5 Ways to Find Time for Yourself with a New Baby

Inside: Feel like you have no time for basic self-care as a new mom? See our tips to find time for yourself to shower, eat and even sleep with a new baby.

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When my first child was born, I didn’t have time for ANYTHING. I mean that is how it truly felt.

My days were consumed with breastfeeding on demand, washing and folding onesies…and diaper change after diaper change. So finding time for everyday basic care (like showering and eating meals) was a luxury.

And forget about finding room for “me time.” That never occurred. I just couldn’t find a way to take care of myself as well.

If I wanted to do anything, it seemed as though I needed to wait until nap time arrived. Then, of course, I could get things done while baby rested. 

But this was my first mistake: Waiting for the perfect time. Because what I found was that there was no such thing.

Any experienced mom will tell you, the only way to get more time, is to make time.

You just have to be smart about how you’re doing it. Especially as a new mother.

Of course, it took MUCH trial and error, but I learned to make minor tweaks here and there in my schedule to help me actually get things done throughout the day.

Finding Time to Care for Yourself While Caring for Baby

Showering as a new mom

Okay, I admit it. When that first baby came along and it was time to shower, I always delayed the process when he cried. How could I dare leave my precious baby to cry alone in those moments?

But, here’s what I learned.

You can’t always wait for baby to finally fall asleep to take care of yourself. If you need to shower, take him in the bathroom with you! Break out the bouncy chair — I used this space-saving one that was perfect for small spaces and this popular brand.

If you don’t have one, that click and connect car seat you’ll be toting in and out of the house, will work just fine! Simply attach a few toys to the handle and you’re good to go with a calm baby and clean mama bear!

Eating as a new mom

Another mistake I made. Not nourishing my own body due to the timing. (This clearly is not good, especially if you’re nursing and recovering from delivery).

There’s really no need to starve yourself or wait for the perfect moment. It took me awhile, but I learned to work with one hand to grab whatever fruit or snacks I could, while baby held tight in the other.  This works well for fussy babies who are only happy when held.  And if you have a baby wrap or carrier, even better!

You can prepare meals in advance (when you do have the time) so they are ready to eat when you don’t have the time. Even if it’s a turkey sandwich with an apple or banana — mama’s good health is good for everyone!

RELATED: One Food Prep Secret I Wish I Knew Before Baby Arrived

Exercising as a new mom

Once you get clearance from your doctor (at the 6-8 week mark), light exercises can be a great way to relieve stress and start getting your pre-baby body back.

But how do you even find the time?

The answer may surprise you: Exercise with baby! Yeah that’s right, forget trying to wait until your spouse is home or a sitter becomes available. Lay your baby down in front of you and begin with simple stretches and yoga poses. Then lift your baby up, rocking them gently to work on your upper body strength.

And once baby gains full head control, mommy and me yoga or basic aerobics classes are perfect. Baby makes a great weight for muscle toning or strength training too :)!

RELATED: Mommy & Me Yoga for New Moms

Time for household chores or errands

This is where baby-wearing becomes a life-saver! When your hands are free, and baby is securely attached to you, you have the ability to do whatever you need to do around the house without feeling guilty or overwhelmed.

I was given a couple baby carriers with my first son, but never used them much. I figured I could manage without them…and then I simply forgot about them.

But what a difference it makes when you are able to multitask with baby by your side!

Finding time for mommy’s “me” time

You obviously want to bond with your new baby as much as you can, but you will also need time for yourself to keep your sanity.  After stimulating baby’s senses with simple play activities, remember that there will also be times when independent play time will be essential for his continued development. Lay him on a gym mat, give him a few toys and teethers (here’s a simple tummy-time activity we love!) and watch from the other end of the room.  This will keep your worries at bay, but still leave time for you to catch up with the things going on in the world (even if it is online).

Enjoy every minute with your new baby, but learn to make time throughout the day to keep your sanity…even if your baby isn’t asleep!