Maternal health awareness

Today is World Maternal Mental Health Day. 🌎 ❤️

Being a new mom is a beautiful experience, but it can also be challenging, especially when it comes to your mental health.

Pregnancy and childbirth can bring a rollercoaster of emotions, ranging from joy and excitement to anxiety and fear. As a pregnant or postpartum mom, it's essential to prioritize your emotional well-being, just as you prioritize your physical health.

Here are 5 practical ways that I recommend to my students to prioritize their mental health and well-being as a new mom:

1️⃣ Prioritize self-care: Make time for activities you enjoy and find relaxing, such as taking a warm bath or practicing yoga. I know this can be easier said than done when you have a new baby, but it's important because taking care of yourself is necessary for your mental health.

2️⃣ Reach out for support: Join a new moms' support group like Calm Mama Society, or reach out to your partner, family, or friends for support. You're not alone, and it's okay to ask for help.

3️⃣ Get enough sleep: Sleep deprivation can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression, which is why prioritizing sleep is so important. This can look like taking turns with your partner at night, taking a nap when the baby naps, or finding help like a newborn care specialist.

4️⃣ Incorporate exercise: Exercise has numerous benefits for mental health, including reducing stress and improving mood. Even taking a walk with your baby can be considered exercise, and the fresh air is not only good for you, but for baby too.

5️⃣ Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is a powerful tool for managing stress and improving well-being. By staying present and non-judgmental of your thoughts and feelings, you can cultivate a sense of calm and reduce anxiety and stress. This can look like meditating, journaling, and more.

Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health.

By prioritizing self-care, seeking support, getting enough sleep, exercising, and practicing mindfulness, you can create a healthy and balanced lifestyle for yourself and your family.

What are you doing today to prioritize your self care?