preparation services, like Dinner At Home, which specializes in delivering up to three meals a week for expectant and new mothers (and fathers), and growing families.
7. Learn to say “No”
“Oh, you’re home today, maybe you can meet me for lunch, go shopping, pick up my kids, write the school newsletter, take over the fund-raiser …” the list goes on and on. And it will continue if you keep saying yes to things you do not want to do.
We as women have not been indicted with a life sentence of pleasing others (although many of us have imposed this punishment on ourselves). A simple, “No, I can’t do that,” is all the explanation you need, and the first time is purely empowering. You don’t have to explain everything to everybody.
• • •
By taking care of yourself and your own needs, you will ensure a more peaceful you, which will result in a harmonious family environment.
Danielle Sullivan, a mom of three, has worked as a writer and editor in the parenting world for more than 10 years. Sullivan also writes about pets and parenting for Disney’s Babbl
