How to Find Time for Yourself When You Have a Newborn
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Mama, if you’re reading this while rocking a baby with one arm and scrolling with the other—first, take a deep breath. I see you💛
You’re in the thick of it. The blurry, beautiful, bone-tired stretch of newborn life where your body isn't your own and time feels like a myth. Finding space for yourself can feel impossible. But here’s the truth:
You still matter.
Even now.
Especially now.
Why Moms Stop Taking Time for Themselves
Let’s name it:
- You feel guilty for wanting space.
- You think rest = weakness.
- You’re scared something will fall apart without you.
- Or maybe you don’t even know what you need anymore.
But mama, you can’t pour from an empty cup. And your baby doesn’t need a perfect mom—they need a whole, grounded, human one.
7 Gentle Ways to Find Time for Yourself (That Actually Work)
1. Redefine “Me Time”
It doesn’t have to be an hour-long bath. Sometimes it’s 5 minutes of silence while the baby naps, or sipping tea while watching the sunrise. ✨
2. Lower the Bar
You don’t need elaborate rituals. Listen to a podcast during a feeding. Stretch your shoulders while burping your baby. Micro-moments count💗
3. Build a Morning or Evening Anchor
Even a 10-minute routine at the start or end of your day (hair brushing, journaling, deep breathing) can feel like a lifeline in the fog.
4. Say YES When Help Is Offered
This is your permission slip to accept help—even when you want to control everything. Let someone hold your baby while you nap. Let the dishes wait.
5. Create a “Mom Cave” Corner
A chair. A soft blanket. A book. A candle. Even if it’s in your closet. A space that’s just yours helps remind you that you still exist beyond motherhood.
6. Practice “Passive Rest”
Let yourself lie down during your baby’s nap. You don’t have to do anything productive. Rest is productive 💤
7. Put It On the Calendar
Yes, even 20 minutes of alone time. If it’s scheduled, you’re more likely to honor it (and your partner or support system is more likely to protect it, too).
🌸 A Note from Bloom & Heal
We believe your comfort matters just as much as your baby’s. Our maternity bras are made to support you through the long days, leaky nights, and quiet moments you carve out just for yourself. 🌿
Looking for more soul-soothing, mom-to-mom tips? Visit the Bloom & Heal blog — where motherhood meets real support.
FAQs
Q: Is it normal to feel resentful about having no time for myself?
A: Yes, and you’re not a bad mom for it. Resentment is often a sign of unmet needs—like rest, space, or identity. (Read our Real Mom Confessions letter on feeling guilty about wanting time away from your baby.)
Q: What if I feel guilty taking time away from my baby?
A: You’re allowed to care for yourself. When you feel nourished, your baby benefits too.
Q: How can I communicate my needs to my partner or family?
A: Be honest and specific. Try, “I need 30 minutes alone after your shift,” or “Can you hold the baby while I eat with both hands?”
Q: What if I can’t afford childcare or outside help?
A: Try trading time with a mom friend, using screen time wisely for older siblings, or practicing “parallel play” self-care—like reading while your baby plays.
Q: Will I ever feel like myself again?
A: Yes, but it might be a new version of yourself. And she’s worthy of care, too.
