As a first-time mum, you’ve likely heard the advice a thousand times: “Sleep when your baby sleeps.” But for many new mums, it’s easier said than done. With laundry piling up, dishes waiting to be done, and the endless mental checklist running through your mind, it can feel impossible to rest while your baby naps. The power of the power nap is not spoken of enough.
The Reality of Skipping Sleep While it may seem like there’s always something more important to do than rest, skipping sleep can lead to exhaustion, making it harder to function throughout the day. Not getting enough sleep affects your energy, patience, and emotional well-being, which can make motherhood feel overwhelming.
Why It’s Important to Sleep When Baby Sleeps
When you don’t sleep while your baby naps, you miss out on valuable moments of rest that help you recharge. It’s tempting to catch up on chores or enjoy a few minutes of quiet time, but consistently losing sleep catches up quickly.
Without proper rest, it’s easy to fall into a cycle of burnout, feeling like you’re constantly running on empty and just trying to get through the day. It becomes harder to enjoy the small moments with your baby when you’re feeling fatigued.
Tips to Help You Sleep When Baby Sleeps
Let Go of Perfection - The laundry can wait, and the dishes will still be there later. Prioritize sleep over non-essential tasks. The more rested you are, the better you’ll feel throughout the day.
Create a Relaxing Environment - When your baby naps, try to wind down as well. Dim the lights, turn off distractions, and lie down. Even if you don’t fall asleep right away, resting your body can still be beneficial.
Set Small Goals - If you’re struggling to nap every time your baby does, start by committing to rest during at least one nap per day. Gradually, you’ll feel more comfortable allowing yourself to sleep.
Ask for Help - If you’re overwhelmed with chores or to-do lists, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether it’s a family member, partner, or friend, having someone lend a hand can free you up to take a much-needed nap.
Self-Care for First-Time Mums - Remember, self-care is crucial, especially when you’re caring for a newborn. It’s okay to prioritize your sleep and well-being. By resting when your baby sleeps, you’ll have more energy and patience to embrace the joys and challenges of new motherhood.
Take it one nap at a time—you’re doing amazing, and your health matters just as much as your little one’s.
