Breastfeeding is an around-the-clock job, so much so that it can become the single most thing you think about - even to the neglect of your own health. However, it's vital to keep your health a priority to ensure you enjoy this experience to the utmost.

Mothers often have to shoulder a significant responsibility when it comes to the care and well-being of their families. But this can be challenging to do if moms aren't whole emotionally and physically, which can lead to parenting that isn't beneficial for the parent or child. Here at Conscious Coconut, we want to teach you the self-empowerment tools to be able to lead the way in guilt-free, cognitive parenting. Here are a few.

Eat Well-Balanced Meals

As a breastfeeding mom, your body will lose vital nutrients that will go to your baby instead, which is why it is important to replenish these essential vitamins and minerals so your body remains healthy. Of course, you'll want to abide by your doctor's rules. However, you can find recipes and meal plans designed especially for moms who are still in the breastfeeding phase.

 You may also find it helpful to work with a nutritionist to ensure you are eating the right things for your body and to support your baby through breastfeeding. This healthcare service is covered by many insurance policies. If you do not have health insurance, look into other options. If joining a parent’s or spouse’s policy isn’t an option, look for your state’s Affordable Care Act programs for discounted rates. It’s vital that you and your baby get the medical support you need during this important time.

Ensure You are Comfortable at all Times

Breastfeeding offers a unique opportunity to bond with your baby in this special phase of life, explains the Cleveland Clinic. But it can also be trying if you are experiencing discomfort and challenges associated with getting your baby to latch. This is part of the reason why you need a space in which you can feel comfortable. Adding calming elements to the area, such as soft music, soft lighting, and fresh air wafting through the room, might help you feel calmer and less anxious about the experience overall.

Explore Products that Support Breastfeeding Moms

 It is always helpful to have essentials on hand to help moms navigate this new period more easily. Our top picks for new nursing moms include:

• A breastfeeding pillow is helpful in enabling mom and baby to get into a comfortable position from the start.
• Organic Coconut Oil is a mama's go-to for baby eczema, cradle cap, diaper rashes, infant massage, toothpaste, digestion and acne. And coconut oil is great for pregnant and nursing moms, too. Nipple cream, stretch marks, perineal massage and increased milk production to name a few of our favorite uses.
• Comfortable undergarments to help facilitate the breastfeeding process. A relaxed but supportive nursing bra should do the trick.
• Clothes that are designed to make breastfeeding easier are also available for women to wear when out and about.
• The Champa Tree notes that breast pumps also come in extremely handy if you foresee yourself not being there to feed your child on demand.
• Comfortable slippers for your feet as you walk around your home nursing and rocking your baby to sleep.

Adopting Healthier Habits Overall

Having a baby changes your body in many ways, so much so that many women struggle to feel like themselves. Adopting healthier habits can help you to feel more comfortable in your own skin, which can also make it easier to feel comfortable in your new role as a mom.

First, care for your mental health. Many women experience postpartum depression. If you find yourself feeling depressed or questioning your choice to have a child, seek help from a professional. These feelings are common and they will pass with time and treatment.

Then, care for your body by regaining normal activities. Staying in the house 24/7 can take a real toll on your mental and physical health. Slowly bring yourself back into activities that you love, whether it’s having a coffee date with friends, attending a club or church service, or jogging through the park.

If you live in a walkable neighborhood, take a stroll with your little one. You’ll discover it not only helps you feel better, it can help you shed your pregnancy weight. Topping things off, you may find that the gentle movement of walking helps your baby to fall asleep – and gives you some much needed peace and quiet.

Find a Healthy Balance

Most new moms will say that caring for a newborn goes by fast, but that doesn’t mean that the path is easy. You will do your best to provide your child with a good and healthy foundation at the very beginning to ensure they grow and are able to meet their most important milestones. But don’t neglect your own needs during this time or you will come to regret it or even resent the addition of your new little one. It’s best to find the balance – and support – that you need so that you can love yourself and your baby together.

Image via Pexels

Contributed by Emily Graham at https://mightymoms.net/

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