One of my dearest friends just had her first baby.  Whenever I ask her how things are going, she always says “I’m so tired!”  It’s not surprising since a baby usually wakes up every two to four hours to eat.  I can only imagine how exhausting it must be!

For those new moms out there, it’s important to take care of yourself as well as your baby.  One of the best things you can do is to GET SOME SLEEP! 

Deep sleep allows the brain to replenish neurotransmitters that allow the cells of the nervous system to communicate with one another and with the rest of the systems of the body.  Delta- and theta- brain waves are generally accessed only in deep sleep. They trigger the brain to produce beneficial hormones like melatonin, growth hormone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and sex hormones.  Here are a few tips for those exhausted new moms: 

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help.  People are usually more than willing to hold, play with and fuss over babies.  They’re just so darn cute!

• Sleep whenever you can.  If the baby is sleeping, take the opportunity to take a nap yourself.  It might be two months before you can sleep for longer periods of time.

• Go to bed earlier.  If you’re used to going to bed late, you may need to adjust your bed time earlier, like around 8:30 or 9:00 pm.  You may miss some of your favorite shows or cleaning the kitchen, but that’s ok.  Rest is more important.

• Exercise daily.  You don’t have to train for a marathon!  Go for a walk if possible.  Put the baby in a stroller and walk outside.  If it’s too cold outside or the weather is not cooperating, try taking a walk around the mall.

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