Babies are one of my absolute FAVORITE little creatures on the planet. Mine, yours…really any baby will do! But let's face it, there are lots of things about newborns that we weren't warned about. Another thing you may not have been warned about is that baby brain is real! I am happy to report that there are some ways to beat baby brain!!
For me the baby brain seemed to get worse with each of my children. I don't know if I was more exhausted due to juggling mommyhood for the masses or if it was my increasing age that caused it. All I know is that by the time my fourth child was born…I could barely remember the names of my older three kids! 🙁
Baby Brain is Real and Five Ways to Beat It
Now, I'm not here to argue whether baby brain exists or not. My personal research has already proven that baby brain is real. (Admittedly, the sample size was small… just me and my other mom friends)
Additionally, there are many other studies that show how women's brains temporarily adapt and change during pregnancy and early motherhood. Mostly, these changes produce incredibly positive effects which help us to meet the needs of our newborn child. And yet, many moms (me included) also complain of random forgetfulness, oversensitivity, and a lack of focus with some logical tasks.
Baby brain deniers, step aside… Moms gather round… Here are five tips to get you through it whilst staying sane.
1) Top up on nutrients
Your brain needs plenty of minerals, vitamins and healthy fats to perform at it's best. The first, easy way to do this is to continue taking your prenatal vitamins after birth. They're packed full of goodness and will help to keep your body and brain powered-up. (Run this past your doctor first.) The second is to eat your baby's food.
Whaaat!?
Hear me out… If you plan on going DIY and using a baby food maker – researching and creating ridiculously healthy superfood purees – then do yourself a favor and cook for two.
2) Get self-disciplined about sleep
90% of baby brain is sleep deprivation. If you're anything like me, then you probably don't manage the whole “sleep when your baby sleeps” thing. As soon as my baby went to sleep, I either tried to get something done or I lay in bed scrolling through my Facebook feed. Try not to! It is in these precious moments that self-discipline pays-off. When baby sleeps, put your smart phone into airplane mode. Pick up a book. Trust me, within one paragraph, you'll be unconscious. Your mind will reboot and your brain will snatch a much-needed 20-minutes of downtime.
3) Treat yourself to a fancy “To Do” notepad
Invest in a quality notepad and pen. Here's the thing: you'll want to keep a running to do list, especially during the first months, as your home and head descend into chaos. Your fancy notepad and pen will give you solace and support. Practically, they'll help you to stay on top of it. Psychologically, they'll remind you that you are a sophisticated, responsible and organized woman. Hold on to that feeling, sister!
4) Diffuse lemon essential oil
With kids about, an essential oil diffuser is safer than a burner. And, always go for pure organic oils, nothing synthetic. Lemon's invigorating fragrance uplifts the mind and body. It's stress reducing and mood-boosting qualities have been back up by clinical studies.
5) Be kind to yourself
Finally, don't get too hung up on beating your baby brain. Try to accept and embrace it. It won't last for long. You have just performed the superhuman miracle of growing and birthing a baby. Now you are keeping them alive and well. Who cares if you forget the odd little thing? Pah! You are a heroine who deserves a medal and a standing ovation.
What is your funniest story of baby brain? I would love to hear all about it and share a laugh with you!! Baby brain is real and it can also be really funny!!
- Printable Easter Bunny Note to Child - March 20, 2023
- Easter Egg Filler Ideas for Adults - March 13, 2023
- Laundry Cheat Sheet for College Students - March 7, 2023
Leave a Reply