babyvibe
link link     link
     
  Babyvibe  
 
  Kindervibe homeFAQsarchivesresourcesmarketplace
    newsletter archive
  February 16, 2010 | self-care, mom
       
   

Finding peace in your new nest

They call it nesting – this overpowering urge that women have to clear, clean & organize in the final days before birth. It doesn’t take long postpartum to understand why we nest . . . .

Turns out we spend a lot of time at home as new mothers. Having a precious new life in our home brings a new level of awareness to our surroundings. That pile of papers that you’ve been ignoring for months? Now you find yourself staring right at it as you sit nestled on the couch feeding your baby. It was easier to ignore when life was moving faster.

At the same time, new parenthood is hardly the time to be a champion homemaker. Baby becomes your number one priority, self-care a close second, and home a distant third. Don’t push yourself to maintain your household standards from before baby.

Here are a few tips to help you find peace in your nest as a new mother:

Keep it Simple

Choose one room or corner of your home to keep clear – the nook where you breastfeed, the kitchen counter . . . . Even just one clean space can make a big difference in how you feel in your home.

Get Help

When family and friends visit, help them know how to best help you by giving them a small household chore. The first year of motherhood is a great time to invest in a monthly cleaning service.

Don’t Let Clutter In

All those lovely bags of baby gear people graciously pass on? Take only what you need and donate or pass on the rest. Remember, if you don’t have it, you don’t have to wash it, fold it or store it.

Most important of all, be gentle with yourself. Over time you will find a new normal that will work for you and your family.

BV Sarah Juliusson is the mother of two boys, and co-founder of Mama Renew, offering groups for new and seasoned mothers. To learn more or enjoy writings on motherhood, visit www.MamaRenew.ca. She also mentors Birthing From Within prenatal classes with Dancing Star Birth.

BVarchives

 
balance

 

Sponsor link:
babies in bloom

   
          birdies  
         
           
               
   
©  2010 Vibe Family Publications   |   about   |   advertise   |   contact   |   privacy and editorial policy   |   sign-up   |   terms and conditions