A New Mommy's Guide to Pampering Herself

Being home with a new baby can be rewarding and special, but also overwhelming at times. Don't forget to pamper yourself and take care of yourself as well as the baby. Just a few minutes each day to do something just for you is important, and very much deserving! Here are some ideas for a new mom to try:

When the baby is napping, take a long soak in a fragrant bath! Add some candles and low music to add to the "spa" like atmosphere you deserve! ( tip-- have the baby monitor nearby so you won't worry about not hearing the baby). New mommies deserve soft skin too!

Order dinner in one night. This could be simple like pizza, or if you want to indulge a bit more try a delivery service that will pick up your favorite meal from a nearby restaurant. Check online to find a delivery service in your area. Being a new mommy often leaves little time and energy for cooking!

Do a mini-facial on yourself. Use a facial scrub to cleanse your face. Put a warm wash cloth over your face for a few minutes. Then indulge in a moisturing face mask while relaxing puffiness around the eyes with cooled off tea bags or sliced cooled cucumbers. Wash your face with lukewarm water, apply moisturizer, and breathe deeply! Take a gander in the mirror at the new and improved mommy looking back at you.

Brew yourself a favorite cup of tea. An herbal blend will help with tension. Put your feet up for a few minutes and enjoy! If you have special plates/cups pamper yourself by using them for your tea break.

Find a few minutes each day to do some stretches and a few sit-ups. You do not have to feel like you need a complete exercise regimen..just a 5-10 minute routine will hhelp you feel better physically and emotionally. When baby is big enough, you can do some exercising with baby.

Bring some fresh flowers into your bedroom. Buy some inexpensive ones at the grocery store or if you have a garden, cut some and bring them in.

Give yourself a pedicure! Time may be limited with a new baby, so opt for a pedicure instead of a manicure if you can only fit one in to your schedule. It is relaxing and pampering, even if you do it yourself. If you can afford it, and have a reliable babysitter for an hour or so, splurge and get a professional pedicure...it will feel like heaven!

Take a few minutes every day to read some of your favorite book. Early in the morning, during baby's naptime in bed at night before falling asleep.....just a chapter will make you feel like you are doing something for you. Read the newspaper even just perusing the headlines will help you feel in touch with current events.

Finally, make a list of things that you really want to accomplish. Be it line the kitchen shelves, clean out a closet, hang some pictures, work on a scrap book, whatever is "bugging" you, put down on your list. Pick one item at a time, and each day take a step towards completing that goal. The feeling of accomplising a goal will definetly give your spirits a boost!