features
isn’t going to be the same but it can
still be awesome, just in a bunch of
new ways. Keep an open mind and be
gentle on yourself. So if you’re feeling
anxious here are some tips to help you
enjoy the summer:
• Go shopping. Whether your body
is a new size, shape or is just
different due to breastfeeding etc,
head out and buy yourself some
clothes that make you feel good.
No need to go and buy a whole
new wardrobe,
but get a few
key pieces that
are lightweight,
flattering and can
take you from pool
to beach to beach
party. Feeling
good is the key
to looking good,
so treat yourself –
you deserve it.
• Get active. Get
out there and get
some exercise, but
make sure you do
it in off-peak hours.
Postpartum skin
can be especially
sensitive to
hyperpigmentation
so avoid direct
sun exposure. But
getting out and
getting active will
boost both your
mind and your body.
• Drink up. No not icy cocktails with
umbrellas, although, if you’re not
breastfeeding you can probably sneak
in one or two. If you are breastfeeding
stay hydrated. Breastfeeding can take
a lot out of you, especially if it’s hot
out. Drink plenty of water or enjoy
hydrating fruits such as watermelon
or blueberries.
• Stay connected. Having a newborn
or young child can be ostracising
and lonely at times. The summer is a
great time to get out and get social.
People tend to gather more during
warm months so there are plenty of
opportunities. Instead of shutting
yourself up all summer, join a baby
group, visit family or catch up for
some adult time with your old friends.
Surround yourself with people that
support you and your lifestyle. Having
a shoulder to lean on, a friend who’s
willing to listen or one that nudges
you to head out for some adventures
can do wonders for your soul.
• Visit the places from your pre-
baby life. Young babies can sleep
almost anywhere especially in the
first few months. Take advantage
of this and get out there, because
it won’t last forever. Newborns are
very portable, no need to leave the
beach for naptime, just find some
shade. And go ahead and spend
the evening at a summer festival.
Stay relaxed about your baby’s
schedule when heading on an
outing. Just snuggle baby up when
they start to snooze and enjoy the
rest of your activity.
• Don’t stress out. Remember babies
are fairly sturdy creatures. They can
go outside, in the car, in the woods,
to the beach. Believe it or not, they
can even go to a fancy restaurant!
They may get a little bit ho