For all the joy that little ones bring, the massive changes they make to your life and routines can be challenging. Stress, overwhelm and exhaustion are feelings every new parent experiences, and a big cause of the emotional rollercoaster is lack of sleep. While getting a solid eight hours a night may not be easy for those first special years, there are ways you can optimise sleep for your emotional wellbeing. From finding the best mattress to mastering power naps, here are simple tips every new parent can use to stay rested.
Set up your bedtime sanctuaryÂ
The differences a few hours of good sleep can make to parenting are endless. From boosting mood, lowering anxiety to energising playtime, every moment of high, quality rest counts. On average a new parent loses up to 109 minutes of sleep a night, so you want to make sure this is as deep and restorative as possible. Having the right mattress can work wonders. Though what do you look for? The leading causes of sleep disturbances are overheating and motion transfer, so you want to find one that nips both in the bud. And provides you with orthopaedic grade spinal support along with it! Panda London’s ultra- breathable Bamboo Hybrid mattress combines the best of all three. Their unique bamboo infused BioCell™ Foam is antibacterial and thermo-regulating, layered on adaptive, orthopaedic grade Ortho-Align Foam™ and seven zones of motion isolating pocket springs. Their hassle free delivery and old mattress collection service means you do not need to lift a finger. Making your bedtime sanctuary as comfortable as possible will give your mind and body the nourishing rest you deserve.Â
Master the art of power naps
Consistent sleep is something of a pipe dream for many new parents, with little ones schedules being so erratic. The good news is there is a way to boost your energy throughout the day on those nights you’ve not got enough shut eye. Allow yourself to tap into the magic of power naps! Even just twenty minutes of rest can give your mental wellbeing a healthy boost, and you do not need to be in deep sleep. When you settle them down for nap time, try and drift off for some rest and relaxation of your own. The humble power nap will sustain your energy and vitality far more than another cup of coffee, just make sure you get yourself set up and comfy. An eye mask and good pillow on the sofa works! Blocking out light and excessive noise will help create the perfect environment to doze-off gently. Giving yourself time to put your feet up is nothing to feel guilty about, it will make you more alert, present and patient when you get back to Mummying!
Fill up on the good stuff
Another thing that can go out the window with the pitter-patter of tiny feet is diet. Though as a new parent, staying well nourished has never been so important. If you’ve not been managing your five a day since becoming a Mum, you are not alone. Up to 50% of parents worry they are not getting the nutrition they need in those first six months. Filling the fridge with healthy wholesome food- your fruits, veggies and wholegrains will give your immune system the boost it needs to thrive and make up for any rest you are missing out on. Doing an online shop or asking friends and family to help out if that’s an option can be a massive help. After all parenting is all about teamwork, and filling up on the good stuff will give you the energy to make the most of every precious moment.Â
The long term effects of lack of sleep can take its toll on your emotional wellbeing. If you feel you are struggling, do reach out whether it’s to support groups or your loved ones. Remember your rest is a priority. And while your little one’s needs will always come first, to be the best parent you can be- It’s essential you take care of yourself.Â
For more information, check our Panda London website.
