Hi there, I’m Jessica Esplin and I’m a traveling newborn portrait photographer serving Utah and Salt Lake counties. I have committed myself to simplifying the lives of my clients, which is exactly why I offer in-home portrait sessions for their baby’s first photoshoot. As a mother of four and someone who has experienced postpartum anxiety (PPA) and postpartum depression (PPD), I deeply understand the importance of embracing simplicity and prioritizing self-care during the postpartum period. In this guest post, I aim to emphasize the significance of incorporating simple self-care practices that support both physical and emotional well-being. Whether you’re embarking on the journey of new motherhood or supporting a loved one through this transformative time, embracing simplicity and integrating self-care into daily life can have a profound impact on overall wellness and happiness.
Embracing Self-Care: A Path to Healing
The postpartum period is a time of profound change, both physically and emotionally. It’s essential to recognize and honor the journey of recovery, allowing yourself the time and space to heal as much as possible. Self-care plays a pivotal role in this process, offering a nurturing foundation for physical restoration and emotional resilience. In my own life I have found that self-care helped me cope with the stresses I was experiencing in my new motherhood journey. That is why I advocate so strongly for the well-being of my clients. I always make sure I check in with my new parents, especially the birthing parent to see how they are recovering, both physically and emotionally.
Incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple actions can make a significant difference in how you feel during the postpartum period.
Here are some practical ideas to consider:
Mindfulness Exercises: Take a few moments each day to practice mindfulness, whether through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply being present in the moment. Mindfulness can help reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and promote emotional balance.
Gentle Movement: Engage in gentle movement practices that nourish your body and promote healing. This could include prenatal yoga, walking, or gentle stretching exercises tailored to your postpartum needs. Listen to your body and honor its cues as you gradually reintroduce physical activity. Make sure to check with your doctor to ensure your body is ready for physical activity.
Relaxation Techniques: Carve out time, even just a few minutes, for relaxation and rejuvenation, even amidst the demands of caring for a newborn. Whether it’s enjoying a warm bath, reading a book, or listening to calming music, find activities that help you unwind and recharge. You can check out my blog posts on self care on my website for more ideas.
Prioritize Rest: Recognize the importance of restorative rest in the postpartum period. Aim to nap when your baby sleeps, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from loved ones to ensure you have time for adequate rest. It really does take a village.
Seek Support: Speaking about your village, please don’t hesitate to reach out for support from friends, family, or healthcare professionals. Surround yourself with a supportive network of individuals who can offer encouragement, assistance, and understanding during this transitional time.
Honoring Your Journey
As you navigate the journey of postpartum recovery, remember that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity. You can’t pour water from an empty cup. By prioritizing your well-being and incorporating self-care practices into your daily life, you can support your physical and emotional health, ultimately fostering a deeper sense of resilience and empowerment.
Remember, your journey is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to self-care. Find what works best for you and embrace it wholeheartedly. You deserve to feel supported, nurtured, and deeply cared for as you embark on this transformative chapter of motherhood.
In my work as a newborn photographer, I strive to create a supportive and nurturing environment for my clients, recognizing the importance of honoring their journey through every stage of motherhood. By offering these practical tips and resources for self-care, I hope you feel empowered to prioritize your well-being as you navigate the beautiful yet challenging postpartum period. And don’t forget to ask for help! For more information on this topic or others aimed at helping new parents through advice and practical tips check out my blog: https://jesplinphoto.weebly.com/blog
You can find me on: @jesplinphoto