Working celebrity mum Victoria Beckham has recently hit out at reports that she looks gaunt and run down by saying that she is not getting enough sleep because of baby Harper, and is tired like other working mums.
A new baby in the house will always require more attention, which inevitably means less sleep for already tired mums. Add working into the mix, and you can be walking around like you have pins in your eyes with, with a face like thunder and a harsh tongue!
So, how can working mums combat tiredness? Here are some basic tips:
1. Get outside
Exercise not only helps get you back into shape, but helps to increase the amount of oxygen a reaches your brain, which improves your cognitive skills (i.e. helps with so-called “baby brain”). It also makes your brain release endorphins, which can help prevent depression, and give you a boost of energy and general feelings of happiness.
While the gym may be out of the question for many mums – especially in the early days – even a walk around the block with baby in toe will help. Try strolling to the shops instead of taking the car, and see the difference.
2. Nature’s way
Use essential oils, such as lavender, rosemary and peppermint around your home – they have stimulating and refreshing qualities. Try adding about 10 drops of your preferred essential oil into your bath and relax in it for at least 15 minutes. Your can also put a few drops of essential oils on a handkerchief and breathe in the scent.
3. What goes in is what comes out
you’ve heard it a million times, but a healthy and balanced diet will go a long way to boost your energy levels. Keep your blood sugar levels stable, by not skipping meals, and try to avoid sugary foods.
Also, eating complex carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, will provide you with a variety of minerals, vitamins and fibre that are fuel for your body. You can also take a vitamin supplement if your doctor recommends it.
4. Get more sleep
Try to sleep at least eight hours every night – easier said than done if you have other children, or a baby with colic, but that’s the time to get your spouse or partner to help out. Inadequate sleep can result in both physical and mental tiredness, which leaves you with an insufficient amount of energy to get you through the day. If you can get enough sleep, your mind and body is not given the opportunity to recharge.
If you’re a single mum, call in favours – get friends and relatives to help you out one or two nights a week so you can can up on your sleep. If you don’t have anyone close to you to call on, try getting a other’s help for one or two nights – they cost far less than a nanny and will be money well spent!
