Becoming a mum is like stepping into a whole new world you didn’t even know existed. With all the new responsibilities and intense maternal emotions, it’s easy to let your needs slide. But here’s the truth that’s not talked about enough: taking care of yourself is actually a key part of being a great mum. You can’t fully care for your baby if you’re running on empty. So, in this post, we’re sharing ten practical and essential tips for self-care that every new mum needs to know. 

1. Set Realistic Goals 

It’s easy to get caught up in social media’s portrayal of bouncing back to pre-pregnancy weight or handling everything perfectly like a supermum. Instead, focus on setting realistic, achievable goals that fit your life without stretching yourself too thin. Remember, your time, energy and patience are limited — and mum aside, you are also human. A good place to start would be to break down household chores into small, manageable tasks that you can tackle each day, and share baby duties with your partner to keep things balanced.

2. Engage in Light Exercise

Exercise doesn’t have to be an hour-long cardio session or an intense spin class to count. Gentle activities like a neighbourhood walk or light stretching at home can be surprisingly beneficial. They help release endorphins and serotonin — those feel-good chemicals that boost your mood and combat anxiety and depression. Plus, they reduce fatigue and keep you in tip-top shape. Let’s not forget the wonders of fresh air as well, invigorating you and giving you the energy you need to tackle the day ahead!

3. Sleep When the Baby Sleeps

Catching up on sleep can be a real challenge with a new baby keeping you up at night. That’s why it’s so important to grab any chance you can get, like when your little one is napping peacefully in the middle of the day. Even if you can’t manage a full nap, a little shuteye goes a long way. Try to sync your sleep with your baby’s schedule and establish a bedtime routine that works for both of you. And don’t hesitate to accept help from family, friends, or a nanny — sometimes, a few extra hours of sleep are just what you need to recharge.

4. Treat Yourself to a Postnatal Massage

While you’re giving your newborn a massage, why not treat yourself to one too? The same soothing techniques that improve your baby’s circulation and help them sleep better can benefit you as well. A massage can lower your stress levels and even help speed up your recovery, making it a win-win for both of you.

5. Schedule ‘Me Time’

Jot this down: among all the things you need to make time for, carving out a small, consistent period each day just for yourself is crucial! Think of this time as a precious opportunity to connect with yourself and focus on your mental well-being. Whether it’s diving into a favourite novel, catching up with friends, or soaking in a relaxing bath, be kind to yourself and recognise that these moments of self-care are as important as any other need in your life. They require intention, and should be a priority.

6. Prioritise Your Comfort

The small things matter. From sleeping and recovering from childbirth to breastfeeding, your body needs time to heal, and comfort plays an integral role in managing pain and fatigue — especially during the delicate and emotionally challenging postpartum period. Think about how you could put your comfort first, such as proper positioning during nursing, support to handle nighttime awakenings, and a soft and quiet environment during feeding sessions. Prioritising comfort can help you cope with the strain of daily tasks that can otherwise pile up, making the overall transition to motherhood smoother and more enjoyable.

7. Practise Mindfulness 

You’ve probably heard the term “mindfulness” thrown around a lot, but what does it actually mean? At its core, mindfulness is about being aware of your thoughts and feelings in the present moment. Practising mindfulness can help manage stress and encourage relaxation. For mums, exploring techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can be particularly beneficial in creating the calm and balance deserved during this physically and emotionally taxing time. 

8. Stick to a Balanced Diet and Stay Hydrated

It might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many mums (and parents in general) end up neglecting their nutrition once parenthood sweeps in. A nourishing diet is essential, especially for mums who need to fuel milk production for breastfeeding while juggling daily parental responsibilities. Furthermore, a healthy diet can help us feel happier and feel more energised. Staying hydrated is equally important because breast milk is more than 80% water. So, make sure to keep up with both eating well and drinking enough fluids to support you and your child — even if you think you’ve got no time for it!

9. Be Easy on Yourself

Parenting is undeniably one of the toughest challenges you’ll ever face. Be gentle with yourself, even through the highs and lows, and remember that it’s okay not to be okay. Self-care isn’t about achieving perfection, so struggling with it is completely normal. Don’t be hard on yourself and recognise that it’s all part of the journey. 

10. Accept Help from Others

As a new mum, you’re not expected to do everything on your own. After all, it truly takes a village to raise a child. When family and friends offer to help, embrace it — it doesn’t make you weak but shows strength in recognising your needs. Whether it’s accepting a dinner delivery or sneaking in some rest while someone supervises the baby, self-care becomes much more manageable with backup by your side. Professionals like confinement nannies and babysitters can also help to distribute the pressure.

At Mothercare Malaysia, we’re here to assist new parents with insightful guidance and innovative products. Our Digital Nursery Advisors can help you make informed decisions and find the best solutions for your and your baby’s unique needs. Reach out to them or visit our experience stores at Suria KLCC and Mid Valley Megamall to explore how we can serve you — as we have been doing with hundreds of parents for the past 50 years.