As a sleep consultant, I work with clients to help their child sleep. As a result they end up sleeping more, feeling rested and having a much happier family life. But what happens if you aren’t quite ready to work with me? In this blog I share 5 ways to help you cope with sleep deprivation.
I believe that coping with sleep deprivation effects so much more than how you feel physically. It affects your mental health, how you perceive yourself and your ability to stay calm, rational and secure in your own skin. “
Cara Treadwell – Sleepy Lambs Sleep Consultant
So how can you look after yourself and start coping with sleep deprivation?
Rediscover what you loved as a child
Write a list of all the things you loved doing as a child. This method alone has helped me start to find a bit of my old self, I loved riding a bike, being in the garden and spending time with my family. I also loved learning about classical history, music videos and shopping! Whatever you loved doing at school or on the weekends, write it down. Then pick one or two things you can try. For example, I get out in the garden with the children now or used to go for a walk with my son in the sling. I also started to listen to podcasts about ancient Rome.
Rediscovering something you love can take your focus away from the sleep deprivation and a baby that won’t nap. It shifts your focus to a more positive space.
Exercise 10 minutes a day
I get it, this can feel hard and if you spend most of your time at home, it can be a struggle. YouTube has some amazing classes plus there are a host of incredible experts over on The Mother Hive Facebook Group who have short videos and channels you can tap into. Workout in your leggings, it doesn’t matter but try and move. Yoga, pilates, cardio, a walk. It is something for you and that is the most important thing!
(always check with your GP before you start exercising postnatally)
Listen to the radio
I have found the house a less lonely place to be when I am listening to music. You can access so many unusual stations (especially if you are a Country music fan like me!). Podcasts are also an amazing invention with 1000’s of different subjects, you can tap into an old passion and take yourself away from the daily grind.
Go child free to the supermarket
Going out in the evening or for the day can feel like a step too far and actually by the evening you might just want to sit on the sofa and relax. Write a short list (make it up if you have too), and pop to the shop baby free. Just getting out for 30 minutes and going somewhere busy can make you feel refreshed.
Have a bath or shower IN THE DAY
There is nothing better than having a bath in the middle of the day. Everyone else is at work and you are just unwinding with a bubble bath at 12pm on a Monday. A little self care can go so far. Put on some clean clothes, warm bed socks and follow it up with a cup of tea.
If you are looking for more support, book in a free discovery call with me now by clicking at the top of the page.