Your post pregnancy experience should be one of the most rewarding adventures you can ever have as a mother and you should enjoy this amazing new journey!
It is important that you keep not only your body, but your spirits up as well. Also, take your time before deciding that you are fit enough to start on your weight loss plans and give yourself some time to recover in peace!
During the first week of your recovery, get help from your partner or close relatives to take care of your baby. Although we understand that you want to spend some quality time with your newborn, it is still important that you get plenty of rest so that your body and mind can adapt to your new life.
In Japan, a woman would normally stay in the hospital for 4 -7 days, or up to 10 days if she has Caesarean, to allow the body and mind to get plenty of rest before resuming her duties as a new mum.
Statistically, the combined overall average stay in a hospital for Australian women after having vaginal or Caesarean birth is 3 days. In 2003, the number of women who went home after 48 hours of giving birth was 10.8% compared to 3.2% in 1991.
Take some time off for at least a few extra days to be mentally prepared and let yourself get used to the idea of being a new mum. After all, if you are not in the right frame of mind to take care of your baby, you could possibly develop postpartum depression and this will also affect your infant.
According to Dr. Shoshana Bennett, a Northern Carolina clinical psychologist, infants with depressed mothers were less active, less vocal, and make fewer facial expressions. She also mentioned that these infants display higher heart rates when interacting with their mums because of anxiety.
To relieve stress and refresh your mind, go for a walk with your newborn around the park and take in some fresh air. This is a good opportunity for you to get out of the house whilst still being able to spend time with your baby.
Also, try to get as much sleep as you possibly can. If you still can’t fall asleep even when you want to, read a book or a magazine to take your mind off the stress. The key here is to direct focus onto doing something that helps you relax.
Of course, the combination of a healthy diet plan and an exercise plan can also help you keep your stress levels down. Keep your body well stocked with healthy carbohydrates, protein and fibre. You need these food groups to help you feel happier, healthier and to optimise your weight loss plans. It also gives you more energy to do the extra activities that keep you happy such as watching TV or even chatting with friends over the phone. We also have plenty of nutritious and yummy recipes to help make life easier and healthier for you.
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