“The best medicine in the world is a mother’s kiss.”
Being a new mom can bring tremendous joy and happiness; and while quiet times at home snuggling up to your little one are amazing, it’s important to practice self-care. The female body produces high amounts of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy, and once the baby is born, the hormones drop. This drop in hormones can be a reason why some women suffer from postpartum depression after giving birth.
Sometimes we underestimate how taxing pregnancy can be on the body, which is why it is important for women to give their bodies time to adjust. Women who have had cesareans or epidurals should take the extra time necessary to recuperate. Physical stress on the body can be tough on the adrenals and thyroid, and women can experience symptoms resulting from undiagnosed thyroid conditions during the early stages of motherhood. Breastfeeding, engaging in skin-to-skin contact with your baby, balancing feedings with your sleep schedule–(we understand it’s not that easy) are all important tools for regulating and releasing happy hormones. So, there’s no rush. Take the time you need to rest, get back to you, and enjoy motherhood with optimal health, excitement, and positivity.
Wondering how to get started on your recoup journey? Check out a few of our favorite books:
- The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Balancing Your Emotions, and Restoring Your Vitality by Kimberly Johnson
- The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother by Marisa Belger
- Healing Your Body Naturally After Childbirth: The New Mom’s Guide to Navigating the Fourth Trimester by Jolene Brighten