Hey Mommy, first things first, congratulations! You have done it!
Being a mother is a special, out-of-the-world experience and a heavenly experience. But besides all these, the long nights can get on your nerves. The constant wanting to feed, changing diapers, ensuring they are breathing properly, etc., can take you to sleep away. If you are feeling fatigued, depressed, and getting constant flashes of the baby disguising as a monster, yay, this is motherhood. However, here are a few tips to help you get enough sleep.
1. Sleep With Your Baby
It might seem that your baby can not stand you sleeping peacefully, which is better known to them. But maintaining a normal sleep cycle that you were habituated to might be keeping you awake.
Sleep during the time your baby is napping. A newborn is supposed to sleep for 16 to 18 hours, and you have to steal your 8 hours from this time.
2. Household Chores Can Wait
Moms, do not get paranoid if your house is a total mess. Stressing yourself over cleaning the dishes, vacuuming, or doing laundry will make things worse. These things can wait. All you need is adequate rest so that you can attend to your baby.
People who have undergone this journey will understand your pressure.
3. Ask For Help
Living close to your family or friends or having a close connection with your neighbors? Then dear Mommy, ask for help. You are not a superwoman; night is your man, not a superman. Days might come when you are on the verge of utter shatters, not getting the tiniest clue on what to do.
You have another option of hiring a housekeeper. You can talk to an agency and hire one that suits you best.
4. Avoid Co-Sleeping
If you are sleeping with your baby in bed, there is no way you will be getting enough sleep at night. Invest in a baby crib. Letting the baby sleep with you can also be dangerous to the baby. They might get under the blanket, unable to breathe, or any other accident might come your way.
However, let your baby rest in the crib while you can sleep without any obligation in your bed.
5. Pull The Crib Near
While putting the baby in the crib, ensure that you keep the crib near your bed. There might come multiple times when you will need to check on the baby. Every time getting up from bed to do it might hamper your sleep.
When you can have a crib placed near your bed, you can do it without having to get up.
6. Share Duties
Some babies through extreme fits at night. So instead of sleeping together with your husband, sleep in different rooms. You can switch duties every alternate night. There is no meaning in hampering the sleep of both parents. Sharing during every alternate night will ensure you have a night of adequate sleep.
Dear new moms, navigating the challenges of sleep deprivation is undoubtedly daunting, but remember, you’re not alone in this journey. As you embrace the joys and struggles of motherhood, prioritizing your own well-being is paramount. Ensuring both you and your little one get the rest you need is crucial for a healthy and happy family dynamic.
Remember to stay warm and comfortable during those winter nights, especially as you tend to your baby’s needs. For further guidance on staying cozy during pregnancy, explore our article on Winter Essentials for New Moms. With patience, self-compassion, and the support of loved ones, you’ll find your rhythm and thrive amidst the exhaustion. You’ve got this, mama!