Just watched a YouTube video that reminded me how great exercise is and I wish I could find time to fit more in around the baby. https://youtu.be/DsVzKCk066g
I read "Spark" (the book mentioned in the video) a few years back… well… listened to it on Audible, while walking to work.
And it was really good. It also explained why I had so much improvement with my anxiety and depression while I walked to work every day. It didn't *fix* the problem, it just made things more manageable.
I kept up all my walking during the pregnancy, up until the last few weeks anyway… when moving AT ALL was too hard…
…and then, the baby was born, and with his arrival all my sleep, exercise, and diet stuff went out the window.
And oh boy did the depression ever come back.
I was in a very dark place right at the start, when I couldn't get any sleep, couldn't eat right, and could barely even get a moment to wash my hair or use the toilet, let alone go for a walk.
Over time, we've been able to get out more and more, as the baby's sleep and nursing has been more predictable. And my mood has lifted with it.
I'm still depressed, but it's a lot better than it was a little over a year ago. And there are things going on that are stressing me as well, like my MIL, and some legal battles.
BUT being able to get out more and get some exercise has made a big difference.
To think of it, it's kind of a pity I didn't have the support I needed to get any exercise right at the start of my baby's life. Nobody else took on responsibility to give me a break of any kind.
Also, kind of related, some people then harp on about how new mums are being lazy and having a 'holiday' at home and should get back to work ASAP
AHHAHA
so they're isolated, eating poorly or not at all, not sleeping, and not exercising, and under fire for being a drain on society, and we wonder why they're depressed
But yeah, what was I saying before I got all off topic?
Oh yeah.
Exercise is good.
I always wonder how much better PPD would be if there was more support for new mothers in general.
Look after the baby and let a new mum go for a walk.
Bring them something nutritious to eat… preferably something they need to do NO PREP to eat (in the early weeks especially). A sandwich is great.
Look after the baby in the middle of the night so they can catch just a little more sleep.
But we don't take care of new mums basic needs enough. We leave them at home alone while everyone moves on.