“I can finish all my chores while my baby naps”, said no mom ever. Prioritize the to-do lists of your life and tick off items on them while your baby sleeps.
To-do lists can prove to be extremely helpful. Do not fill these lists with just chores; allow some time for rest and recreation.
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After being busy tending to your child’s needs, when you get some time to yourself, you wouldn’t want to waste it thinking about what you can and should do.
You could plan and prioritize while your child is awake so that you can get to it as soon as he/she dozes off. Here are a few suggestions on things that you can do while your baby naps:
Relax and recharge: The most common advice you will receive is to sleep while your baby sleeps. Catching some Zs may not always be possible or practical. But you don’t have to doze off to feel rested.
Even lying down and relaxing can recharge you for the challenges of parenthood. Sufficient rest is important for your physical as well as mental health.
Tackle household chores: While some moms may be able to finish their chores during the day while using a baby carrier, some babies might make it impossible for their mothers to get any real work done.
While your baby sleeps, finish folding that load of washed laundry, clear that sink, or tidy up the living space. Finish those choresthat have been haunting you while you were busy taking care of the needs of your baby.
Meal prep: This deserves a special mention. Prepare ingredients for a few days beforehand if possible. This will make cooking easier and quicker, even with a restless baby.
Chop the vegetables, clean and marinate meat, or even whip up a batch of healthy snacks. Refrigerate or freeze the prepped ingredients that you will need later in the week.
Exercise or practice yoga: If you still have some or most of the pregnancy weight and belly, tackle it head-on. Use your available free time for a power-packed workout. Opt for workout routines that you can do in the comfort of your home.
Choose workouts that don’t need a significant time commitment like high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts. Yoga might appeal to you if you aren’t one for high-intensity workouts. You can follow online videos and classes for yoga.
If you prefer to exercise in a separate room while your baby naps, consider using a reliable baby monitor to keep an eye on your child.
Connect with friends and family: While your baby is awake, most of your time is spent with your child. Although this time is meaningful and crucial, you need time to connect with others too. It’s essential to speak to other adults; it helps in preserving mental health.
Call or video chat with a friend or family member to catch up, have a deep conversation or simply enjoy some social interaction. Share your experiences and listen to their stories.
Pursue a hobby or work on a passion project: Do something you enjoy, such as reading, knitting, drawing, or playing a musical instrument. Engaging in a hobby can help you unwind and recharge. Pursue a hobby that brings you joy and helps you relax. Allow yourself to immerse in the activity and enjoy the process fully.
If you have any personal projects you have been meaning to work on like writing a book, DIY decor, or learning a new skill, dedicate some focused time to make progress on them. If you don’t have any ongoing projects, look for and find a project that aligns with your interests and goals.
Break down the project into smaller, achievable tasks. This approach allows you to explore new arenas and make progress even in short periods of time. By breaking it down, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and stay motivated.
Pamper yourself: Treat yourself to a self-care session. Fill up a warm bath with soothing bath salts or essential oils. Use this time to unwind, relax your muscles, and enjoy a moment of tranquility. You can even add some candles or soft music to enhance the calming atmosphere. Give yourself a mini facial. Brew a cup of tea or coffee for yourself. Take the time to savor the flavors and enjoy the quiet moment. Indulge in a book or magazine. Reading can transport you to different worlds, spark your imagination, and provide a mental break from the demands of daily life.
Watch a TV show or movie: Take advantage of the peaceful hour or two; watch an episode of your favorite TV show or a movie you’ve been wanting to see. You could try a new show or revisit an old favorite. Opt for movies or TV episodes with shorter durations, so you can finish them within the timeframe of your baby’s nap. This way you won’t have to worry about pausing or resuming in the middle.
Go for content that doesn’t have loud or intense action scenes or use headphones and keep the volume at a comfortable level for you. Settle down with a cozy blanket and enjoy.
Journaling: Choose a peaceful spot in your home where you can sit comfortably. Create a calming atmosphere by dimming the lights, playing soothing sounds, or using fragrant candles. Grab a journal and pen, and spend time reflecting on your thoughts and emotions. Write about your experiences, dreams, or anything that comes to mind. If you are looking for guidance, you can find journaling prompts online. Journaling can be a therapeutic practice that allows you to express yourself and gain clarity.
Play games: You don’t have to work all the time when your baby sleeps. Play some relaxing and mentally stimulating games. You could play classic games like solitaire or hearts online. Indulging in puzzle games, turn-based strategy games or hidden object games is also an option. Choose games that are designed for short play sessions and can be easily paused whenever required.
Wrapping up
Choose activities based on your interests, energy and fitness levels, and most importantly, the length of your baby’s naps. Strike a proper balance between taking care of your baby, yourself, your interests, and your responsibilities.
