How to Prepare for Postpartum: Tips and Encouragement from a 3rd Time Mama

Jan 11, 2025 | Mental Wellness

How to Prepare for Postpartum: Tips and Encouragement from a 3rd Time Mama

When I was pregnant with my first, I wish I had thought more (or at all!) about my postpartum body before I found myself face to face with it. We spend so much time learning about pregnancy, newborns, and sleep schedules, but not nearly enough understanding the immediate changes and needs in the postpartum period. Mentally preparing for postpartum can help ease the transition into motherhood and the emotional challenges that come with it. Here are some of my favorite strategies to help prepare mentally for postpartum:

Understand the Changes: Acknowledge that postpartum recovery involves both physical and emotional changes. Your body will undergo significant changes, and your emotions may fluctuate due to hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and new responsibilities. 

Set Realistic Expectations: Accept that things may not go according to plan. While it can be helpful to think through how you’ll approach feeding, sleep, or your new routine, flexibility and setting realistic expectations can ease feelings of disappointment or frustration when you need to pivot.

Plan for Support: Surround yourself with a support system of family and friends or consider a postpartum doula. Determine what kind of help you need, set boundaries that work for you, and don’t hesitate to lean on those who care about you. Knowing that support is available can help you feel less isolated and better equipped to handle the challenges of life with a newborn. 

Learn About Postpartum Mental Health: Educate yourself on postpartum depression (PPD), anxiety, and other mental health challenges that can occur after childbirth. Talk to your doctor to learn more about the resources available to you.

Create a Self-Care Routine: While self-care may seem difficult with a newborn, it’s important to make time for yourself. Your routine can be as simple as taking a walk, doing deep breathing, or asking someone to watch the baby while you rest or take a shower. Small acts of self-care can help you recharge and manage stress.

Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management: Engage in stress-relieving activities like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga before and after baby comes. These practices can help you stay grounded and focused through difficult days (and nights) postpartum. Talk to your doctor about safe and effective techniques that could work for you.

Set Boundaries: Establish boundaries with visitors or family members, especially in the early weeks, to preserve your energy and prioritize your healing. Don’t be afraid to say “no” to visitors or social obligations if you need rest or space.

Prepare for the Reality of Sleep Deprivation: Sleep deprivation is common in the early postpartum period. Plan for ways to manage fatigue, like taking naps when the baby naps or asking your partner to help with nighttime feedings.

Communicate with Your Partner: Talk to your partner about your expectations, needs, and any concerns you may have. Open communication can help ensure you’re both on the same page and ready to share the responsibilities that come with parenthood.

Give Yourself Grace: Remember that postpartum is a time of adjustment, and it’s okay not to have everything together. Allow yourself grace as you learn to navigate this new phase of life.

Download Mama Mode: I created and designed Mama Mode as a mom in the thick of raising littles, seeking to equip other new, soon-to-be, and seasoned mamas with the tools and features to lighten the mental load. Get organized with checklists and reminders, care for yourself with meditations and journaling, build your support system with chore distribution and so. Much. More. Try the app with a 7-day free trial and see the difference it can make for you in any stage of motherhood.

By acknowledging the changes and challenges that come with postpartum, building a support network, and prioritizing your wellbeing, you can better prepare for the transition as you adjust to life with your new baby – and life as a new mom!

MAMA MODE | JAN 10, 2025 | MENTAL WELLNESS

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New Year, New Intentions: Cheers to 2025!

Jan 1, 2025 | Mental Wellness

New Year, New Intentions: Cheers to 2025!

If you’ve been watching TV, listening to the news, or scrolling on social media, you’ve likely heard the same old call to make big changes in the new year. The start of the year often brings the pressure to reinvent ourselves, set lofty goals, or commit to sweeping resolutions. But as moms, our obligations only seem to pile up with the end of school breaks and the return to work and daily routines. Ready to bid farewell to the ‘new year, new resolution’ hype? Join the Mama Mode community as we pivot to a ‘new year, new intentions’ mindset.

Why Intentions Over Resolutions?

Resolutions often feel like ultimatums: “Lose the baby weight,” “Wake up earlier,” or “Finally get organized.” They can quickly turn into a source of guilt when met with setbacks, rather than opportunities for growth.

By contrast, intentions are about direction rather than destination. They help you focus on how you want to feel and what you value, rather than just ticking off boxes. Setting intentions rather than resolutions allows us to make sustainable changes that last beyond the first few weeks of the year.

How to Set Intentions as a Mom

Start With Reflection
Take a moment to think about the past year. What brought you joy? What moments made you feel grounded or connected? Which ones drained your energy? Use these reflections as a guide to shape your intentions. If you’ve been journaling with Mama Mode, this would be a great opportunity to read through some of your entries from 2024.


Example: If you loved the rare moments of quiet during nap time, your intention might be to carve out more peaceful pauses for yourself in the new year.

Think Small, Think Gentle
Intentions don’t need to be grand or life-changing. They should feel doable, even on your hardest days.
Examples:

“I will listen to my body and rest when I need to.”

“I will take five minutes each morning to center myself.”

“I will connect with my kids through laughter.”

Focus on Feelings, Not Outcomes
Instead of aiming for a specific accomplishment, think about how you want to feel. Do you want to feel calmer? More present? Less overwhelmed? Let those feelings guide your actions.

Example: If you want to feel more connected to yourself, your intention might be to journal once a week or take a solo walk.

Keep It Visible
Write your intentions down and place them somewhere you’ll see often—a sticky note on your mirror, a whiteboard in your office, or in the routines section of the Mama Mode app.

Be Flexible
Life as a mom is unpredictable. Some weeks you might crush your intentions; other weeks, they may move to the back burner. That’s okay. Remind yourself that intentions are guideposts, not rules.

Intentions to Inspire You

For Self-Care: “I will treat myself with the same kindness I show my children.”

For Connection: “I will spend more time savoring the little moments with my family.”

For Growth: “I will give myself permission to try new things, even if they’re imperfect.”

For Rest: “I will let go of guilt when I take time for myself.”

Supporting Each Other in the New Year

As moms, we thrive when we feel supported and we’ve woven this philosophy into every feature of the Mama Mode app. Share your intentions with a fellow mom friend, or better yet, create a little accountability group where you can cheer each other on. This isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up for yourself and your family in a way that feels good. And if you’d rather go all-in on resolutions? Go for it! There’s no one way to approach the new year.

But if you’re looking for a gentle reminder, this is it. You don’t need a new year to be a “new you.” You are already enough, just as you are. Let’s make 2025 a year of grace, joy, and small steps toward what truly matters most to you. 

After the ball drops this year and we sing along to auld lang syne, we’re choosing to usher in 2025 with a positive mindset and an open heart, and we’re cheering you on every step of the way. You’ve got this, mama. Happy New Year!

MAMA MODE | JAN 01, 2025 | MENTAL WELLNESS

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The Perfect Baby Shower Gift: A Postpartum Care Kit for the Mom-to-Be

Dec 15, 2024 | Product Guide

The Perfect Baby Shower Gift:

A Postpartum Care Kit for the Mom-to-Be

Between the burp cloths, bouncers, bottles, and baby wipes, have you ever considered that the perfect baby shower gift is sometimes a gift especially for mom? Since baby showers are often held for first time mamas, it’s so important to ensure mom feels supported for the journey ahead. While the new baby gets plenty of well-deserved love and attention, the postpartum period can be challenging as moms adjust to physical and emotional changes. A thoughtful, practical gift for her can help ease into the first few days at home more comfortably. Enter: the Postpartum Care Kit.

This kit is packed with essentials to help a new mom navigate her postpartum recovery with comfort and care, and can be packaged to fit any baby shower theme. Let’s break down the items that make this gift both thoughtful and incredibly practical.

1. Silver Nipple Shields

Breastfeeding can be tough on sensitive skin. These reusable shields provide a soothing barrier, promoting healing and offering much-needed relief for sore or cracked nipples.

2. Tucks Witch Hazel Pads

These cooling pads are a postpartum favorite. They’re great for relieving discomfort from hemorrhoids or stitches and can even be layered in pads for extra soothing relief.

3. Overnight Pads or Postpartum Underwear

Postpartum bleeding is part of the recovery process, and these super-absorbent pads ensure the new mom feels secure and comfortable, especially during those first few weeks. Disposable postpartum underwear offers even more coverage for those who prefer it.

4. Period Underwear

Period underwear provides an extra layer of protection without the worry of leaks and, as they’re designed to be washed and worn again and again, can be used after postpartum as well.

5. Colace (Stool Softener)

Postpartum recovery is no joke, and a little help in the bathroom can make a huge difference. Colace gently eases the process, which is especially helpful after childbirth.

6. Dermoplast Pain Relief Spray

This cooling spray provides instant relief for perineal discomfort or stitches after delivery. It’s a postpartum lifesaver for soothing sensitive areas.

7. Tylenol

Pain relief is essential in the postpartum period, and Tylenol is a gentle option for easing aches, cramps, and soreness.

8. Sitz Bath

A sitz bath helps soothe and heal the perineal area after childbirth. Pair it with the postpartum salts below for added comfort and relaxation.

9. Postpartum Salts

These specially formulated salts enhance a sitz bath by promoting healing, reducing swelling, and providing much-needed relaxation.

10. Upside Down Peri Bottle

While a hospital or birth center may provide a basic peri bottle, the upside down peri bottle is where it’s at. The angled spout is so much more effective and convenient for new moms.

11. Hydrojug (Large Water Bottle)

Staying hydrated is key for healing and breastfeeding. A large, easy-to-use, and spill-proof water bottle with a handle makes hydration a no-brainer.

Presentation Matters

Further personalize your gift with a calming candle, favorite treats, or a journal to keep track of her thoughts. Neatly arrange these essentials in a decorative basket that can later double as nursery storage, add a handwritten note, and enjoy celebrating the mom-to-be! While the newborn sleepers and swaddles will be put to good use, this gift reminds her that she matters, too.

As with any gift, moms-to-be should talk to their doctor about the best products to use for their specific postpartum needs.

*This post contains affiliate links

MAMA MODE | DEC 15, 2024 | PRODUCT GUIDE

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Making the Holidays Magical for Toddlers: Activities and Ideas They’ll Adore

Nov 27, 2024 | Product Guide

Making the Holidays Magical for Toddlers: Activities and Ideas They’ll Adore

The holiday season is full of wonder, especially for our littles enamored by the magic this time of year brings. From twinkling lights to festive traditions, memory making is in full swing. If you’re excited (or overwhelmed!) by making the holidays magical for toddlers, check out the list below for some seasonal activity inspiration:

1. Indoor Snowball Fights

Who says you need real snow for some friendly competition? Artificial snowballs pack all of the fun without the cold, wet snowball-to-the-face feeling, making them perfect for an impromptu snowball fight inside. Toddlers will love tossing these around, and they double as stress-relievers for grown-ups too!

 

2. Elf on the Shelf

Whether you create elaborate setups daily or opt for simpler, periodic adventures with the Elf, it’s sure to bring home holiday cheer all season long. Place the Elf in creative or mischievous situations and watch as your toddler eagerly searches for their new hiding spot.

 

3. Seasonal Yoto Cards or Tonies Characters

Share screen-free holiday joy through stories and songs with a Toniebox or Yoto audio player. After the holidays, you can continue to build your audio library all year long with these travel-friendly devices that can be used well into childhood.

 

4. Felt Christmas Tree

Toddlers love to touch and explore, so a felt Christmas tree they can decorate themselves allows for independence and creativity without the risks of fragile ornaments. If you choose to make the tree yourself, you can further personalize the experience with decorations that will be extra special to your child.

 

5. Holiday and Seasonal Books

Curling up with a good book is a cozy way to wind down during the busy holiday season. Stock up on holiday or winter books like The Mitten or The Snowy Day. These stories provide a great opportunity for bonding and creative conversations. Find more online, in a bookstore, or at your local library.

 

6. Christmas Crafts

Unleash your toddler’s creativity with simple Christmas crafts. Ideas include decorating paper ornaments, making handprint reindeer, or assembling construction paper wreaths. These crafts double as keepsakes to treasure or gifts for loved ones.

 

7. Snowflake Window Clings

Let your toddler help decorate by sticking snowflake window clings to your windows. It’s a mess-free activity that’s easy for little hands and adds a festive touch to your home. For older children, try crafting intricate designs with paper snowflakes and hang them indoors to celebrate the season.

 

8. Advent Calendars

Counting down to Christmas becomes an adventure with a toddler-friendly advent calendar. Choose one with small toys, chocolates, or activities behind each door to keep the excitement building all season long.

 

9. DIY Ornaments and Keepsakes

For affordable decorations or gifts, try your hand at DIY ornaments and keepsakes. Salt dough handprints, painted wooden shapes, or clear baubles filled with glitter are fun and easy for toddlers to help create.

 

10. Letters to Santa

Help your toddler write a letter to Santa—complete with a wish list and some colorful doodles. Whether you mail it to the North Pole or leave it under the tree, it’s a heartwarming tradition to enjoy together.

Maximize Fun and Minimize Stress: Tips for Making the Holidays Magical for Toddlers

  • Embrace the Mess: Holiday crafts and activities can get messy, but those moments are often the most memorable. Lay down newspaper or an old sheet to make cleaning up easier.
  • Keep It Simple: Toddlers have short attention spans, so don’t overcomplicate activities.
  • Get Involved: Your enthusiasm will make these activities even more magical for your toddler. Choose some that you know you’ll both enjoy together!

The holidays are made more meaningful when we find opportunities to create joy and connection. These activities ensure your toddler experiences the season’s magic in their own way. From snowy indoor adventures to heartfelt traditions, these ideas are sure to make this holiday season one to remember.

*This post contains affiliate links

MAMA MODE | NOV 27, 2024 | PRODUCT GUIDE

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The Power of Meditation for Moms (and How Mama Mode Can Help You Get Started)

Nov 25, 2024 | Meditation

The Power of Meditation for Moms (and How Mama Mode Can Help You Get Started)

Life as a mom is rewarding, but let’s be honest—it can also be nonstop, stressful, and overwhelming at times. Between juggling family schedules, managing household tasks, and trying to carve out a little time for yourself, so many of us feel stretched thin. Including meditation for moms into your routine can be a game-changer for mamas seeking a mindshift.

Meditation offers a simple yet powerful way to slow down, recharge, and find calm in the chaos. And the best part? You don’t need hours of free time or prior experience. Just a few minutes a day can make a huge difference. Mama Mode has made it even easier with custom meditations created specifically for moms. Take a look at some of the benefits of meditation and how Mama Mode can support you along the way.

 

Why Meditation is Great for Moms

  1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
    One of the biggest benefits of meditation is its ability to calm the mind and reduce stress. Studies show that meditation can decrease cortisol levels, helping you feel more relaxed and centered. For moms managing busy personal and professional lives, a quick meditation can be a much-needed break to ease daily pressures and improve overall mood.
  2. Boosts Patience and Mindfulness
    Meditation teaches you to pause, breathe, and be in the moment. These skills can help you respond to situations with more patience—whether that’s navigating a toddler tantrum or dealing with the ups and downs of parenting. Meditation helps you stay present, focused, and less reactive, helping you keep your cool when life gets messy.
  3. Improves Mental Clarity and Focus
    Ever find yourself feeling scattered, forgetful, or distracted? Meditation can help. By focusing on your breath or a simple mantra, you begin to train your brain to concentrate and focus. This mental clarity can make for more confident decision making throughout the day.
  4. Enhances Emotional Resilience
    It feels like every stage of parenthood has incredible highs and difficult lows. Meditation can make it easier to ride the waves and enjoy more of the journey. Practicing meditation can build emotional resilience and provide a sense of inner peace.
  5. Better Sleep Quality
    When babies are teething and big kids are cutting it close to curfew, sleep can be hard to come by. Meditation can help you relax before bed and promote better quality sleep. A calm mind promotes deeper rest, so you’ll wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to take on the day.

How Mama Mode’s Custom Meditations Support Moms

Created by a mom for every mom, Mama Mode’s features help to support and manage the mental load. Tailored meditations in the Mama Mode app were designed with moms in mind. Whether you’re looking to start your day with a clear head, release stress, or wind down at night, Mama Mode’s meditations can help you to exhale.

What Makes Mama Mode’s Meditations Different:

  • Created for Mom Life: Each meditation in the Mama Mode app is crafted to address the specific needs of moms, from morning reset meditations to evening reflections. You’ll find guidance that fits your schedule and speaks to what you’re going through.
  • Short and Effective Sessions: We know moms don’t typically have lots of time to spare, so Mama Mode’s meditations are short and powerful. Even in just 5-10 minutes, you can enjoy the benefits of a focused meditation session.
  • Guided Meditations for Beginners: If you’re new to meditation, Mama Mode’s guided sessions will walk you through every step.
  • Flexible Timing: Whether you need a quick midday reset or a calming evening practice, Mama Mode has options for different times of day. Choose a meditation based on your needs and start creating a mindful habit that works with your lifestyle.

Meditations for Moms as a Daily Habit

Mama Mode’s short, powerful meditations are the perfect way to create a new, healthy habit. Here are some tips to help you integrate meditation into your daily life:

  • Start Small: Begin with just a few minutes each day. Even a short meditation can make a difference in your mindset. Mama Mode’s meditations are designed to fit seamlessly into your schedule, so you can start small and build up as you’re ready.
  • Choose a Regular Time: To make meditation part of your routine, try to stick to a consistent time, like first thing in the morning or just before bed. Anchoring meditation to a specific time of day can make it easier to build the habit.
  • Let Go of Perfection: Meditation is about progress, not perfection. Don’t worry if your mind wanders or if you miss a day. What matters is that you come back to the practice and enjoy the moments you have.
  • Use Mama Mode’s Reminders: With Mama Mode, you can set gentle reminders to meditate every day. A little nudge can help you remember to take those few minutes for yourself- we promise it’s worth it!

Meditation can be a transformative practice for moms looking for a little more peace, clarity, and relaxation day to day. And with Mama Mode’s custom meditations, you have the support you need to make meditation a permanent part of your routine.

Ready to start your meditation journey? Download Mama Mode and discover how a few minutes of daily meditation can help you feel more balanced, present, and joyful in your journey as a mom.

MAMA MODE | NOV 25, 2024 | MEDITATION

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