Did you laugh immediately when you saw this title? I don't blame you...
If you're a new mom, it seems impossible to think about sleep right now. Because the first year of a baby's life is when he/she needs you the most - your baby is fully dependent on YOU for the most basic of needs. Meaning, you don't really have an option to sleep.
But...YOU NEED SLEEP MAMA. Sleep is a HUGE factor to your overall health and well-being, and when you don't get enough of it, it makes you as impaired as someone who is legally intoxicated.
Feeling drunk yet?
Here are a few tips on how to get more sleep as a new mom:
1) Get help. However you can - your spouse, a mother-in-law, a nanny (if within your budget). Ask them to take over one night so you can get a good night's rest. And trust them. Don't wake up every hour panicking that something is going wrong. Your baby will be fine, so GO TO SLEEP!
2) Spend as much time as you can with the baby during the day. This will help with the "abandonment and guilt" feeling during long stretches away at night.
3) Limit coffee intake to 1 cup a day. I know...seems impossible, but try to do it. This will help you rest better at night.
4) Nap when the baby naps. I used to HATE when people would say this - because when my daughter napped, it was time to get sh*t done! But the truth is, that sh*t can wait - it will still be there tomorrow. Even just 15-20 minute naps are helpful.
5) Be comfortable saying NO. Friends and family are going to want to see you and the baby right away. Learn to say NO, and be okay with it.
6) Create a relaxing bedtime routine. Once the baby is down, take a warm bath, read a book or drink some tea. If you tend to feel overwhelmed around bedtime, take the time to journal - this will help you process the emotions you are feeling and help you feel more relaxed.
Sleep well friends...
Next up: Foods that will help you sleep.
If you're a new mama who is struggling with sleep, or anything else, I've been there....and I'd love to help you. My 6-week Budding to Blooming Program starts this Spring. Click here for more details and to schedule your free consultation call to see if the program is right for you.
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