Nothing changes your life like becoming a parent! In that first precious year, life becomes a blur of joy, exhaustion and nappy changes. There is no one-size-fits or perfect rule book to getting it right, though there are tried and tested tips that can help make life a little easier. Especially when it comes to bedtime tips!
This is a collaborative post
Let’s take a look at how you can prioritise rest to make sure both you and your little one get enough to stay happy and healthy.
- Perfect your sleeping space
With the non-stop responsibility that being a parent brings, it’s easy to let self-care and healthy sleeping habits go out of the window. While it may be impossible to stick to the recommended eight hours a night, what you can do is make every wink count. Make sure you have everything you need to truly optimise every moment of rest. Top of the list for the perfect sleeping space is a good pillow. For ultimate comfort and support with just the right head-hugging softness, you can’t go wrong with a hybrid bamboo pillow. The smooth, hypoallergenic cover also gently protects skin while you rest whether it’s for a quick afternoon nap or a few precious hours in bed. Make sure you take every opportunity to enjoy some quality shut-eye to recharge and energise. It will make playtime all the more fun!
- Have ‘bedtime’ props at hand
Preparation is key, so they say. And that certainly rings true when it comes to parenting. Having everything you need at hand when it comes to bedtime will make getting your little one to drift off a whole lot easier. From soothing music, and warm baths to soft baby muslins. Experiment and see what helps the best calm your baby’s nervous system and relax them enough to fall asleep. Naturally, hypoallergenic bamboo baby muslins make the perfect comforters and can be used to swaddle your little one off to sleep. The snug, safe feeling reminds them of being in the womb which can settle and ease them into sleep (before you finish that bedtime story) Every baby is different, being patient is key to finding what works for your little one and then it’s all about keeping consistent.
- Set a routine (and stick to it)
If there is one secret to getting more sleep as a new parent, it’s finding a routine that works and sticking to it. Your baby will be taking in the difference between night and day, which can take time. Keeping the same bedtime and wake times will help them to adjust and settle. Learning when their energy naturally dips during the day can help you to set nap times. These are also best kept consistent and provide the perfect opportunity for a tea break and putting your feet up. Every new parent’s routine will look different, the key is to find what works for you and is sustainable. From feeding time to playtime, having a routine will carve some clear structure to your day and help you make the most of every precious moment.
- Fill up on the good stuff
While you may not have much control over your sleep as a new parent, one thing you can control is the fridge! Make sure you fill up on plenty of fresh fruit and veg which are packed with the nutrients you need to stay energised and healthy. Remember too much coffee (as much as you need it) can interfere with your body’s natural circadian rhythm which can make it harder to fall asleep. Sugary drinks and processed food, tempting as it is to reach for, will leave you feeling depleted, and sluggish and even lower your mood. Keep the cupboards stacked with plenty of complex carbs like oats and whole grains and make sure you get enough protein like chicken, eggs or yoghurt. The better you eat, the better you’ll feel and the better you’ll parent!
The Take-Away
Pat yourself on the back! Parenting has to be one of the hardest jobs in the world, and not getting enough sleep can make it feel so much harder. Remember, you are not alone. Reaching out to friends, family and support groups can make a big difference to your mental health as you find your flow. Above all, take care of yourself and try to prioritise rest.
These simple tips will help you feel at your best and capture every smile!
How did I do?
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