Motherhood is a wonderful experience that brings so much joy and fulfillment, but it can also be overwhelming, especially for new mums. With so many responsibilities and tasks to handle, it's easy to feel stressed and a little anxious. It can be a hard time and today we will talk about some tips on managing the overwhelm and taking care of the mother, alongside the little one.
1.Prioritise self-care
Self-care is often neglected by mothers who are busy taking care of their families. However, taking care of yourself is essential to your mental and emotional wellbeing. Make time for activities you enjoy, such as reading, relaxing baths, coffee with friends, getting outside or practicing yoga. It's also
important to prioritise eating healthily, getting enough sleep, and moving regularly.
2. Create a routine
Having a routine can help you feel more in control of your day and reduce the overwhelm. Set a regular schedule for waking up, meal times, nap times, and bedtime. This will also help your child get into a routine, which can make things easier for both of you.
3.Learn that saying no is okay
As a mother, it's easy to feel like you have to do everything for everyone. However, it's important to learn to say no when you need to, or when you want to. If you're feeling overwhelmed or overcommitted, it's okay to say no to social events, volunteer activities, or other obligations that aren't essential.
4. Ask for support
Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. This could mean asking your partner to take care of the children for a few hours so you can have some time to yourself or reaching out to family and friends for help. You can also consider hiring a babysitter or joining a mother's group for support and advice.
5. Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is a practice that involves being present in the moment and non-judgmentally accepting your thoughts and feelings. It can help you manage stress and reduce overwhelm. You can practice mindfulness by taking a few deep breaths, meditating, or simply focusing on your senses and surroundings. Taking a nap or writing in a journal can also help.
6.Set realistic expectations
It's important to set realistic expectations for yourself as a mother. You don't have to be perfect, and making mistakes is okay. Recognise that motherhood is a journey, and it's okay to learn and grow along the way.
7. Break tasks into smaller steps
When you have a lot of tasks to handle, it can be overwhelming to think about everything at once. Break tasks into smaller steps, and tackle them one at a time. This can help you feel more in control. Understand that it is okay if everything isn't done. It's okay for the washing to be waiting to be folded
or for dirty dishes to be in the sink for a little longer.
Managing overwhelm as a mother is an ongoing practice. Utilise some or all of these tips to support your self-care and manage your own stress and overwhelm. And remember, you're doing a great job, and it's okay to take care of yourself too. In fact, it is essential.