Postpartum is defined as the time that follows childbirth, but mothers know all too well that there is much more to postpartum than a stated period. Postpartum is not just the first six weeks after labour, but the struggles that come with it – the stresses, anxieties, sleepless nights and even mood swings.
As exciting as it can be, adjusting to motherhood can be emotionally and physically taxing for most women, which is why new mothers need to take proper care of yourself. Whether it’s getting enough rest or nutrients, the sooner you strengthen your body, the sooner your body can go back to full swing. To get you started, use these helpful tips as you ease into postpartum.
1. Always prioritise rest
For new mothers, rest is just as crucial before and after your delivery. If you have recently gone into labour, it’s recommended to extend your maternity leave at least twelve weeks after – not just to allow yourself to grow accustomed to your new life, but also to provide the rest that your body needs.
While getting more quality rest may prove challenging with the need to care for an energetic newborn, consider what many say ‘sleep when the baby sleeps’. The tiredness and fatigue you experience can last for a prolonged period; hence it’s best to get as much sleep as you can. Getting shut-eye or even lying down if you find difficulty sleeping can offer you pockets of rest.
2. Begin a simple workout routine
While resting is one of the top priorities in postpartum recovery, it's also vital that you avoid spending most of your time lying down. During your routine examination, your doctor is likely to recommend some non-strenuous exercises that you can do to help your body recover.
When is it safe to start working out? Typically, you can start simple exercises within the first 24 hours of delivery, but it’s best to check with your doctor and ask for the green light. Exercises can range from brisk walking, yoga or cycling – any activities that allow you to break a sweat without over-exerting the body. Additionally, it’s best to keep the intensity moderate to condition your body gradually in this recovery stage.
3. Seek help from family
While postpartum may be a personal experience, you don’t need to be alone in the process. Other than blissful moments as a new mother, there could be times where you experience a rollercoaster of emotions – but rest assured that feeling overwhelmed or anxious is normal and does not speak of the type of new Mummy you are.
At these junctures, consider approaching your family members or friends to offload any difficult emotions you might be experiencing. Postpartum can be stressful, so it’s best to be kind to yourself and look for outlets to ease your load. Moreover, if you feel any forms of bodily pain, consider approaching household members for help in preparing meals or take shifts in caring for your little one.
4. Choose foods that offer nourishment
To allow your body to return to top shape, complement your physical rest and simple exercises with food that will nourish your recovering body. While different cultures might have their specific practices and beliefs, the general objective is to remove ‘wind’ from the body and promote blood circulation.
Specifically, Chinese practices recommend consuming specially brewed drinks or tonic soups packed with various herbs. During this critical period, it’s also important to consume fresh food, avoiding raw or overnight food. The first 7 days is especially crucial in offering new Mummies the best nutrients to kick-start a speedy recovery.
Conclusion
Here at Yue Zi Le Confinement Catering, we understand that the weeks after delivery can be challenging to navigate, as you welcome your adorable newborn and balance caring for them and yourself. That’s why we have specially curated confinement meal plans that go beyond the first week and extend up to 28 days! Each meal is individually prepared to ensure you receive the best nourishment – drop us a call at +65 8448 1177 today for Chinese confinement food delivery provided at your convenience.