When a baby is born, the focus immediately shifts to the needs of that child. However, I encourage you to take a moment to recognize the identity change a woman has just endured. In motherhood, the expectation is to make time to meet your biological, social and psychological needs as a woman but also to manage the health and wellness of your other children, navigate relationships with a partner, friends, family, and complete everyday tasks.
Basic self-cares that could previously be done without a second thought are now influenced by another person as well as a mother’s physical ability to move herself postpartum, which can be incredibly difficult as pain, discomfort, and pressure may be present. Self-cares such as dressing, feeding, toileting, and bathing are repetitive in nature and when done without proper engagement of core and glutes, pressure management and correct posture can increase the stress and pain on mom’s body.
Daily activities that were once prioritized pre-baby, such as sleeping a full 8 hours or spending free time with other adults have changed now that you have another person totally dependent on you. Spending time with friends may now be managed according to baby’s nap or feeding schedule and sleep may only be occurring in 2-hour periods of time. It is okay to acknowledge that your priorities have changed and that may make you feel a little lost. Motherhood is truly a time of transition that has no timeline or end date. You are doing a truly amazing job. Don’t forget that you deserve to be taken care of!
