Part 4 - Baby Yourself Why Handling Yourself With Kid Gloves May Not Be The Best Option For New Moms
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By Mia Bolaris-Forget
New babies need to be treated with kid gloves, but so do new moms. The key to health and happiness is balance. According to the experts, downtime with baby can be beneficial, but more so for first time moms on maternity leave, and moms with not other children or obligations and those who get very little sleep. Otherwise, professionals caution again it. According to specialists, indulging in too much rest and relaxation (including napping with baby) may actually disrupt “normal” sleep patterns and rob you of necessary energy and enthusiasm for effectively conducting your day.
For a well-balanced lifestyle experts suggest:
1. Get too fit to be tired: Squeeze in an exercise routine a few times a day. Invest in some workout “equipment” and DVDs or tapes. Try stretching, lifting light weights, yoga or Pilates. This is sure to boost your spirits and you energy for a few hours. 2. Stimulate your senses: Naturopathic professionals agree that stimulating your sense of smell with essential oils can actually enhance your mood. Scents such as pine, rosemary, and citrus can eliminate fatigue and stimulate your system. 3. Walk it Off: Walk off fatigue and “frustration” by taking baby out for some fresh air. This is also a good source of exercise. 4. Avoid “sipping” into something more comfortable: Caffeine is a great java jolt…but try to keep it to one cup a day….and definitely don’t indulge your caffeine craving after 4 or 5 pm, it may cut into your much needed (and recommended) down-time in the evenings. 5. Rub out additional tension: Have your spouse give you a massage or indulge each other in a relaxation treatment. Besides relieving stress and “anxiety”, it’s a great way to rekindle the romance between you and your partner. 6. Book some time off for yourself: Loose yourself in a good book or magazine. Make sure the material is not only enjoyable but also lighthearted. According to experts, this will stimulate, but not over-stimulate your mind. 7. Bath yourself in luxury: Take a nice hot bath. Add some bubbles or bath salts and really pamper yourself, especially before going to bed. Professionals note that a hot bath is not only soothing but the cool down helps induce relaxation and sleep. 8. Consider a bedtime snack: A small carbohydrate rich “meal’ could be the secret ingredient to a good night’s sleep. According to nutrition professionals, foods packed with carbs release certain brain chemicals associated with helping you attain a good night’s sleep. Your best bets: cereal and milk, crackers or toast and jam. 9. Choose “subtle” nuances: Consider switching from powerful (rock) classics to classical concertos and other soothing sounds. Dim the lights, turn off the TV and computer…and maybe even (lower) the ringer on the phone.
Next: Healing Time >>
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Part 4 - Baby Yourself Why Handling Yourself With Kid Gloves May Not Be The Best Option For New Moms
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