Mumma, love yourself this Valentine's Day

As a Mumma, you’ve got a lot of love to give, sometimes it can be hard to spare some love for yourself and invest time into your own body and wellbeing. You are so incredible and should never forget how far you’ve come and the amazing things you’ve achieved. We suggest you be your own Valentine this year and take some time for some relaxation and self-care.

Here’s a little guide with some self-love suggestions you should try:   

Reading 

There’s nothing more relaxing than curling up with a good book. Whether you’re a fantasy fiend, or a sci-fi fanatic, quietly escaping to a new world for a few hours has the power to reduce stress, promote relaxation and increase creativity, all of which will ultimately help you be the best mum you can be. 

It can also be a good idea to read self-care books to get some tips on how to stay comfortable, calm and happy. At NBS, we have a couple of fantastic self-care books for both mums-to-be, and new mums. Written by Beccy Hands and Alexis Stickland, these handy how-to guides cover everything from sleeping positions, to home remedies, to relaxation and mindfulness tips, as well as everything you need to know to stay sane and smiling throughout your pregnancy and beyond. 

Sleep  

It may seem like an obvious one, but sleep is absolutely crucial for new and expecting parents and their emotional wellbeing. As a parent, sleep deprivation is completely normal, but in some cases, it can increase the risk of postpartum depression. Lack of sleep is also a huge contributor to stress for parents, and it’s possible for your stress to pass to your baby. In short, get some sleep! 

However, we know it’s easier said than done. Sleep can seem like a long-lost love with all the night feeds, stress and general discomfort that comes with being a Mum. This Valentine’s Day, it’s time to catch up on some much-deserved sleep, whether you want to lay in till noon, have a long and luxurious nap, or get an early night, there is no better method of self-care. 

If you need something to help you drift off, why not try our Morphee Sleep Aid. This compact and clever device is the perfect way to relax and fall asleep without looking at a screen. This non-digital sleep aid offers up to 200 combinations of guided meditation sessions, designed tested and validated by sleep experts (yes, sleep expert is a real job!). Thanks to its rechargeable battery, Morphee can operate for up to one week and can even accompany you on the go.  

If you are a new or expecting Mumma, finding that perfect position is the first impossible step to falling asleep. It’s really important that you get the correct support to ensure a long and uninterrupted nap or night's sleep. Here at NBS we have a range of high-quality pregnancy pillows, which are definitely an essential item for Mums.  

The bbhugme Pregnancy Pillow in Dusty Pink is super soft and designed to adjust and grow with you throughout your pregnancy. It will help you find the right shape and firmness to support your body as it changes, to help you sleep like a baby.  

Hot bath 

There’s nothing more soothing than soaking in a hot bubble bath, lighting a few candles and just allowing yourself to relax completely. A warm bath is also a perfect way to set yourself up for a good night’s sleep. Your body temperature rises while you’re in the bath and then will cool down again once you’re out which promotes relaxation. A hot bath is a great place to practice some mindfulness and deep breathing. Run yourself a hot bubble bath this Valentine’s Day and take some time to relax.  

Make sure that if you are adding anything to your bath, you use oils and products that are safe for pregnant women. Here’s a list of just a few essential oils that have many physical and psychological benefits and that are safe for pregnancy: 

• Lavender – calming and relaxing, helps sleep 
• Rose or rosewood – anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety 
• German or Roman chamomile – reduces stress 
• Peppermint – clears sinuses and reduces headaches 
• Neroli – calming and soothing 

Skincare 

All of your old routines will change drastically when you have a baby, this includes your skincare routine. For some, what was once a well-thought out, 20-minute-long skincare routine involving moisturising, exfoliating and cleansing, is now a 10 second quick face wash once a day. Sometimes when you look your best, you feel your best, so this V Day it’s time to show your skin some attention to leave yourself feeling glowy and relaxed.  

The Green People Wildly Kind Organic Scent-Free Skin Care Duo is a stunning skin set that has the power to restore your skin and heal both your skin and mind. Organic and eco-friendly, we would highly recommend this skincare set for your perfect galantines pampering.  

It’s not just the skin on your face that might need a little TLC, a mother’s hands are always hard at work, and deserve a little care too. The Green People Fresh and Wild Hand Cream Mandarin smells delicious and, when massaged into hands, nourishes and moisturises the skin leaving your hands feeling as soft as your little one’s. 

Self-care is so important for the body and mind, especially as a Mum when everything is constantly changing. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show yourself some love and investing time into your own wellbeing. Try out some of our suggestions above and leave yourself feeling relaxed and nourished, and let all those positive and soothing vibes pass onto your little cherub. 

If you’re looking for some adorable Valentine’s themed items for your little one, check out our hearts & flowers collection for all things pink and filled with love.