Having a baby is not only physically tough but mentally and emotionally draining too. Today I’m sharing with you four things I’ve done to help make the rough days a little more bearable.
Last week my baby girl turned 7 months old. I don’t know how it happened because it seriously feels like we just brought her home yesterday. While the better part of a year has flown by, there have been days when it felt like that day would never end. From a fussy baby to my hormones being all over the place, there were many times I felt like I could not go on another day.
It wasn’t until Mahle was about 4 months old that I realized I has postpartum depression. I thought since I hadn’t experienced depression before with my boys I wouldn’t have it with Mahle but I was wrong. I have learned through talking with my doctor and over time there are things I can do to be happy when I feel depression start creeping in. Before I share with you I have to tell you I am not a doctor and you should consult with your doctor first if ever you feel like you are hopeless, depressed or sad. 
1. Get outside. I don’t know what it is about the outdoors but when I feel stressed and out of control I can step outside and almost instantly I feel better. It’s not always 100% better but just going for a walk around the neighborhood makes it feel like a huge weight has been lifted.
2. Play on a playground. This one really surprised me but one day when I was feeling really stressed, like I had no control over anything, I took my kids to our neighborhood park. We all needed to get outside and the walk to the park helped Mahle fall asleep. I went and sat on the swing and started swinging. It was like I was a kid again and the stresses of being a mom were lifted. I then played tag with my boys and ran around the playground. By the time we were done I was exhausted, but in a good way. I felt happy, refreshed and ready to handle anything the rest of the day brought to me.
3. Cuddle your baby. For me, a big part of why I was (and still am some days) depressed is I have an extremely needy baby. There was a long time where the only time she would sleep was if I was holding her. Still she is a very much a mama’s girl. So why would holding my baby make me feel better?! There is just something about a happy, smiley baby that just makes everything better. So when Mahle is in a cuddly mood I take advantage of it and it always makes me feel better.
4. Get dressed for the day. This one is one I need to do more often. It’s so easy as moms if we aren’t leaving the house to just hang out in yesterday’s leggings and whatever shirt is easiest to nurse in. But I feel so much better when I can shower (and sometimes it’s not until noon), get ready and get dressed. Comfort is more important than looking good at this point but I’ve found a shirt that is both comfortable AND looks good.
The Be Series Graphic Tees from Cents Of Style are not only super cute but they are super comfy too. They fit loose so it makes me not so self conscious about that mom pouch that I have. Plus they are easy to nurse with too. I love this Be Happy shirt because it’s a good reminder for me to smile and be happy with this beautiful life that I have. Now through Sunday 4/30 you can get your “BE” shirts for HALF PRICE! Use code BESTORY to get yours for just $15.95 and FREE shipping.
Being a mom is the hardest job you will ever have; especially when you have a baby. I’ve found that doing these four things when times get stressful really helps me feel better and be happy. What do you do to feel happy when you are stressed?
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