Self Care in the Postpartum Trenches
Your postpartum period can be relaxing and luxurious. Yes, it’s possible.
We all know the fourth trimester is a time of immense change and adjustment. For that reason alone, it is so important to prioritize self-care. And I’m not talking about getting 15 minutes to take a shower or running to a dentist appointment. I’m talking about infusing true luxury and indulgence into your every day routine after baby arrives. This is something I made a point to incorporate in little and big ways throughout my postpartum experience. I have no doubt that decision promoted more healing and made my recovery time a bit more enjoyable. I felt more centered, taken care of, and like myself for brief moments. Here are a few ideas that helped me:
Before baby arrives, create a calming atmosphere in your home (or a corner of it)
Create a “me time” basket that you can pull from. Bonus points if you set it up in a relaxing corner of your home. Fill that basket with items you love and find yourself returning to when you want to indulge—your favorite candle, a silk lavender eye pillow, chocolates, a rich hand cream, your weekly face mask (or full skincare routine).
Invest in loungewear that you love
Set aside or purchase new loungewear that makes you feel beautiful and cozy. While the throes of postpartum recovery can make you very much not want to wear your favorite lounge clothes, try to do it for yourself. Take a moment to take a steamy shower (bonus points if you add aromatherapy), throw a face mask on, and get changed into a luxurious set of PJs—even if you do it for an hour.
Treat yourself to something special once a week
This may be the most challenging part of this entire list. This is the piece that will often fall to the wayside if you let it. Even if it’s for 30 minutes, please make a point to do something for yourself that actually fills your bucket. This could be a postpartum massage service, a trip to your favorite shop with a friend, even a nap. This is where you lean on your village.
Identify and prioritize things that bring you comfort
Start thinking now about what makes you feel calm and at peace. Is it a clean living room that smells faintly of Aesop? A great cup of coffee? A pedicure? If you’re like me, it’s all of the above. Once you’ve determined what you want to prioritize during the fourth trimester, the next step is figuring out how to make it happen. It could require assistance from others, or maybe a little pre-planning. Make that pedicure appointment, ensure you’re stocked up on espresso beans, and task someone with meticulously cleaning that living room.
Engage in gentle exercise
Join a postpartum yoga class that focuses on gentle, restorative movements. Hire a personal trainer who specializes in postpartum fitness to guide you through safe, effective exercises. Incorporate activities like stretching and meditation to relax and rejuvenate your body.
Etter provides indulgent, luxury services that elevate the postpartum experience. From postnatal massage to private yoga instruction, we help craft a schedule that prioritizes what you care about and what makes you feel taken care of.