Sanity Saving Tips for New Moms

We ate a light lunch and rehashed the events of the last 48 hours while our new baby slept peacefully in the Pack ‘n Play next to us. Soon after, we bid farewell to my parents (because apparently my husband and I thought it was a BRILLIANT idea to figure out this ‘new baby thing’ on our own). The garage door closed, and my husband and I stared blankly at one another, as if to say, “Now what?!”

Familiar? Here are a few tips to help you ease into the transition of parenthood:

Rest.

Get as much rest as you can, when you can. You can’t be at your best when you’re exhausted, and you’re bound to be with a newborn. It’s so cliché to say, “Sleep when Baby sleeps,” but do it. The house chores and things you think you NEED to do can wait. Trust me. Ask a close friend or relative to stay with your baby while you catch an hour’s nap. It’s a win-win for everyone…they’ll get to cuddle a newborn while you get a nap!

Stock up. 

Check out Pinterest, brainstorm ideas with friends or simply do a Google search for freezer friendly meal ideas. Gather a few friends and cook together or agree to swap frozen meals. Stock up on household items, as well. Having cleaning supplies, paper goods and toiletries on hand will help. While you may look forward to getting out, it’s also nice to know you don’t have to.

ME time.

Yes, you time! Get a massage, go to Target alone, have lunch with a friend, go for a walk, sit outside, take a shower. “When I need a break or just a moment to relax, it is amazing how a shower can rejuvenate me,” says Overland Park first-time mom Katie O’Hara. “A few minutes of alone time can make a huge difference. It is also a time that I am spit-up free for a few moments before I dive back into the throes of mommy-hood.” 

Connect. 

Establish connections with other moms so you can share experiences, support one another and expose your child to a variety of people and environments at an early age. Check out groups at your church, local MOPS groups, a Little Bundles class at My Gym, or join Stroller Strides. Meredith Paranjothi, mom to a 3-year-old and owner of Stroller Strides, says, "Fit4Mom—Stroller Strides is a stroller-based workout that is fun for everyone. By using children's songs and activities, moms are able to exercise while entertaining our children. We also have mom's night out and playgroups outside of class time that allow us to interact and support each other as a community of moms.”

Hubby who?

You both may be exhausted, but try to have a date night within the first month or two after your baby is born. Schedule a sitter, head out for a walk together, grab a bite to eat or sneak in a friendly game of mini golf. If you don’t feel like you can get out, do a date night in. Fix dinner together, watch a movie or favorite TV show or play a game! It’s important to maintain a connection with your husband. After all, if you keep your relationship strong, you’ll not only be a support for one another but a positive role model for your children, as well!

It’s OK.

Don’t be afraid to put your baby in a safe place (crib, car seat, bassinet) and walk away for some time to calm down if you are feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed. If your baby has colic or is struggling to settle, put on some music, go for a drive or walk or turn on the vacuum. Be humble and ask for help whether it’s with household chores, errands or just needing a break.

While being a new mom is perhaps the most exciting and joyous time in your life, it can also overwhelm and intimidate even the most easygoing woman. Take heed of advice, but certainly trust your new motherly instincts.  A coworker of mine once said having a child changes your life from black and white to color.  What an amazing way to describe becoming a parent.  Enjoy!

Julie Collett has been a new mom and lived to tell the tale!  She currently resides in Overland Park with her husband of five years and two children, ages 2 ½ and 7 months.