How to Rest and Recharge With a New Baby

Mar 19, 2025

Bringing a baby home is incredibly exciting, but the new responsibilities can also feel like a lot. Here are some simple yet effective tips to help you rest, recharge, and beat fatigue, so you can feel your best while taking care of your little one.

Naptime is prime time

Finding the time to get everything done at home may feel tricky, but rest shouldn't take a backseat. Loading the dishwasher and folding the clothes can wait! Try to get into the rhythm of napping when your baby does. If that’s not always possible, ask your partner or a family member to watch the baby while you get some much-deserved shut-eye. 

Feel free to limit guests 

While visitors often mean well, they can sometimes add more work than support during the early days with your little one. Don’t be shy about setting boundaries around who can visit and when. If you’re not up for the company, it’s okay to say no. When you feel ready for visitors, prioritize family and friends who are willing to help and provide support.   

Eat healthy meals

Eating well and staying hydrated will help your body recover and stay energized. Opt for healthy foods—like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins.

For more nutrition tips, check out this article: Taking Care: Nutrition Tips for Expecting and New Moms.

Go easy on the coffee

The occasional morning coffee may help you feel alert , but try not to rely on caffeine to power through the day. Too much coffee can disrupt your sleep patterns (and your baby’s too, if you’re breastfeeding), so limit your intake to below 300 mg (two to three cups of coffee) per day. If you’re craving a warm drink later in the day, have a nice herbal tea instead!

Add in morning workouts

Looking to start exercising again? Slowly ease into it with low intensity exercise, like taking your baby for a walk. Talk to your doctor before you start working out after giving birth.

Consider sharing feeding responsibilities

Having expressed breast milk or ready-to-feed formula, like Good Start® Plus 1 Ready-to-Feed Baby Formula, can come in super handy when you need a break, want to catch up on uninterrupted sleep, or just need some alone time.

Pro tip: sunshine may help

A dose of sunlight can provide vitamin D, boost your mood, and may also help regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Stroller sessions may offer fresh air, some sunshine, and moderate exercise—great for you and your baby!

Top takeaways

While the first few months can feel challenging, remember that taking care of yourself is good for you and your baby. So, embrace the support around you, eat well, and enjoy guilt-free naps as needed. You deserve it!

 

Government of Canada. Your guide to postpartum health and caring for your baby. Published May 2023. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/child-infant-health/postpartum-health-guide.html