Rest...

When your doula says for you to rest when your baby sleeps this should not be negotiable if you want to work toward preventing being totally exhausted! All of the time!

• Resist the feeling that you must take this time to "get things done around the house". We live in a world that is fast paced and the idea of slowing down can be scary to most people, but this is a time when you need to slow down to avoid feeling drained, low, and developing a negative temperament.

• Ask for help. Please reach out to your village during this time. It may be hard, but it is necessary.

• Breathe. Incorporate breath exercises into your day to help reset and refresh. A quick 5 mins can go a long way.

• Move your body! I know, you're like, "I don't have the energy", But exercise gives you more energy and helps with the feeling of being tired. Try it!

• Learn your babies sleep patterns and research ways to help your newborn sleep.

• Pay attention to your overall mental health. If you cannot sleep no matter what, feel sad, angry or and hopeless. If you believe you may be depressed. Contact your doctor as soon as possible because you may be experiencing postpartum depression also called baby blues. EBB 83 - Why Families Need Postpartum Care - Evidence Based Birth®

• If you are in a crises situation and need to speak to someone, immediately call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255).

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