Being a new mom can be such an exciting adventure. But it can also be a lonely time of late nights and limited freedom. Your mental and physical health during this postpartum period are just as important as when you were pregnant. You need to take good care of yourself so you can care for your baby.
Despite the benefits of self-care for new moms, taking time away from your baby to focus on yourself can feel wrong. For now, you can still do plenty of things that don’t require time away from your little one. Leaving the house for simple errands or just walking around the block would be a great start.
Getting out of the house is one of the best things you can do for your mental and physical health, whether you’re alone, with loved ones, or just your new little family. Here are some of the benefits and reasons you should make it a priority, and some simple ideas for regular outings.
Helps Beat the Baby Blues
Most postpartum moms will experience some level of baby blues as their hormones stabilize and they adjust to their new life. It’s normal to feel stuck during this time since your baby relies on you for everything. Getting out of the house can give you a bit of a reprieve from your home and help you eliminate any stir-crazy feelings. The fresh air will work wonders.
Decreases Loneliness
Even if you don’t meet up with anyone, being in public areas around other people where you can see other people can help banish feelings of loneliness. You can sit and sip a cup of tea and people-watch for a while.
Encourages Self-Care
When you leave your house, odds are good you’re going to put yourself together a bit more than if you were staying in. You could take this as an opportunity to get a shower, throw your hair up, put on your cutest joggers, and slap on a little mascara. The process will make you feel a bit more human again.
Returns a Sense of Normalcy
Getting out of the house every so often can help you have some sense of the life you had before. Having a new baby changes things, but it doesn’t mean you must ditch your old patterns entirely. Hanging out with loved ones and perhaps doing a little shopping can provide some much-needed balance to your current situation.
Connects With the Support System
Having a good support system is essential for any new mom. Yours could include your family, friends, and other moms you meet along the way. Go hang out with them or attend mom group meetings rather than feeling like you need to host people at your house.
Provides Movement Opportunities
Movement is one of the best things for you right now. It can lower your chance of postpartum complications and improve your mood. Just take it easy for a while by going for slow walks until your doctor clears you.
It’s Fun!
Remember when you used to do things just for fun? That doesn’t have to stop now just because you’re a new mom. Get out for no other reason than to take care of yourself by having fun. Spend time on a hobby or catching a movie. Just enjoy!
Perfect Outing Ideas for New Moms
Now that we've convinced you, keep reading for some fun and totally manageable ideas for outings you can take a as a new mom, from simple trips out to soak up some Vitamin D, to mini-vacations.
Park or Playground
Local parks or playgrounds are great places to go with your baby to get out of the house for a while. It costs nothing to go there, and you get some physical activity and sunshine. Your baby may not be old enough to enjoy the perks of a playground, but while you’re there, you might see other new moms you could connect with.
Weekend Getaway
If you and your baby are feeling up for it, going on a vacation with family is a proven way to reduce stress. Even just an afternoon at a nearby beach or state park can give you a much needed break from daily stresses. You’ll come home feeling refreshed, and you’ll have made family memories you’ll cherish for years to come.
Mom Group
Speaking of other moms, joining a mothers' group gets you out of the house and expands your support network. Most groups are for moms and their babies, so you don’t have to leave your precious baby to enjoy the perks of attendance.
Health Care
You wouldn’t miss any of your baby’s well-child check-ups or ignore the symptoms of a possible problem your little one might have. You shouldn’t neglect your own, either. Attend any scheduled postpartum appointments with your family doctor and OB.
Also, keep an eye out for any symptoms of postpartum depression or other pregnancy-related complications. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your doctor, OB, or therapist right away.
Hang Out With Friends
Staying home with your baby those first several weeks after giving birth can feel very isolating, but having a newborn doesn’t have to spell the end of your friendships. Call a gal pal and make a date to go out for coffee or grab a bite.
Even if you only get away for an hour, do something with your friends that makes you feel like yourself again. Your spouse or parents will enjoy getting some alone time with the baby while you’re out.
Dinner With Family
Your family might be your strongest support during your postpartum period. They’re likely already helping you out and bringing you meals. Once you feel well enough, why not ask if you could have a meal at their house instead? It will give you an excuse to leave the house, and your family can make special memories with you and the baby. Plus, you get a meal with no dirty dishes to think about.
Retail Therapy
A little retail therapy may be just what the doctor ordered. New babies are expensive, so you don’t have to go wild, but a new comfy outfit or two might help you feel better in your postpartum body. Remember, buy the size you are now, not the one you hope to be later.
Simple Outings Can Have a Big Impact
The best news is that you don’t need to spend any money to reap the benefits of getting out of the house. A simple stroll around the block can make a world of difference to your mood and outlook. Getting a cup of tea with friends or joining a new mom group will help you connect with your support system.
Feel free to take your baby with you on these outings, especially in the beginning. But as you move through your postpartum phase, it’s also essential to get some time to yourself. See if baby can spend an hour or two with their dad, grandparents, or one of your friends.
*Disclaimer: The advice on CafeMom.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
