2023 Author: Anita Thornton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-22 03:30
Overcoming fatigue and regaining energy is quite a challenge in the first months of a baby's life. We asked our community for their top anti-fatigue tips to get through this time without too many dark circles and sleepless nights.
Say "no" at the visit
We know all the family and friends will want to come see your little treasure, but don't be shy about setting your limits. Don't make a long-term commitment either, and give yourself the chance to change your mind if you feel more tired one day. Listen to your desires and not those of others.
Eat he althy
Food is the most important source of energy after sleep, so it should not be neglected. Be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and stock the pantry with nutritious snacks like nuts for those busy days when you may not have time to prepare food.
Don't do everything as a couple
We know that the urge to do everything as a couple in the first weeks is strong. It's so much more reassuring, isn't it?However, it's the best way to wear yourself out if you get up together every night to drink the baby. Alternate nights, feedings and spotting as much as possible (see mixed feeding below). For example, you could take advantage of the time your spouse is giving the bath to go take a quick nap.
Consider Mixed Breastfeeding
This breastfeeding method allows you to involve and team up with your spouse to feed your baby. Mixed breastfeeding, i.e. bottle-feeding, can be introduced from 6 weeks when breastfeeding is going well. By expressing your milk or putting formula in a bottle that dad can give you, you can skip a drink and sleep for several hours at a time.
Try co-sleeping
Some adopt it, others don't, but don't be closed to this idea if it's the solution you find to sleep better and thus gain an extra hour or two of sleep each night.
Get Baby Pace
It means to sleep at the same time as baby and therefore a lot during the day and a little at night. This principle is easier said than done, but really, give it a try.
Delegate
Get groceries and medicine delivered and order online. Get a caterer and housekeeper for a few weeks if you can afford it. Ask friends and grandparents for help and stop being afraid to disturb. Go out for some fresh air, go dogroceries alone, have a coffee with a girlfriend for even an hour. You'll go home energized and more patient.
Move with baby
Exercise may seem absurd to you when your energy level is at zero, but we assure you that a brisk walk or a jogging stroller will give you energy and will promote your sleep at night. Studies have proven it!
Adopt the carry
Placing baby in a carrier will allow you to go about your daily activities while baby is awake so you can go and rest when he falls asleep. Babies falling asleep in the carrier despite the sound of the vacuum cleaner are not uncommon. Try it!
Live from day to day
Don't see your situation as a permanent situation and tell yourself that your lack of sleep will end. There will be good days and bad days. You have to take them one at a time and never forget that this period of life is temporary and that one day you will miss it.
