Motherhood is often described as incredibly fulfilling, but it can also feel pretty lonely at times. New moms can easily get caught up in the never-ending routine of feeding, changing diapers, and dealing with sleepless nights, which doesn’t leave much time for taking care of themselves. Neha Dhupia, a Bollywood star and mom of two, highlights the significance of self-care and shares five key tips for new moms. In a chat with Health Shots, she pointed out that putting your own well-being first isn’t selfish; it’s actually a way to create a better balance between caring for your baby and yourself. If you’re a new mom or about to welcome a little one, Neha Dhupia’s self-care advice could really make a difference for you.

Neha Dhupia shares her self-care advice for new moms: What makes it so essential?

Taking care of a newborn can make it easy for moms to forget about their own needs. Dr. Swati Gaikwad, an obstetrician and gynecologist, emphasizes that carving out some "me time" is crucial for keeping your mental, emotional, and physical health in check. Moms often put their baby's needs first, which can lead to feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. However, prioritizing self-care can help them recharge, lower the chances of postpartum depression, and enhance their ability to care for their little one. Neha Dhupia also highlights the importance of mothers taking time for themselves, but many find it tough to do so. A study in the Midwifery Journal revealed that a lot of women believe that taking care of themselves is actually a sign of good parenting.

Self-care perks for new moms?

Taking care of yourself has a ton of perks for new moms, like boosting both physical and emotional health. When you make self-care a priority, it can really help you avoid burnout by giving you a chance to recharge, which means more energy and clearer thinking. Sticking to regular self-care habits, like working out and eating well, can aid in your recovery after giving birth and help you regain your strength and stamina. Plus, it might make you more present and patient with your little one, leading to a stronger bond between you two.

Neha Dhupia shares 5 self-care tips for new moms

Check out these five self-care tips from Neha Dhupia that every new mom should know:

1. Make sure to carve out some time just for you

New moms often struggle to carve out time for themselves. Once a baby arrives, all attention tends to go to the little one. Neha Dhupia highlights how crucial it is to make time for yourself to recharge. Through her own motherhood experience, she realized that self-care isn’t selfish; it’s vital for being a great mom. Taking time for yourself doesn’t have to mean hours of downtime; even a few minutes of quiet can make a difference. Neha suggests, “Make sure to take at least an hour for yourself each day.” According to Stanford Medicine Children's Health, new parents should also try to step outside for a few minutes daily to walk or get some exercise.

2. Get a good night's sleep

Sleep deprivation is something many new moms face, but Neha Dhupia emphasizes how crucial it is to catch some Z's whenever you can. "Aim for eight hours of sleep each day," she advises. While you might not always get those uninterrupted nights, finding ways to sneak in some rest can really boost your physical and emotional well-being. A study in the Sleep Research Society journal found that new moms actually sleep less in the first few weeks after giving birth compared to their pregnancy and other times in their reproductive years. One simple tip? Take a nap when your baby naps, even if it means putting some tasks on hold.

3. Make sure to drink plenty of water

Neha Dhupia encouraged new moms to pay attention to their hydration, as it plays a key role in maintaining good health during this period. Staying well-hydrated can boost your energy, improve skin health, and help with milk production for breastfeeding. Research in the journal Nutrients shows that not just plain water, but also water from foods, coffee, and milk can really help with hydration. A great tip is to always have a water bottle nearby, and adding natural flavors like lemon, mint, or cucumber can make drinking water a lot more fun.

4. Ditch gluten and sugar

Neha Dhupia's next piece of advice is to ditch gluten and sugar. Being mindful about what you eat can really boost your energy and improve your health overall. She shares her own journey, saying, "If you can, steer clear of gluten and sugar—it's something I did myself. Cutting these out can help you feel more balanced and in control."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, breastfeeding moms should aim for about 2,300 to 2,500 calories daily. Loading up on gluten-rich foods can lead to issues like bloating, fatigue, nausea, and gut problems, especially if you're gluten-sensitive. This can make it tougher for your body to heal after giving birth.

On the flip side, too much sugar can cause inflammation, mood swings, and energy dips, which can really slow down your recovery. "It can even make postpartum blues worse. Eating too much sugar can mess with your body’s ability to maintain a healthy weight and affect the quality of breast milk, so it's crucial to avoid gluten and sugar," the expert advises.

5. Time to hit the gym!

Staying active is super important for both your body and mind. Neha Dhupia suggests that new moms should find a workout that fits into their lives, whether that's yoga, a stroll, or some fun dancing. Getting your body moving can help ease stress, lift your confidence, and give you a chance to unwind. Neha says, “If you have to choose between the gym and a restaurant, pick the gym.” For busy moms, sneaking in some exercise during the day can really help. Things like stroller walks or baby yoga let you stay fit while spending quality time with your little one.

According to the International Journal of Qualitative Studies in Health and Well-being, an 8-week group postpartum exercise program showed great improvements in moms' mental and physical health. Dr. Swati Gaikwad points out, “Just a little bit of exercise each day can add joy and balance to your life as a mom.”

The feelings behind taking care of yourself

Taking care of your emotional health is just as crucial as looking after your physical well-being. Motherhood can be all-consuming, often leaving little room for personal care. Simple things like taking a break or indulging in a favorite hobby can help new moms feel more centered and capable. These moments allow them to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with their identity outside of being a caregiver.

A study in the journal Midwifery highlights that new moms' self-care needs in the early postpartum days go beyond just physical health; they also encompass emotional wellness. “Navigating these new responsibilities can really weigh on their emotional state, leading to issues like overthinking, stress, depression, and anxiety. Recognizing and validating these feelings can lighten their mental burden. It’s important to reach out for support from family, friends, or professionals,” the expert advises.

Neha Dhupia emphasizes the importance of carving out some personal time each day. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

What are some ways to begin prioritizing your self-care?

Your self-care routine does not have to be fancy or complicated. It can be started by making as small changes as adding manageable habits into your daily routine. Dr Gaikwad shares a few practical tips for self-care:

• Make sure to eat a well-rounded and nutritious diet. Load up on a variety of fruits, veggies, lean proteins, whole grains, legumes, lentils, nuts, and seeds. These foods are packed with essential nutrients that are super important for a smooth recovery and breastfeeding.
• Keep in touch with your family, friends, partner, or anyone close to you for emotional support and advice when you're feeling down.
• Managing your time is crucial for a stress-free life after giving birth. Try to stick to a schedule that balances your time between the baby, household chores, family, your partner, and some personal time, so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
• Don’t forget to take some time for yourself to unwind. Giving yourself a little “me time” after delivery can really boost your energy and lift your spirits. Simple pleasures like skincare, dressing up, enjoying a warm bath, or even a spa day can do wonders

These suggestions are definitely going to assist new moms in understanding that taking care of themselves is super important. By making a few small adjustments and focusing on self-care, you can boost your mood and fully enjoy the wonderful experience of being a parent.

Read Also: Gal Gadot Opens Up About Life-Threatening Blood Clot Diagnosed During Pregnancy

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