Hey Mama, are you feeling postpartum overwhelm? You’re not alone! The fourth trimester can be very challenging. I know as a twin mama how overwhelmed I was during the newborn stage, the constant feedings, crying and trying to comfort. There many ways to reduce the feeling of overwhelm in postpartum. Here are some tips to help you navigate this time as a new mama.
Acknowledge Your Feelings
It’s okay to feel post overwhelm. Becoming a new mama is a HUGE transition. It’s important to give yourself a little grace. Recognize you’re feeling overwhelmed in the moment, and tell yourself it’s ok to feel this way. Remember, you’re doing an great job!
Prioritize Self-Care
Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Here are some quick self-care tips:
- Rest When You Can: Rest doesn’t always mean sleep, but if you can fit in a power nap, do it!
- Eat Nutritious Foods: Healthy meals help your body to heal and also provide energy throughout the day. Keep snacks like nuts, fruits, and yogurt handy.
- Stay Hydrated: I always say this! It’s so important. Being hydrated can help your body heal and have energy
Simplify Your Routine
The early postpartum days don’t have to be complicated. Keep it simple!
- Focus on Essentials: Recognize your most important tasks and let go of the others.
- Meal Prep: Bulk prep meals or take time to cut up fruit and veggies or order from a meal delivery service.
- Delegate Chores: Ask for help, you don’t have to do it alone. Some days you need someone else to give you a helping hand. All you have to do is ask.
Build a Support System
Creating a good support system is so important.
- Family and Friends: They can help with chores, be a listening ear or simply hold the baby so you can have a few moments to yourself.
- Support Groups: Getting to know other mamas can be a gamechanger! Join local community groups or find an online group that fits.
- Professional Help: Consider hiring a postpartum doula (like me!) to provide guidance and support. We are there to help you and the baby in those early days.
Practice Mindfulness
Being present can help reduce the feeling of overwhelm significantly.
- Mindful Breathing: Take a few moments each day to focus on your breath. Inhale deeply, hold, and exhale slowly.
- Gratitude: Reflect on things you are grateful for, even if they’re small, like your baby’s smile or a quiet moment to yourself. I found this practice extremely helpful in the postpartum period.
Communicate Your Needs
Don’t keep how you’re feeling inside. Those around you want to support you but they need to know what will help.
- Talk to Your Partner: Share how you’re feeling with your partner and let them know how they can support you.
- Seek Professional Help: If you’re feeling persistently overwhelmed, consider talking to a therapist or counselor. After I found my counsellor it helped me to process how I was feeling and to let go of what didn’t serve me.
Take It One Day at a Time
The postpartum period doesn’t last forever.
- Celebrate Small Wins: If you have a great feeding session or your baby sleeps for a couple hours, celebrate! That’s really exciting.
- Be Kind to Yourself: You’re learning and growing just like your baby. Be gentle with yourself and take each day as it comes.
Mama, you’ve got this! The fourth trimester is tough, but with these tips, you can manage the postpartum overwhelm and find more peace and joy during this postpartum time. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and take care of yourself. You’re not alone on this journey!
If you need more support or have any questions, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you thrive in your postpartum journey.
Have you tried any of these tips? Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter for more postpartum support and tips.
