I have now been a mother for a little over a month. It’s been tiring and wonderful and challenging and magical all at once. The beginning of motherhood can be a time of high emotions and lots of different feelings. If you are currently a new mom as well, know that however you are feeling is okay, and if it feels like too much, please ask for help. We are in this together.
Here are the biggest things that have helped me over this first month:
Lots of support from my husband.
Especially in the first couple weeks of recovery, he was changing every diaper and doing all the chores and cooking. I was really just breastfeeding and resting. He is still doing the bulk of the work aside from breastfeeding. I would encourage you to seek support from your partner or community.
Taking it really slow and easy at first.
We had a tough birth and I had severe tearing, so I made a lot of time for rest – which often just meant sitting on the couch and watching TV.
Starting to take short strolls once I felt up to it.
Getting fresh air and sunshine – thankfully we’ve been having some warmer winter days – and light exercise has been really good for my mental health. The first two weeks, I was just walking to the mailbox. I’ve now gradually increased to longer walks and love getting out with H, Cleo, our dog, and baby each day that the weather is warm enough.
Taking showers every day.
This has been a nonnegotiable for me. Since coming home from the hospital I have showered every morning.
Talking to other new moms.
It has been so helpful to text with others who are going through what I’m going through right now. If you don’t know other new moms, you might look for postpartum mom groups in your area.
Reading while breastfeeding at night.
Initially I was staring into space during night feeds and trying not to fall asleep. Reading with my book light has made night feeds much more pleasant and go more quickly.
Eating well.
In my ninth month of pregnancy I did some meal prep and froze healthy ready-to-heat meals for us, and we have had some kind meal offers from friends and family. Eating as well as possible – and (per my OB) focusing on proteins and fats – helps recovery.
Taking naps.
I’ve never been a big napper, but taking a nap most days while the baby sleeps has really helped with sleep deprivation.
Asking for help when I need it.
This doesn’t come naturally to me, but it’s so important to be able to vocalize needs. H has helped encourage this by asking what he can do for me throughout the day, and my parents have done the same.
Having a useful resource.
For us, that has been Moms on Call. We have the 0-6 Month Book on hand and follow the suggested schedules closely. It’s been working wonderfully for us. I recommend having a resource that you like to consult for sleep, feeding, and other baby needs.
Take gentle care of yourself, and I’m here if you need to chat – feel free to reach out. We’ve got this! Spring will come; we’ll be out in the warmth with our babies, and things will feel easier.
Photos taken by HaleyClare Photography.
P.S. Our birth story and my word for 2026.
