How to Thrive as a NICU Momma
Hello friends,
We can only prepare so much with birth! Sometimes babies must stay at the hospital for a little or much longer than anticipated. I had the honor of supporting nicu mommas for over 12 years and I have learned some very valuable tips. I hope if you are preparing for your birth you consider these tips to keep in the back of your mind. I find preparation the way to help calm our minds and hearts as we approach birth. Preparing to care for yourself regardless if your baby is staying at the hospital longer or leaving at the same time as you, can be absolutely valuable. Maybe you are in the thick of it currently - these tips are for you too! Wishing you all the snuggles and recovery!
These are a few of my favorite tips ⬇️
🤱🏼wear cozy breathable cotton & linen clothing
🍂Hospitals tend to run freezing and I have found with postpartum hormones, it can feel really good at first. But after a while, I notice my momma clients start battling hot to cold, to freezing to sweaty cold. I love breathable clothing to allow for temperature comfort and overall your health. Our vibration is higher when we wear natural fabrics as well. Why not consider packing a few cotton, linen or wool items to support your body?
🤱🏼ask friends and family to meal prep 3-4 meals every week for late night meals
🍂It is tempting to rely on the vending machines, hospital food and food delivery. But remember your body needs healing during this time from nourishing foods. I love choosing 3-4 recipes per week and send them over to family and friends to prep. Nourishing meals can simply be warmed up and placed in a thermos for quick bites. Time really goes by so fast in the NICU, why not nourish your healing body during that time - soon you will be cozy with your baby at home.
🤱🏽consume only warm soups and teas
🍂Again, nourishing foods are vital for your recovery. Most foods that are quick to eat often are cold and crunchy. Postpartum is a time to consume warm and soft. Think congee, oatmeal, blended soups. Your digestion will absolutely thank you and your immune system will be amazing.
🤱🏽take it one moment at a time - you are healing too
🍂Take your time. Take your time. We often focus on the future - “I’ll be happy when….”and that is so much pressure on our minds and bodies. Be in the moment, the good, scary, mundane, lonely, happy moments. There is enough worry in the future, and questions in the past, be in the moment with trust and love.
🤱🏽wear wool socks to ground your body
🍂Wool socks are wonderful for allowing moisture to escape and to regulate your temperature. I love stashing a few extra pairs in my momma client’s birth bag for rotation. Did you know wool needs to be washed less often? Wool socks are equally warming as they are comfy!
🤱🏽give yourself permission to have days/hours home to rest and recover
🍂Releasing guilt and allowing yourself to take a deep exhale will be vital for your recovery. This might look like going home for a few hours to shower, rest and nourish before going back to the hospital. Ask friends and family to support your need to rest.
Feel free to reach out to me if you need additional support - postpartum doulas are trained and passionate about supporting mothers through their journey of healing no matter the season they are in.
Happy healing!
This is how we heal
Your healing matters
You matter 🤍
Holding mommas,
ML 🥹✨🤍🧺
