Wellbeing Checklist for new Mothers

By Angie
Several dear patients at the clinic have recently given birth, or are due to give birth soon to their beautiful babies, and I have written this for them as well as for myself. Having a baby is a magnificent, transcendent experience that transforms the life of a new mother in a multitude of ways. Along with the bliss comes an unprecedented level of constant and sometimes challenging demands that must be met and it is tempting for a new mum to put all her needs on hold to tend to her precious new baby. Being a new mother myself, I know all too well how easy it is for this to happen. However, it is vitally important that we look after ourselves as mothers so that we can sustainably continue to give our little cherubs the love and care they deserve. It is also important to model a healthy attitude of self-care for our little ones as they grow up.

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With this in mind, I have put together a self-nurturing checklist for postpartum mothers. Have a look over the list and tick off the things that you are doing on a regular basis. Use your answers to reflect on how well you are looking after yourself, and where you see gaps try to think of ways you can improve your self-nourishment. Think of who you can ask for help. Lastly remind yourself of the reasons why you deserve to do this.

Remember that acupuncture is a valuable therapy for the postpartum period as among other things it can help facilitate your recovery, decrease fatigue, rebalance your hormones, reduce water retention, and reduce any stress and anxiety that you may be experiencing.

Self-nurturing checklist

• I am eating nourishing fresh food every day.
  
  
• I drink enough water every day
  
  
• I allow myself to rest when I need to
  
  
• I take naps with my baby
  
  
• I get some exercise every day (there is a great mums-and-bubs yoga class here)
  
  
• I get fresh air and sunlight every day
  
  
• I spend time in nature several times a week
  
  
• I look after my physical health and seek help for any issues that may come up
  
  
• I look after my teeth
  
  
• I schedule time for myself on a regular basis
  
  
• I ask for help when I need to and I allow myself to receive it
  
  
• I make time for friendships and other important relationships
  
  
• I take time to relax and enjoy my life
  
  
• I regularly do things that bring me joy and satisfaction
  
  
• I forgive myself when I make a mistake
  
  
• I take time to pamper myself every now and then (get a massage, have acupuncture, get a facial or a new haircut...)

It seems like a long list but these are all very important aspects of physical and emotional self-care. What other things can you think of to nurture yourself?