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Being a new mom brings immeasurable joy and promise for most, but it also brings sleepless nights, sore bodies, and oftentimes feelings of discontent. The convergence of these extreme opposite emotions can be confusing and difficult to cope with. A baby changes life in so many wonderful ways, but also in some less wonderful ways as well. It is vital that new moms develop ways to help adjust and embrace this new life. One way to do this, is to make sure that in the excitement and flurry of a new baby, your own self-identity is not lost. New moms and babies should get out of the house and socialize and interact with others. This is easier said than done between the logistics of getting a new little life out of the house with extra equipment and lack of motivation due to physical fatigue and mental exhaustion. Luckily, there are some fun and creative ideas to get mom and baby out of the house and having fun!
Make a Mom Friend
Whether you plan to stay home long term or for a short maternity leave, you will need a friend who is also a mother. If you don’t already have a friend in the “new mom club”, find one. There is something comforting about having someone you can exchange unlimited cute baby stories with, and commiserate over poopy diapers and dirty burp rags. These friends will understand the challenges of getting out of the house, but also sense the importance. The two of you can lift each other up when one is having a rough day, watch each other’s babies while the other showers, and encourage each other to go out on little field trips.
Take Walks
Start small and simple and simply take a walk. Babies come with a lot of equipment, and it can be cumbersome and stressful to remember it all. Pack a small bag with a few essentials, and just get outside. You don’t have to venture far from home, so if baby cries or you forget something, it’s not the end of the world. As your comfort level grows, your radius of venturing will too. It won’t be long before you find yourself cruising around shopping centers and stopping at a coffee shop for a snack.
Try out Some Baby and Me Classes
Whether you opt for baby gym, mommy and me yoga, library story time, music, or infant swim lessons, check out a local baby class. Many offer free trials so you can try a few and determine which you find most enjoyable. These enrichment sensory experiences are good for your baby and oftentimes even better for you. It gives you a fun and structured way to interact with baby, and meet other parents. It also provides motivation to get ready and get out of the house without the pressure of getting dressed up too much.
Plan a Night out
Plan a mom’s night out, date night, lunch with a friend, or just schedule a manicure and hair cut for yourself. Get a family member or trusted friend to watch the baby for a couple hours and enjoy some adult time alone. A new baby consumes so much of a new mom’s time, energy, and thoughts. It is ok, healthy even, to take a bit of time for yourself. Think of something you enjoy doing without the baby and make it happen at least once in a while.
Being a new mom comes with so many different emotions, obligations, experiences, and joys. Balance in this hectic time is absolutely key. Plan small and simple outings that seem reasonable and attainable. Choose things you find enjoyable and get out there and enjoy them with your new little one!