5 Things That Kept Me Sane at 5 Weeks Postpartum

As a constant doer who always has a to-do list that will never get completely checked off, I promised myself that this time, post-delivery, I would prioritize resting. For me, this was extremely difficult. I can ALWAYS think of something I could be doing. After about one week of relaxing and doing nothing, I started to go a bit insane.  

So, at 5 weeks post-baby, here are 5 things I did every day to keep myself sane. (highly recommended for anyone who also can’t just relax like me) 

1. Make a manageable to-do list 

   I know I said that I have a never-ending to-do list, but it really helped me to pick 3 things at the beginning of every morning (or whatever number works) that I wanted to get done that day. I tried hard to make this manageable and make the list smaller than I otherwise would have. This really helped me have the satisfaction of getting things done, but also put some guardrails up of the amount of time and energy I would spend. It also helped me to schedule out some time blocks during the day that I would get the to-do list done. For example, when my toddler and newborn naps overlapped, I would focus on knocking out the to-do list. (Obviously, I know I’m super blessed to have a great sleeping baby that let me put her down.) Finally, it also helped me to have a “master” to-do list in my phone that I could add anything to throughout the day that I thought of that needed to get done. Each morning, it was easy to consult the master to-do list to pick my list of 3.  

2. Movement 

   Again, I know how important rest is for post-baby recovery, but I cannot sit still all day, especially when I’m used to working out. As a compromise, after about 4 weeks, I made it a priority to get outside every day and walk the dogs around the block. The movement and sunshine did me and the baby wonders! 

3. Drink H20 

   This is one of my favorite things that I put on my to-do list because it made me feel better without being something that I had to take time away from baby to accomplish. I basically made it a goal to finish my large water jug every single day. It was tough the first few days, but now it’s second nature and I can’t believe how great it made me feel. It’s a good trick to try to add something you can do to make you feel better like drinking water or walking around the block rather than taking away something (like too many cookies)- the mind is funny how it prefers a positive. 

4. Keep toddler routine consistent 

   Adding another little one to the family was a huge adjustment for everyone, especially my toddler. I’ve found it helpful these past few weeks to keep his routine the same. This included everything like our bedtime routine and even having him go to daycare. As much as I think the consistency has helped him in adjusting (he loves his new sister), the schedule has also really helped me. With so much change, it helps me mentally to have something every day that hasn’t.  

5. Cuddle Baby 

   I will never get over newborn snuggles. Everyone says this, but it honestly can’t be said enough, days are fleeting with a baby. Those scrunched up cuddles only last a few weeks and naps on mama also don’t last forever. Because this is my second, I know firsthand this doesn’t last forever, so I strive to soak up every minute. However, as someone who is always going, it helps me to schedule this in and force myself to just relax with baby. I really think this is one of the most essential parts of mom’s recovery, baby’s growth, and bonding. 

**Bonus:

Remind yourself that you are doing an amazing job- despite everything! Can you ever be sane after having kids? These five things helped but remembering that no two days are the same and that a newborn is unpredictable helped even more.  

As I write this, my baby is approaching 2 months old (once again can’t say enough how fast time goes). I already feel like this list needs updating as what is working for us this week is completely different than two weeks ago. However, what has stayed the same is focusing on those small wins and giving myself grace to adapt.  

How have you stayed sane with a newborn? I would love to hear if any of my tips helped or if you had a different experience. I also need to hear any advice that help you stay sane in the first year of having a toddler and a baby.