How to Create a Calm and Restorative Postpartum Routine
Feeling a bit overwhelmed lately? Trying to figure out how to balance caring for your new baby while also taking care of yourself? It’s hard, I know. The postpartum period can feel chaotic, like you’re constantly trying to catch up but never quite getting there. But what if I told you that creating a calm and restorative routine is possible, even when life feels upside down? Hang with me, because I’m going to show you how.
What You Will Learn in This Blog Post:
Simple strategies to build a calming postpartum routine that works for YOU.
How to integrate small moments of self-care into your busy day.
Practical tips to help you reduce stress and feel more balanced.
Why prioritizing yourself benefits both you and your baby.
Why Does It Feel So Hard to Find Calm?
Life with a newborn can feel like one long blur of feedings, diaper changes, and sleepless nights. It’s easy to get lost in the shuffle, feeling like your needs come last. But here’s the thing: you matter too. And when you take care of yourself, even in small ways, you’re better able to take care of your baby. Creating a postpartum routine that prioritizes calm and restoration doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about finding what works for you and weaving it into the flow of your day.
Start Small with Moments of Calm
Thinking about 'routine' sounds impossible when every day looks different. But the key is starting small. You don’t need hours of alone time to feel restored—you just need intentional pockets of calm throughout the day.
Here’s what you can do:
Breathe: I mean this literally. Take 1-2 minutes when your baby is napping or playing to focus on deep, slow breaths. This simple practice can reset your mind and body, helping you to feel more grounded.
Move: You don’t need a full workout to feel the benefits of movement. A short walk outside, a few stretches, or even gentle yoga can help release tension and clear your head.
Create a calming space: Dedicate a small corner of your home to be your ‘calm zone.’ This could be a cozy chair with a blanket, a few candles, or a spot with a view. When you need a moment to yourself, go there. Let it be your refuge, even if just for a few minutes.
Prioritize Rest and Sleep
You’ve heard it before—“Sleep when the baby sleeps.” But what if that feels impossible because there are always other things to do? Here’s my honest take: it’s not about sleeping every time your baby sleeps; it’s about finding moments to rest and recharge when you can. That could mean a 10-minute power nap, lying down to read, or simply closing your eyes and letting your body relax. Rest doesn’t always mean sleep, but it does mean giving your body and mind a break.
Try this:
Set a boundary with yourself. Give yourself permission to rest before jumping into tasks like laundry or dishes.
Use supportive tools. A white noise machine, an eye mask, or a weighted blanket can help create a restful environment, even in short bursts.
Lean on your support system. Ask your partner or a family member to watch the baby for 20 minutes so you can step away and recharge.
Make Time for What Restores YOU
What fills your cup? Is it reading, journaling, listening to music, or taking a bath? Whatever it is, make time for that. It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that you should be 'doing more,' but your well-being matters. When you feel restored, you’ll be more present and calm with your baby.
Here’s a practical tip: Schedule these activities. I know it sounds strange to schedule relaxation, but putting it on your calendar or setting a reminder can make a big difference. Even just 15 minutes a day dedicated to something that nourishes you is a game changer.
Why It Matters
By creating a calm and restorative postpartum routine, you’re not only caring for yourself—you’re also modeling self-care for your baby. When you prioritize your well-being, you’re teaching your little one that taking care of yourself is important, no matter how busy life gets. It’s not selfish; it’s essential. And trust me, you’re worth it.
Let’s Recap
You don’t need a perfect plan or endless free time to create a calm postpartum routine. Start small with moments of calm, prioritize rest (even when it feels impossible), and make time for what restores you. This journey is about progress, not perfection. You are more than capable of making this happen.
Your next step: Pick one tip from this blog and try it today. And if you need a little extra support to figure out what works for you, download my free guide, "5 Ways to Avoid Losing Yourself Postpartum." Trust me, you deserve this time for yourself. You’re not alone, mama—you’ve got this!
Now that you have a few ideas to get started, take that first step today. A calm and restorative postpartum routine is within your reach, and it’s something that will benefit both you and your baby. Remember: small changes add up. You are capable, and you deserve this care.
Thanks so much for reading the blog!
And hey, if you want more tips, support, and a good dose of motivation, subscribe to my weekly emails. Let’s navigate this motherhood journey together, one step at a time.
Before you leave, make sure to download your free guide!
featured blogs
Let’s talk about something that’s probably been swirling in your mind as you prepare for life with a new baby: your identity. Yep, the person you’ve always been, the one you’ve worked so hard to shape, and the one you fear might get a little lost in the shuffle of diaper changes, feedings, and sleepless nights.