As you dive headfirst into the magical whirlwind of motherhood, let's take a moment to peek into the secrets of our French counterparts and how they gracefully tackle the postpartum phase.
Spoiler alert: it involves a dash of finesse, a dollop of self-care, and a whole lot of delicious food!
So, grab your favorite hot drink, and let's explore the art of postpartum, à la française.
Here are a few ways that French moms navigate the postpartum period.
We hope you find a little inspiration here to take those early days with your bundle of joy a little slower.
Embracing "slow parenting"
In the fast-paced world of parenting advice and mommy blogs, the French have a knack for embracing "slow parenting."
This doesn't mean slacking off; it means relishing the moment, savoring the cuddles, and allowing both you and your little one the time you need to adjust. Take a cue from the French and let go of the pressure to have it all figured out right away. Your journey is uniquely yours, and that's exactly how it should be.
Self-care is not selfish
One striking difference in the French approach is their unapologetic emphasis on self-care.
Picture this: a relaxing bubble bath, a good book, and a couple of yummy snacks. French moms understand that taking care of yourself isn't selfish; it's a necessity. So, go ahead, schedule that spa day, ask for help when you need it, and don't forget to treat yourself – you deserve it!
Culinary delights for the soul
Ah, the French and their culinary prowess!
While we might be tempted to survive on drive-thru and takeout, our French friends know the therapeutic power of a homemade meal. Channel your inner Julia Child (or at least Pinterest) and bulk-prepare some simple, nutritious dishes that will last you for a few days.
Your taste buds and your postpartum body will thank you!
Le co-sleeping
Unlike the American culture that often encourages babies to sleep in their cribs from day one, the French are known for embracing the concept of "le co-sleeping."
It's not about caving into every whimper but rather creating a comforting and secure environment for both mom and baby where you can both get some rest. So, if the crib isn't working for you, don't hesitate to bring your little one into your sanctuary – just be sure to do so safely.
Fresh air!
French moms understand the healing power of fresh air.
Whether it's a leisurely stroll in the park or sitting on a balcony, the French know that a breath of fresh air can work wonders for your mood and well-being. So, slip on those comfy shoes, wrap your little one in a cozy blanket, and head outdoors.
Final thoughts
As we embark on this incredible journey of motherhood, let's take a moment to draw inspiration from our French counterparts.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all manual for parenting, and it's perfectly okay to carve your own path. So, here's to savoring the joyous chaos, relishing the messy moments, and embracing the beauty of postpartum, one diaper change at a time. You've got this, mama!