MamaMagic Milestones Winter 2014 | Page 37

“ When baby came home through the front door you turned into a mother and, somehow, being a lover does not seem that important anymore ” What is the secret to rekindling the romance in your relationship? 1. Be kind to yourself. 2. Sleep when you can. 3. Keep your channels of communication open with your husband. Let him know what your expectations are for each other, and let him know how he can assist you – and vice versa. The biggest passion killer is resentment, so communicate and resolve your problems with each other. 4. Get a “support group” of grannies, aunties, sisters and friends who can look after the baby for you for a couple of hours so that you can have some quality time with your man. 5. Test your stress levels. Log on to www.alimurray.co.za and take the stress test. It is very important to monitor your stress levels regularly. It is vital for you to keep yourself healthy and emotionally well so that you can look after your baby and your family. A happy mom is a happy home. You need to take care of YOU and ask for help when you need it. 6. Your shape – if you can’t hide it decorate it! So you’ve picked up 10 kg and you’ve got a few lumps and bumps. Don’t stress about it. Decorate the bits you don’t like and get on with having fun with your man. The more fun you have, the faster you will lose the weight and the less he will notice the “flaws”. When you are settled in with your baby you can go back to gym and watch what you eat and you will have your figure back in no time. Special note: A man who truly loves his wife and is respectful of her knows that you might be out of shape for a while, but you are no longer just his wife, you are the miracle mother now too, so having a few lumps, bumps and stretch marks is all part of the package. 35 7. Plan for quality time with your man. 8. For the first 3 months of your baby’s life – keep it simple. Even a sandwich and tea by a roaring fire with just time for each other can be great. Or how about having a bath together or holding hands and watching a movie. 9. Later on as your baby gets to about 3 to 4 months, you can plan bigger excursions – a movie, a dinner date, a weekend away. 10. If you find that you are still struggling with your libido after 6 months and that you and your hubby are constantly arguing, book a consultation with an expert and get the support and advice you need to have a happy and successful family unit. About the author: Ali Murray is a relationship consultant, mentor and professional speaker who is dedicated to assisting people with their interpersonal relationships. Visit www.alimurray.co.za to read more of her articles and find out when her next public talk will be. years old! Studies have shown that when your baby gets to about the age of 3 you are going to start feeling like you have your life back again. This is normally when you will fall pregnant with baby number 2 or 3!