Postpartum Recovery: Tips for Rebuilding Strength and Confidence
Postpartum recovery is a deeply personal journey, and it involves both physical and emotional healing. Many new mothers feel overwhelmed, but it’s important to remember that your body is incredibly resilient. With time, care, and patience, you can regain your strength and confidence.
Here are some tips to help you navigate this period of recovery:
1. Prioritise Rest and Sleep
Create a restful environment, minimise distractions - this includes reducing screen time, especially close to sleeping time.
Sleep when your baby sleeps when it is needed.
2. Nourish Your Body
Eat a balanced diet that focuses on nutrient dense foods.
Hydration! Don’t forget about your water intake but also electrolytes, especially in the beautiful Gold Coast summer.
3. Physical Recovery + Getting Moving Gradually
See your women’s health physiotherapist prior to commencing activity.
Start with slow and controlled movements e.g walking, cycling, body weight exercises, pilates.
No high impact activity for 3 months.
Don’t forget about your pelvic floor exercises!
4. Self-Care for Your Mind and Spirit
Allow yourself grace, your body has gone through a lot and now you have to give it time to heal.
Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who can offer help or be there for your family as needed.
5. Set Realistic Expectations
Accept that things take time.
Avoid comparing yourself to others. Every women’s postpartum journey is different.
6. Know When to Ask for Help
Ask for help.
Accept help.
If you are struggling emotionally or mentally please reach out to a health professional so they can guide you to the best people to help you.
Be kind, be patient and give yourself space to heal, and trust that with time your strength and confidence will return.
Written by Holly Booyse
Physiotherapist / Pilates Instructor
To see our Physiotherapists or book in for a Pilates consult, book an appointment with us online today or call our team on 07 55 04 7000.
