What are your tips for making the holidays less stressful so I have time for my new baby?

The holidays are stressful for almost all of us, but they can be even more so for a new mom! Routines are anything but normal during the holidays. You have to be sure to take care of yourself and your baby!

Make time for yourself. Ask your partner or a relative to take over baby duties between feedings and treat yourself to something you enjoy and that relaxes you.

Get plenty of rest. You need plenty of rest in order to produce an ample supply of breast milk. Try to get to bed at a reasonable time every day. Take a nap between feedings, if you can! Breastfeeding is a perfect excuse to find a quiet area to relax and reconnect with your baby away from the chaos.

Ask for help! I know it’s hard for some of us to ask for help, but if family or friends are visiting over the holidays, ask them to bring a dish for the meal to reduce your workload! Ask a visiting parent to help with laundry. Anything to give you that needed break.

Plan ahead! Try to nurse before you go out so you can make the most of your shopping time. If your baby does need to nurse while out, many malls offer family lounge areas to nurse in comfort. The other great place that I always took advantage of is the changing rooms in department stores. They are usually roomy and almost always have a bench or chair to sit on.

This is a joyous time of the year—you have a new addition to your family, and it’s a time to celebrate family. So take care of yourself, and be sure to take time to enjoy the holiday!

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