How This Dietitian (And First-Time Mama) Makes Time For Mental Wellness Every Day

Here are a few ways that I make time for mental wellness every day:

I’m a registered dietitian; you had to know that food would be on the list. Starting with breakfast first thing in the morning, I stay fueled and hydrated with nutrient-rich foods that make my body feel good. Eating regularly (especially high-quality carbs) helps keep my blood sugar stable, and in turn it keeps my mood stable. Blood sugar spikes and dips cause irritability and moodiness, so keeping my blood sugar steady with enough food is key.

I currently take New Chapter Perfect Postnatal™ multivitamin to support my needs in this stage of life, but for women who aren’t quite in the baby-making years, New Chapter Every Woman™’s One Daily is perfect. New Chapter’s multivitamins are made with whole food and herbs instead of just synthetic forms of vitamins and minerals, and their fermentation process ensures that the nutrients are active and readily available for your body to absorb and digest, even on an empty stomach.

Honoring my body’s cravings keeps me from obsessing over food and feeling anxious over foods that at one time I might have labeled “off limits.” When you know that you can have any food at any time, it makes it easier to listen to what your body actually needs in the moment, whether that’s a cookie or a salad, taking all the feelings of guilt and anxiety out of the equation. That leaves much more space in your mind for other, more important things.

This one is much easier said than done with a baby in the house, but I always try to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night. When my daughter was waking up 2 to 3 times a night, I went to bed extra early to make sure I got enough rest, even if that meant I was letting the laundry pile up. Now that she’s sleeping all night, it’s easier to recharge with a good night’s sleep and feel mentally clear during the day.

I try to take at least an hour for myself every day, whether it’s yoga, a spin class, reading a book, or taking a bath. It’s hard to carve that time out sometimes, but I’m a better mom and wife when I also take care of my own needs.

No matter what the condition is, sitting around questioning your symptoms and the best treatment option is just going to make you more stressed and anxious. Just go to the doctor. 

There’s something about nature that’s just so soothing. Seeing the sun and breathing fresh air always lifts my mood instantly. I try to get outside every day that the weather allows, whether it’s taking the baby on a walk or going out to the backyard to play with our dogs. 

Just like everything else on the list. Not everyone is going to need medication to resolve their mental health woes, but after managing my depression and anxiety for over 10 years, I’ve learned that for me, medication and regular visits to my therapist are just as important as eating well and moving my body to stay healthy. When I’m feeling good mentally, I am able to care for my family better and enjoy motherhood more fully.