Tip number one: be sure to have you fridge and pantry stocked! There’s nothing worse than trying to figure out what you’re going to eat for dinner when you’re busy taking care of your newborn. Have wholesome snacks ready to grab and your favorite healthy takeout on speed dial. If you are part of a church or have a close friend group at work, ask them to set up a meal train for you or you can even put a meal train sign up at your baby shower. I once had a doula client, that made a snack and hydration stand right next to her glider where she was breastfeeding. Now, mom and baby can eat and drink at the same time! Here is a grocery list I give to my doula clients. This list is from Family Freezer, She has lots of great freezer meals and I thank her, because this list is really well organized. My favorite is the pepperoncini beef.
Tip number two: be prepared for the sleep deprivation. This part can be really hard on new parents. When you have a new baby you’re going to be feeding them on demand, they need to be held and loved on, it’s scary being in a new place. Remember, all they have ever known is you. Listening to the sound of your heart beating will keep them calm, hearing your voice will make them happy, the warmth of your skin will be their comfort. You are their whole world. So, it’s only natural that they are going to want you to hold them all the time and not be put in that beautiful bassinet you bought them. I'm sure people have told you, "sleep when the baby sleeps" and it's true. When your baby goes to sleep, do not take that time to tidy up the living room. Instead, lay down and sleep for an hour. A few thirty minute naps between feedings and diaper changes, throughout the day, can really make the difference too. The trick is to squeeze in sleep whenever possible. So, when the opportunity comes, don't pick up your phone and start scrolling, close your eyes and go to sleep.
Tip number three: be mindful of who visits you postpartum. Everyone loves a new born baby, they are so sweet and cuddly after all. But, the people you invite into your home need to be helping you, not sitting on your couch holding the baby while you get them a cup of coffee. It’s not your job to host people, it’s your job to take care of your baby and to heal from your birth. Have people over that will do the dishes for you, or start a load of laundry, or bring you your favorite smoothie. Of course, they will get some cuddle time, “can you hold my baby while I take a hot shower?” “Yes, I would love to!”
I sure hope you found this helpful! I want you to think of me as your virtual doula! Drop me a line here if you have any questions. Or if you want to stay in the loop and never miss another blog post, just click here. Come on you know you want to!
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