Hi Lucy. Congratulations on the birth of your bub. It’s such an exciting time! Yet I remember it being a little overwhelming too! Oh for that manual these bubs don’t come with ‼!
Those days and months after we bring our baby home can be very tiring indeed! Lack of sleep certainly impinges on energy levels and can flow into all areas of our life. So firstly, it’s all normal! That said, there are a few things that you can do to support your energy levels. The following will hopefully provide you with a few specific things to focus on..
1/ Sleep - when you can – I was told “sleep when your baby sleeps”… but then my baby decided not to do much of that either‼ Even so, rest whenever you can. Give yourself permission…
2/ Hydration – whenever you wake, make a promise to yourself to have a glass of water. Just tepid filtered water and even better with some fresh lemon juice. Then sip throughout your day leaving a window of half an hour before and ¾ hr after each meal to optimise digestion. Elevating hydration is a very easy way of elevating energy!
3/ You matter - take time out just for you. Self care is not indulgent. It’s necessary to be your best. It can be little things, like enjoying a cuppa in a quiet corner of the house or garden, grabbing some sunshine, going for a walk, doing a few stretches or some gentle yoga, even enjoying a bath with some magnesium flakes and lavender. It’s a form of rest. And you deserve some tending too! You’re doing great!
4/ Nutrition - To optimise the energy your body has to draw from your nutrition, focus on meals of vegetables, fruit, some protein, seeds and nuts. With a “prep chop” once or twice a week, you can peel, chop and store a selection of vegetables ready for an easy meal-prep. Think stir fries, salads, stews, slow cooking etc. (And if any friend offers to cook, accept!) Whilst you’re feeling so tired it’s very easy to turn to sugary items and carbs for quick pick me ups. My clients get the very best results at these times by avoiding processed foods and sugars and replacing quick fixes with things like smoothies of veg and fruit, fruit & nut butters, even a square or two of dark chocolate can lift energy and give you an endorphin mood-boost.
5/ Exercise – whilst it feels like it’s even more of a struggle when you’re so very tired, regular, gentle exercise actually helps with energy levels. It’s worth finding a 20 minute yoga session online, going for a walk – especially in the sun – or whatever it is that you enjoy and makes you feel good in terms of movement and exercise. If possible make this a part of a morning routine.. you will feel better. You can also integrate your bub into your exercise routine – I remember mine loved it. I did push ups and kissed her little button nose with every dip, lifted her over my head to strengthen my arms, did squats holding her and sit ups with her on my knee. Start slow and make it fun. You forget you’re “exercising”… Morning movement will help with sustained energy levels.
Most of all Lucy, be kind with and to you. These are most precious of times and they go so very fast‼! Enjoy and remember you are doing great‼!
I hope this has helped and please do send any further questions.
Simone x
Health & Vitality Coach
https://www.ukhealthcoaches.com/health- ... ne-gilbert