Finding a Moment for Me Time: Tips for New Moms

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.

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.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

  • The Delicate Balance of Children's Skin: Why Ad...

    Are you using your shampoo for your kids as well? Is it safe for your kids? Are you a parent struggling to find the right skincare products for your kids...

    Read more

    The Delicate Balance of Children's Skin: Why Adult Skincare Isn't Suitable

    Are you using your shampoo for your kids as well? Is it safe for your kids? Are you a parent struggling to find the right skincare products for your kids and teens? Many parents even switch to using adult products once their kids reach 6 years old due to this confusion. As parents, our children's well-being is paramount, and understanding the unique needs of their developing skin and hair is crucial. Their skin and hair differ significantly from adults, and using adult products can have adverse effects. Dr. Prajakta Bhokre, a seasoned pediatrician and neonatologist in Pune, emphasizes, “Children's skin and hair are delicate and require special care. Adult skincare and hair care products can disrupt the delicate balance and harm their developing systems." Kids' Skin: A Delicate Canvas To comprehend the importance of specialized care for children's skin, we must recognize the structural differences between their skin and adults'. A child's skin is thinner, more delicate, and has a higher surface area to body weight ratio than adults. Their skin's natural protective barrier, composed of lipids, is not fully developed, which means their skin is not as efficient at retaining moisture and is more susceptible to dehydration, irritation, and damage from environmental factors such as UV radiation and pollutants. Even the pH level of a child's skin is more acidic, which helps to ward off harmful bacteria and makes it more sensitive to changes and potential damage. Their hair is finer and less oily, resulting in a greater tendency for tangles and breakage. Why It's Unsafe for Kids to Use Adult Products? Adult skincare and hair care products often contain potent ingredients like parabens, sulphates, silicones, talc, and phthalates that may be too harsh for a child's delicate skin and hair. Ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid, and strong fragrances can strip away natural oils, disrupt the skin's pH balance, and cause allergies, rashes, or even chemical burns in children. Moreover, many adult products are formulated to address age-specific concerns, such as wrinkles or acne, which are not relevant to children. Ideal Ingredients for Kids' Skincare and Hair Care For kids aged 5-10, it's important to choose products with gentle, natural ingredients. Ingredients like almond oil, olive oil, basil oil, rice protein, aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter, turmeric oil, and oats are not only nourishing but also gentle on young skin and hair. “These ingredients hydrate, protect, soothe, and help maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier, promoting healthy growth and making them perfect for nurturing young skin and hair,” says Dr. Bhokre The Importance of Age-Appropriate Products (0-10 years) It's essential to select age-appropriate products for kids. Dr. Bhokre further states that “Children aged 5-10 years should use products specifically designed for their age group, such as baby products ranging from 0-10 years. These products are formulated with the unique needs of growing children's skin and hair in mind, providing gentle care without harsh chemicals.” They contain milder ingredients, ensuring that kids' skin remains protected and nourished. pH Levels: A Precarious Balance A child's skin is more prone to pH level changes than an adult's. Their skin's pH is naturally more acidic at around 5.5, which acts as a barrier against harmful bacteria. Adult products can disrupt this delicate balance, leaving their skin vulnerable, further leading to dryness, itchiness,  infections, or even eczema. Structural Differences in Hair In addition to skin, a child's hair is structurally different from an adult's. Children's hair is finer, more fragile, less porous and lacks the oil-producing capabilities of adult hair. Adult hair products may strip their hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Ingredients to Avoid in Kids' Products “When selecting skincare and hair care products for kids, it's essential to avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates, talc, asbestos, silicones, mineral oils, parabens, and strong fragrances. These ingredients can irritate the skin and harm their overall health”, says Dr. Bhokre. Opt for products that are free from harmful additives to keep the child’s skin healthy while keeping them safe from the detrimental effects of these harmful chemicals. At CITTA we focus on using the highest quality natural ingredients while keeping harsh chemicals at bay. Our products are carefully formulated to cater to the unique needs of children's skin and hair. CITTA prioritizes safety and nourishment for kids' skin and our commitment to natural ingredients ensures that children can enjoy healthy, glowing skin without the risk of adverse reactions. While it may be tempting to use adult skincare and hair care products on your children, it's essential to consider their unique skin and hair needs. Opt for products specifically designed for kids, enriched with natural ingredients, and free from harsh chemicals. Our products promote healthy skin for children while emphasizing the importance of nourishment and safety in children's skincare routines. After all, our children deserve the very best, and that begins with caring for their delicate skin and hair with the utmost attention and care.

    Read More

  • Baby's Delicate Skin Deserves the Best: Choose ...

    Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD) is a distinguished Consulting Pediatrician in Pune. With an impressive track record, he served as Former President of the Maharashtra State Academy of Pediatrics in 2010...

    Read more

    Baby's Delicate Skin Deserves the Best: Choose the Perfect Skincare for your Bundle of Joy

    Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD) is a distinguished Consulting Pediatrician in Pune. With an impressive track record, he served as Former President of the Maharashtra State Academy of Pediatrics in 2010 and Former President of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics Pune Branch from 2008 to 2009. He's also the Director of Unique Hospital for Children and Kartik Group of Hospitals in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune. Dr Dhekne is recognized as a Master Trainer for both the "Asthma Training Module" and "Problem-Solving in Paediatric Infectious Diseases (PSPID)" by IAP.  As you embark on this new adventure called parenting, keeping your bundle of joy cosy and well-fed becomes your top-most priority. You’d move mountains to ensure they’re showered with all the TLC in the world; you would go to any lengths to protect them. Apart from ensuring the right nutrition and shielding them from heat and cold, even delicate matters like choosing the right skincare for your ‘mini-me’ can become an uphill task. Their sensitive and delicate skin requires the utmost care. If you’re unsure about how to choose the best skincare products for your little munchkins, we’ve got you covered! Dr Jagadish Dhekne (MD), who is among the distinguished consulting pediatricians from Pune, is here to drop some wisdom on pampering that adorable epidermis and the dos and don'ts of skincare for babies. He also gives us a low-down on how to pick the safest baby skincare brands: Allergen-free formulations:  Opt for products that are free from harsh chemicals, strong fragrances, and dyes. Allergen-free formulations are designed to minimise the risk of adverse reactions and are gentler on your baby's skin. Avoid harmful ingredients:  “Avoid products that contain parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and artificial preservatives, as these chemicals can cause skin irritations and potential long-term health risks. Instead, choose products with natural Indian ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, turmeric oil, and almond oil, known for their soothing properties,” says Dr Dhekne. Moisturisation is key: Babies are prone to dry skin, especially in certain weather conditions. Choose moisturising products specifically formulated for babies to keep their skin soft and hydrated. Read labels thoroughly: Take the time to read product labels carefully and pay attention to certifications such as ‘paediatrician-tested’ and ‘dermatologist-approved.’ These endorsements offer added assurance about the product's safety and efficacy. Minimalistic approach: Stick to the essentials for baby skincare, such as a gentle baby wash and moisturiser. Avoid overwhelming your baby’s skin with too many products. Consult a paediatric dermatologist: When in doubt, seek professional advice. Paediatricians can assess your baby’s skin type and recommend suitable products based on their needs. A dermatologist can also provide personalised guidance if your child has specific skin conditions like eczema or cradle cap. “The natural ingredients in babycare products help soothe and protect the delicate baby skin, leaving it soft, supple and healthy. Parents can witness improved skin conditions, reduced irritation and a noticeable difference in their baby's overall skin health after using natural and organic products,” adds Dr Dhekne. When it comes to baby skincare, it’s always better to exercise caution. You can embrace the benefits of natural care through CITTA’s dermatologist-approved and ‘conscious’ baby skincare products. The brand is committed to crafting products with natural ingredients while maintaining the highest safety and efficacy standards. CITTA’s baby skincare range comprises gentle and nourishing formulations enriched with plant extracts, essential oils, and botanical goodness.

    Read More