The journey into motherhood is a rite of passage for you and your baby. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and grounded during this remarkable time.
Seek Education
Seek education on best health practices for your body, mind and soul. This includes nutrition, exercise, mindful and spiritual activities that will positively affect the healthy development of your baby. Choose a health care provider who you trust, who listens to you, and who supports you. He or she will be a huge source of information and provide unparalleled guidance.
Practice Relaxation
Practice relaxation, like meditation or prayer. It feels good! It benefits you by giving you the tools you need to have an easier, calm birth. Even simply taking a deep belly breath at a stop light can make a difference. By practicing relaxation regularly, your body will be more calm. When we’re calm, our tension melts away, and our bodies birth with ease.
Connect with your Baby
Connect with your baby. Sing songs, talk to him or her, and notice how they respond. If baby wakes you up in the middle of the night, say hello and rock him or her back to sleep. Having a rocking chair in your bedroom can really help soothe them back to sleep. Walking can help, too. Soon enough, your baby will begin to associate rocking with nestling and sleeping. They remember the sensation. This will help them rock to sleep peacefully as a newborn.
Surround Yourself with Support
Surround yourself with support. You get to choose your tribe. Having a circle of friends and family who will believe in you and support you will give you the strength and peace to have faith in yourself. This is your journey to becoming a mother, dear Mama. Let the love surround you.
I’m a counselor who specializes in supporting new mothers through birth, postpartum and the journey of parenthood. For additional support, contact our office at 512-651-1009 and ask for me, Molly. You can also email me directly at molly@gtowncounseling.com. I offer postpartum groups, birthing classes, and individual counseling.
You’ve got this, and I’ve got you!
Molly Crenshaw is a licensed professional counselor intern supervised by Candyace Ossefort-Russell, LPC-S. She works with children and adults and has a particular passion for helping new parents and those who are processing grief and trauma.
