Before the special day arrives when you hold your precious newborn in your arms, take a moment to reflect on all that has gone into creating this new life. Perhaps it began with a preconception health regime, including supplements, dietary changes, lifestyle and work adjustments, or even multiple IVF attempts. Beyond the physical preparation, it’s also about making space in your life and heart to welcome another soul.

A baby takes more than nine months to grow, and it often takes longer than that for a woman’s body to fully recover from pregnancy and childbirth. As a mother of four, my heartfelt advice is to go easy on your remarkable body and trust yourself through this amazing transition.

Postnatal life brings with it a rollercoaster of emotions — from the highest of highs to moments of deep vulnerability. Prioritise sleep and rest whenever your baby sleeps. Remember that recovery and bonding are not a race.

You might experience various postnatal discomforts, physically and emotionally. Be patient with your body. Don’t hesitate to ask for help — seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Follow your baby’s cues and trust your innate wisdom. Confidence comes with practice, so believe in yourself. You cannot “spoil” a newborn with love, cuddles, and responsive care. What can be detrimental is imposing strict, clock-based routines that disregard your baby’s natural rhythms and emotional needs.

While it’s important to rest, avoiding “cabin fever” is equally essential. Being indoors for extended periods can lead to feelings of isolation and low mood. A gentle stroll each day can do wonders — fresh air, movement, and a change of scenery can soothe both you and your baby.

The early days are fleeting and sacred. Amidst the challenges and sleepless nights, remember to savor these precious moments. They pass far too quickly.

Uniquely formulated from a probiotic strain naturally found in mothers’ breastmilk, Qiara supports gastrointestinal and immune health through every life stage. It can also assist in preventing mild mastitis.

A comprehensive one-a-day multivitamin and mineral formula designed for preconception, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Don’t stop your multi post-birth — your body and breast milk need the ongoing nutritional support.

Maintains DHA and EPA levels in breastfeeding women and supports healthy fetal development. As your growing baby draws on your omega-3 stores, supplementation helps support your brain health, mood, joints, and skin during the postnatal period.

Reflexology is a great non-invasive way to help prepare a woman’s body for conception, pregnancy and birth. As a gentle, supportive therapy it provides relief, relaxation, and rejuvenation to both mum and baby.

With all the focus on the new baby, it is important to remember that a mama needs nurturing too.

 

Yasmin Kent is a dedicated health practitioner with over 20 years of experience in the complementary health industry. She believes in a holistic approach to healing, restoring flow to the body and soul by clearing blocks that hinder movement and growth.

Understanding that life’s natural ebb and flow calls for different approaches to well-being, Yasmin integrates a range of healing modalities, including Clinical Reflexology, Western Herbal Medicine, Remedial Massage, Aromatherapy, and Nutrition. Through her practice, she has observed that unresolved emotional and physical issues often manifest in the body’s tissues, reinforcing her passion for integrative bodywork.

With a deeply intuitive and compassionate nature, Yasmin ensures that every client feels relaxed, comfortable, and supported in their well-being journey. She believes that grounding and integrating into the physical body are essential steps before fully connecting with the soul. Through bodywork, plant medicine, breath work, and energetic healing, she helps others achieve this.