Finding a Moment for Me Time: Tips for New Moms

Spending time with your baby is a rewarding experience as a new mother. After having dreamed of your time together during the long months of your pregnancy, you finally get to hold your baby in your hands, look at her smiling, and cuddle with her all day long! It is a beautiful feeling to notice something new every day, whether it is the way they hold your fingers or nap comfortably on your shoulders. And as they grow up, this list of adorable moments with them just keeps on getting longer. But while making time for all these moments, have you found a moment for yourself?
Finding a moment for ‘me time’ as a new mom can be very challenging, but it is really important. Not just for you, but for your baby and family too. Meaningful me time allows you to recharge yourself mentally, physically, and emotionally—so you can show up better. You can be more present for your loved ones when you prioritize your own self. However difficult that might sound to you at the moment, trust us, you can do this! Here are a few tips that can help you find time as a new mom:
Start by creating small pockets of joy, then build them up
This is crucial! When you are struggling to find decent hours of sleep adjusting to your baby’s new sleeping routine, it can seem impossible to even think of taking some time to do something for yourself. That is why even 5 minutes is a good start. Before your baby wakes up, or as soon as she/he has fallen asleep, take out 5 minutes for yourself. Fill those 5 minutes with a small activity that you enjoy—a brisk walk in your terrace garden, listening to a soothing song, meditation, a few sets of quick stretches, or making yourself a hot cup of tea. All you need to aim for is to be fully present with yourself in those few minutes. Once you start doing this, you will also start noticing more opportunities for such times, and you can build these small pockets of joy into your daily life.
Have realistic expectations for yourself
Your time is precious. Even if dusting the window panes seems like an essential task to you, ask yourself if it really is. Whatever your previous housekeeping habits were, after a baby, it will serve you better if you start setting realistic expectations. Be very clear about needs and optional tasks, and you will be able to free up some time for yourself. For example, clean baby clothes are necessary, but well-folded clothes? You could probably skip that part if you’re feeling overwhelmed with ten other things to do. Allow yourself to be a little more relaxed when it comes to household chores.
Ask for help (or hire) without any guilt or shame
Moms are the primary caregivers in most families. This means they are expending more energy and time on caregiving than their partners. But you need not be doing everything alone. Raising a child does take a village, and you should ask for help without any guilt. Try to work out a system with your partner where you both get some child-free time for yourself. If you are a single mom, or if you and your partner are both working hectic jobs, consider hiring help. If it is possible, ask your relatives to take care of your baby for a few hours every week, so that you can schedule some fun activities with your partner or friends. Many moms feel guilty about asking for help, but this is nothing to be ashamed of. You are still a great mother if you take help, and you should remember that.
Cultivate hobbies that you can do at home
Being a mom takes up so much time and energy that many new moms feel like they are losing touch with their older identities. Were you a biking enthusiast before you had a baby? Did you travel a lot with your friends? While it may not be possible to do the same set of activities anymore, it is very much possible for you to cultivate hobbies that make you feel like yourself. Only this time, you’ll need to fine-tune your hobbies such that they can be done at home easily. Painting, reading, yoga, hula-hoops, Zumba, and at-home workouts are some options you can start exploring right away.
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Plan vacations with baby-friendly travel options
If you have the travel bug, you can keep traveling even after becoming a mom. You will need to plan a lot more, but it can be a wonderful shared experience. Look for baby-friendly options at every stage—stay, amenities, food, and activities. Many hotels and resorts have kids' clubs with activities planned for your little ones. Look for services such as strollers, cribs, 24-hr on-call doctors, and baby food on-demand. Plan your stay during warmer weather to ensure the comfort of your baby.
Involve your kids in chores and make routine tasks more meaningful
Involving your 5-year-old in household chores will make him/her feel more important as well as more connected to you. You can ask your kids to do small tasks to help you, such as putting their toys back in the box or carrying their own plates to the sink after finishing a meal. You can also think of creative ways of doing certain activities together that are fun for both of you. Can you bake cookies together where your kid shapes the dough? Are you missing karaoke nights? Why not plan one with your little one for a change? Instead of feeling exhausted after doing the regular chores, if you can make the chores interesting, they can become your much-needed me time.
Schedule playdates with other moms
Why not make your child’s playtime fun for yourself too? While your kid plays with your friend’s baby, you both get to spend some time making adult conversation. You can schedule these playdates every week or every other week so that you block this time to connect with your friends without leaving your child alone.
Join a support group or parents club to socialize
Parenting is one of those experiences which you need to experience to understand. Parenting clubs and support groups offer you a safe space for you to connect with other new parents. With CITTA Care Club, we are trying to create a supportive community of parents where they can feel safe and relaxed enough to enjoy some quality downtime, either by themselves or with their partners and kids.
Finding me time as a mom is difficult, but not impossible! We hope that these tips will help you feel a little bit more in control of your time and help you to carve out those moments of peace and joy in your busy new-mom life.
Lexicon Lifestyle
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Is Sunscreen Really Good for Kids? What Every P...
Introduction Children's skin is delicate. Their skin is about 30% thinner than adult skin, which makes it more vulnerable to the sun in India. Yet, many parents think sunscreen for...
Read moreIs Sunscreen Really Good for Kids? What Every Parent Should Know
Introduction Children's skin is delicate. Their skin is about 30% thinner than adult skin, which makes it more vulnerable to the sun in India. Yet, many parents think sunscreen for kids is an extra burden instead of considering it a daily essential. Sun protection is absolutely necessary, yet it falls to the bottom of parenting priorities. Now, it is indeed important to explore the following questions: Is sunscreen really necessary and safe for our little ones? Why Kids Need Sunscreen More Than Adults Children’s skin needs extra protection than adults. Because their skin is much thinner, it absorbs UV radiation more readily, leading to immediate and long-term damage. Children often seem to spend their hours on playground breaks, school sports, or maybe a family outing, which all happen under significant sun exposure. According to research, during childhood years, substantial sun damage occurs. As per the Skin Cancer Foundation, before age 20, five severe sunburns increase melanoma risk by 80%. Therefore, early protection is about preventing temporary sunburns as well as safeguarding against future issues like premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and more serious conditions. What Makes a Sunscreen Kid-Friendly? All the sunscreens we see contain different components, particularly when it comes to children's sensitive skin. The best sunscreen for kids offers: These broad-spectrum covers come with both UVA and UVB protective factors. High SPF ratings, such as SPF 70 sunscreen, provide the best protection. Sunscreen, holding a PA++++ rating, provides intense protection in India's hot and humid conditions Formulations that have zero harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, parabens, and others. Unscented, gentle formulas that won’t irritate sensitive skin Try CITTA Protecting Sunscreen SPF 70 – specially formulated for baby-soft, sensitive skin. What to Look for in a Baby Sunscreen Lotion Things parents should prioritize while buying a baby sunscreen lotion Products that have gone through extensive dermatological testing Tear-free formulations that do not trouble the eyes Water-resistance properties are included, especially when kids are sweating or swimming The product is lightweight and has non-greasy textures that kids will not resist wearing All these features ensure your child will receive the best protection from the sun with no discomfort, which will eventually make the daily application much easier for everyone involved. When and How to Apply Sunscreen on Kids Timing and technique are both extremely important to know when it comes to effective sun protection. Apply sunscreen for kids 20 minutes prior to going out as it gives the product some time to form a protective barrier on the skin. While applying, we have to be really generous, as most parents use too little. Apply all the exposed areas, including often forgotten ones: ears, neck, and feet. Putting an alarm on in your phone for the reapplication of your preferred sunscreen every two hours is essential, especially after swimming or heavy perspiration. Do not forget to make sunscreen a year-round habit. It is just not for sunny days, but it is necessary to apply sunscreen on cloudy days too. Harmful UV rays penetrate cloud cover, reaching your child's skin. Common Myths About Sunscreen for Kids Let's go through some common misconceptions: ❌ "Children don't need sunscreen if they stay in the shade." Reality: Reflection of UV radiation from surfaces like sand, water, and concrete reaches the skin even in shaded areas. ❌ "Sunscreen is only necessary during summer or beach outings." Reality: UV radiation affects skin year-round, no matter what the temperature is. ❌ "Dark-skinned children have natural protection." Reality: It is true that melanin offers some protection, but it is essential to have dedicated sun protection for children. ✅ Truth: Every child benefits from daily sun protection irrespective of the nature of the weather, location, or skin tone. Also Read: Sunscreen for Kids: Debunking Myths and Determining the Right Age to Start The CITTA Advantage: Why Parents Trust Our SPF 70 Sunscreen When choosing the best sunscreen for kids, parents trust in CITTA's SPF 70 protection. Let’s take you through what sets it apart: Specifically formulated to protect children's delicate skin from the sun Doesn't leave a chalky white residue that kids will not like Contains no harsh chemicals that might cause sensitivity Works effectively and efficiently across all skin types and tones Pediatric skin specialists do recommend this to parents. As per parents’ honest reviews, children prefer CITTA Protecting Sunscreen SPF 70, its pleasant, non-sticky feel, which is less of a battle and has turned into a routine of protection for their children’s skin. Final Thoughts Sun protection isn't just about preventing today's sunburn, but it is also an investment towards your child's lifelong skin health. When applying baby sunscreen becomes a habit of daily skincare routine as brushing teeth, it establishes a discipline, a healthy habit that will benefit them for decades. With the right child-safe sunscreen in India, children get the freedom to enjoy outdoor activities while you are also ensuring that their precious skin is protected. Remember: healthy skin begins with early protection, and the responsibility of keeping the skin protected begins with you. Also Read: How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for Dry Skin FAQ Section: 1. Is sunscreen safe for babies and toddlers? Yes, for children over 6 months, it is absolutely okay to apply sunscreen, which is a mineral-based formula with zinc oxide for sensitive baby skin. For younger babies, rely on shade and be picky about clothing instead. 2. Can I use adult sunscreen on my child? It's better to use dedicated baby sunscreen products as children's skin is more sensitive. Therefore, kid-friendly formulas have fewer irritating ingredients. 3. How often should I reapply sunscreen on my child? Every 2 hours during sun exposure, and repeat the application more frequently (every 80 minutes). Do the same while swimming or sweating heavily. 4. Is SPF 70 sunscreen too much for kids? No, SPF 70 sunscreen provides appropriate protection for children and is perfect for dealing with India's climate. Most parents are not aware of the right quantity of the product to use, so higher SPF offers better safety. 5. Can sunscreen cause skin irritation in kids? Some children may be sensitive to certain ingredients. Before picking a sunscreen, perform a patch test first. Choose mineral sunscreens for sensitive skin and consult a doctor if irritation occurs. Also Read: The Best Sunscreen for Newborn: Protecting Your Baby’s Delicate Skin
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How to Take Care of Your Baby During Summer in ...
Summer is almost here and your newborn baby needs a little extra care this hot season! Keep reading for some essential summer newborn care tips to keep your little one...
Read moreHow to Take Care of Your Baby During Summer in India: Essential Tips for Hot Weather
Summer is almost here and your newborn baby needs a little extra care this hot season! Keep reading for some essential summer newborn care tips to keep your little one safe and comfortable.
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