As I was looking through old posts, I found this one hanging out in drafts. Who knows why I never published it. Maybe I was going to add more to it or I got distracted by something. I decided to share it now because the advice is solid and maybe it’s just what you’re looking for today.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind.  They are applicable to everyone at any point in time, but especially relevant to those of you who are on the journey to mamahood.

Preconception: Keep it slow and simple.  Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed like I did by all the changes you want to make before you get pregnant.  Start making some shifts in the way you think and approach food and wellness and let things happen at a natural pace.  If you know you need to be drinking more water, start there because it is so easy to do but it will have an amazing impact on your energy and overall health very quickly.  Set a few simple goals and get yourself comfortable with the mindset that change is a process, not an overnight event.

Pregnancy: Relax. With the anticipation of the responsibility of parenthood and the fears that inevitably come with that, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and anxious during pregnancy. Remind yourself that you are doing the best you can for your baby, and that is perfect.  Take control of the things that you can (such as eating habits, what products you use, etc) and start to let go of the rest.  We can’t protect our children from everything in the world, and we’ll drive ourselves crazy if we try.  Knowing that staying calm will help you best care for your baby is great motivation to relax.

Postpartum: Accept help. This time of year often finds us surrounded by family and friends.  This can sometimes be overwhelming, especially if you are exhausted but you can use it to your advantage.  Let others take care of the baby so you can get a plate of food, catch up with people you haven’t seen for a while, or even sneak away for a quick nap.  Let friends and family support you with these moments for yourself, and try to release control and worry for these pockets of time, however brief they may be.