Becoming a parent for the first time is a life-changing experience that can be both exciting and overwhelming. Your first parenting journey marks the beginning of a new phase in life, filled with joy, love, and responsibilities. However, the experience can also be quite challenging, as first-time parents face a steep learning curve and must adapt to new routines and lifestyles. Here, Cheryl MacDonald, Founder of YogaBellies.com – yoga for new and expectant mums – shares 6 things to remember during your first parenting journey.
Trust your instincts
Having a baby for the first time can be overwhelming and very challenging but the main thing to remember is to trust your instincts – you are the baby’s primary caregiver and it’s up to you to listen to your gut. You will know what your baby wants and so you should look after them in a way that is right for you and your family.
Remember that babies are individuals
So, what works for someone else’s baby might not work for yours. They develop at their own pace so try not to compare your baby to others and don’t worry too much about things like developmental milestones. Focus on being loving and supportive and creating a place for your baby to grow and thrive.
Be patient and flexible
We’re always trying to set a routine for our little ones, getting them to nap at this time, feed at this time and we can get a bit obsessed with this. Remember that parenting is a learning experience so be patient with yourself and your baby and try and figure out different approaches and what works best for you and your family.
Ask for help
Don’t feel like you can’t ask for help. Being a new parent can be scary and overwhelming but it’s ok to reach out. Reach out to a post-partum doula or a babysitter if you need a little break or time to yourself, or friends or family. That’s absolutely fine and don’t beat yourself up for it.
Take care of yourself
This is a really important one; as a new parent it is super easy to be so consumed with your baby that you completely neglect yourself but taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your baby. So, make sure that you get enough sleep, that you eat well and that you take those breaks when you can – whether that’s to do a yoga practice, watch your favourite TV show, or head out with friends.
Enjoy the journey!
I know you might be completely exhausted but parenting is a wonderful and rewarding experience in spite of all of that. It can be challenging but don’t forget to enjoy the special moments; those firsts with your baby. Cherish those memories that you’re going to create together.
Becoming a parent for the first time can be overwhelming for so many reasons. From the sheer amount of responsibility to the lack of experience, constant changes, lack of support, and pressure to be perfect, there are many factors that can make the experience challenging. However, with time, patience, and support, new parents can adapt to their new roles and find joy and fulfillment in the often chaotic and overwhelming experience of a first parenting journey.
YogaBellies have recently launched YogaPause – yoga that focuses on everything women need as they move through menopause, from the first signs to the end of their menstrual cycles. It focuses on weight bearing yoga practices, combined with weights (YogaPause STRONG) and also looks at all the stuff nobody wants to talk about – weight gain and menopause belly, hormonal fluctuations and mood swings, joint pain, and even the effect on libido and the dreaded vaginal atrophy.
This programme takes yoga off the mat and into life – looking at natural solutions to symptoms and promising strength, energy and vitality throughout life. To find your nearest class or join online visit YogaPause – YogaBellies®
