Being a new mum is a full-time gig with zero off-switches. You’re on call 24/7, tending to every little need of your tiny human—feeding, rocking, changing nappies, repeat. Somewhere between the midnight feeds and endless laundry cycles, your old self-care rituals (hello, skincare and movie nights) take a backseat. A weekend out with friends? Now it’s every-weekend-in with the family.
But here’s the thing—taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your bub. Your body is doing superhero-level work during pregnancy and postpartum, and it deserves some serious TLC. In fact, science says you need as much as nine hours of sleep while growing a little human (or recovering from the whirlwind of welcoming one). Not that that’s happening, but a mum can dream, right?
So, what better way to show yourself some love this Mother’s Day than by embracing self-care? Whether you’re pregnant, have a newborn, or just need a well-deserved break, self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity!
Ready to hit reset and feel like your best self again? Here are the best self-care practices for new mums that’ll leave you feeling like you just stepped out of a spa (or at least a very chill café with a great playlist). And if you’re a partner, a parent, a sibling, or a friend, you can bookmark this blog and help your loved one have a moment of peace and quiet in her new mum phase of life.
Pregnancy Massage: A Warm Hug for Your Body
Pregnancy is a magical time—your body is growing an actual human, your cravings have reached elite status (pickles and ice cream, anyone?), and suddenly, naps are a non-negotiable part of your schedule. But let’s be real—along with all the excitement, there’s also the not-so-fun side: aching backs, swollen feet, and feeling like you’ve been hit by a sleep-deprivation truck before the baby even arrives.
Enter: pregnancy massage—a self-care essential that feels like wrapping yourself in a warm, tension-melting hug (minus the awkward belly rubs from strangers). Whether you’re in the first trimester or counting down the days to D-day, pregnancy massage can help you feel more comfortable, relaxed, and dare we say—human again.
Benefits of Pregnancy Massage
Besides the fact that it’s pure bliss, pregnancy massage comes with a long list of perks that your body (and mind) will thank you for:
- As your bump grows, your centre of gravity shifts, putting extra strain on your lower back. A good massage helps ease those ouch spots, leaving you feeling lighter (or at least like you could make it through the day without groaning every time you sit down).
- Pregnancy can turn your feet into tough marshmallows thanks to fluid retention. Massage helps boost circulation and reduce swelling, so you can actually recognise your ankles again.
- Growing a tiny human is no small feat, and pregnancy hormones can take you on a wild emotional rollercoaster. Massage helps lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and boost serotonin (the feel-good hormone), meaning you’ll leave your session feeling way calmer.
- If tossing and turning has become your new nighttime regime, a pregnancy massage can help relax your body and improve sleep quality. Because let’s face it—once bub arrives, sleep will be a luxury that you’ll wait to wait ages for.
How Does Pregnancy Massage Work?
No, you won’t be lying flat on your bump like a fluffy pancake. Pregnancy massage is all about comfort and safety, which is why trained therapists use special techniques to keep both you and your baby feeling amazing. Here’s what to expect:
- Side-lying position – You’ll be supported with soft pillows while lying on your side (because tummy-down is a no-go, and back-lying can be uncomfortable). If you have a pregnancy pillow, even better!
- Gentle pressure – Your therapist will use light to moderate pressure that’s similar to Swedish massage to avoid deep tissue work, focusing on soothing strokes to melt away tension.
- Bump-friendly techniques – The goal is to boost circulation, reduce swelling, and ease muscle pain without putting pressure on sensitive areas. You can even suggest focus areas if you have any specific muscle pain.
- Relaxation mode: ON – You might even doze off mid-massage (totally normal, totally encouraged).
The Best Part? Blys Brings the Spa to You
Going to a spa when you’re pregnant can feel like a mission—finding parking, waddling in, and then realising you forgot your pregnancy pillow at home (rookie mistake). That’s where Blys comes in!
With Blys, a qualified pregnancy massage therapist comes straight to your home—so you can enjoy your session in your PJs, with your favourite playlist in the background (and snacks within arm’s reach). No stress, no travel, just pure relaxation.
So whether you’re treating yourself or looking for the perfect Mother’s Day gift for a glowing mum-to-be, a pregnancy massage is the ultimate way to say “You’ve got this, Mum!” 💕 You can even get a Blys gift card and send it her way so she can enjoy an hour (or more) of massage magic on her own time.
Soak It Up! A Relaxing Bath is a Must
What’s better than a bath? A bath filled with relaxing, stress-busting goodness. Light a candle, throw in some bath salts or essential oils (you can totally skip them), and let the warm water work its magic on your muscles and mind. A good soak isn’t just a treat—it’s science-backed self-care. Warm water helps relax tight muscles, improves circulation (perfect for those swollen feet), and even soothes your nervous system, making it easier to sleep.
Whether you’re pregnant or juggling a newborn, you deserve this moment of zen. Bonus points if you bring a good book or your favourite playlist into the mix.
Want to level up relaxation for yourself or a mum you know? Get her bath ready before a professional in-home massage from Blys. Trust us, it’ll be the best “me-time” a new mum will have had all month. Scented candles, some lush bath salts, body care and haircare products can also be a good idea for a Mother’s Day present for the new mum.
Postnatal Yoga: Stretch, Breathe, Repeat
Yoga isn’t just for flexible people — it’s for everyone who needs to stretch out the tension and hit reset. Postnatal yoga is perfect for new mums who want to ease back into movement after childbirth. It’s all about gentle stretches, breathing, and reclaiming your space (and energy). The bonus? It can also help boost your mood and bring back that inner calm.
Take a class or roll out your mat in the living room for some mindful guided stretching. Remember, slow and steady wins the race, and getting that “mom glow” is as much about your mental state as it is about your body! Or if you’re well-past the post-partum phase, but want a good ol’ muscle relaxation, you can book your choice of in-home massage or an assisted stretching session with Blys.
Sleep Like You’ve Never Slept Before
Let’s be real—new mums and uninterrupted sleep go together like babies and clean onesies (spoiler: it’s rare). But here’s the thing—sleep isn’t a luxury, it’s a lifeline. It keeps your energy levels up, your mood in check, and helps you power through the endless nappy changes, feeding sessions, and lullabies on repeat.
The golden rule of new motherhood? Sleep when the baby sleeps. We know—it sounds cliché. And yes, the laundry, dishes, and emails might be calling your name, but guess what? They can wait. Or your partner can help with all the pending chores; trust us, that’s the biggest green flag. Your rest is just as important. Even a 20-minute power nap can do wonders for your mood, focus, and overall sanity.
If you can’t feel the nap life, don’t stress about it—rest is still rest. Try some of these fun ideas:
- Lavender-scented pillows or a sleep mist – Because your brain deserves a calming scent to block out all your worries and anxiety.
- Soft white noise or meditation music – Yup, baby’s not the only one who can benefit from a lullaby. We love some relaxing light rain sound over the speaker. Or even the sound of deep frying chicken, we won’t judge. A super cool idea to gift mum would be a raincloud humidifier that works as a white noise source as well.
- Getting cosy in bed, even if you’re just lying there – Five minutes of stillness counts.
- A light read or journaling – Something soothing to ground yourself and doze off in minutes, not your never-ending to-do list that would trigger more anxiety.
Want to know a secret? The best sleep happens right after a massage. Whether it’s pregnancy massage, or a relaxation massage, the gentle technique melts away tension, soothes your nervous system, and sets you up for the kind of deep rest new mums dream of. And with Blys, you don’t even have to leave your house—professional therapists in your area come straight to you.
Feed Your Body Right
We know how it goes—you’re up at 3 AM rocking your little one back to sleep, and suddenly, you realise you haven’t eaten a proper meal all day. Maybe you grabbed a half-eaten banana off the counter or sipped a cold-brewed tea while folding tiny jumpers, but real nourishment? That’s been on pause since no one knows when.
But here’s the deal: your body is working overtime, whether you’re recovering from pregnancy, breastfeeding, or just surviving on minimal sleep. And just like your baby needs nutrients to grow, you need them to function at your best.
The key to get your fill on nutrition (or treat a mum you know)? Easy, nutrient-packed foods that don’t require a MasterChef or Jamie Oliver level effort. Here’s how you can make healthy eating a no-brainer:
- One-handed snacks – Because most of the time, your other hand is holding a baby. Stock up on things like Greek yoghurt, trail mix, cheese and wholegrain crackers, boiled eggs, and energy bars.
- Smoothies – Blend up some fruit, spinach (you won’t taste it, promise), protein powder (if you want some), and nut butter for an instant energy boost. Plus, you can sip it while rocking bub to sleep.
- Batch cooking & freezer meals – Make a big batch of soups, stews, or pasta sauces when you do have time, and freeze portions for those “I can’t even” days. It can even be a date idea with your partner where they can help you prep food for the week.
- Instant nourishment – Microwavable quinoa, brown rice (no hate for microwaved rice here), and frozen veggies can be thrown together in minutes for a quick, wholesome meal.
Hydration: The Secret Self-Care Hack
Motherhood is basically a full-time endurance sport—minus the medals but with all the sweat and sleepless nights. And just like any athlete (yes, we’re calling you an athlete because keeping up with a newborn is a workout), hydration is key to keeping your energy levels up and your mind clear.
We know, we know—drinking water sounds like the most basic self-care tip, but hear us out. Dehydration can make you feel sluggish, cranky, and even hungrier than you actually are. The fix? Keep a big, easy-to-grab water bottle nearby at all times. And for those who struggle to drink enough, here’s how to level up:
- A straw makes drinking effortless, and when you’re juggling a baby, snacks, and life in general, that’s a game-changer. When you’re a new mum, you realise sippy cups are not just for your children.
- If plain water bores you, add a splash of fun with lemon slices, mint, berries, cucumber, or even a dash of coconut water for a tropical twist. Mocktails and fruity water are your best friend!
- Link your sips to daily tasks (every nappy change = a gulp of water). Before you know it, you’ll be hydrated and in the habit.
That isn’t all. We see you, coffee-loving mums—fuelled by double-shot lattes and sheer willpower. And while caffeine is the unofficial MVP of parenthood, too much of it can leave you more jittery than energised (plus, it’s a sneaky dehydrator). Have we also told that coffee is a no-go for pregnant and new mums? Go for decaf always.
Here’s how to balance the buzz without the burnout:
- Swap one coffee for herbal or fruit tea. Chamomile, peppermint, and rooibos teas are soothing, hydrating, and won’t send you into a caffeine crash. Add in a little honey, and you’re good to go.
- If you still need a gentle boost, matcha has less caffeine than coffee but comes with a side of calm, thanks to its high antioxidant content. There are plenty of matcha latte recipes that are trending right now and you can get started with the easiest one.
- Coconut water results in instant refresh. Full of electrolytes, this is a great way to stay hydrated if you’re feeling extra drained (literally).
Mother’s Day gifting doesn’t have to be boring. A classic Twinings tea set and handcrafted ceramic cups would be a cute little present for the new mum-to-be.
Walk it Out: Fresh Air, Fresh Vibes
When you’re deep in the newborn phase, it’s easy to feel like your house has become your entire world. The laundry pile looks like a mountain, bottles are everywhere, and your idea of “fresh air” is standing by an open fridge door.
But here’s the thing: stepping outside – even for just 10 minutes – can completely shift your mood.
Here’s why walking is the ultimate reset button for mums:
- Fresh air and a little movement give your brain a hit of endorphins (a.k.a. happy hormones). Basically, it’s a free energy boost without the caffeine crash.
- Soaking in some Vitamin D does wonders for your skin, bones, and overall vibe. Plus, it helps regulate your sleep cycle (and we know you need all the sleep help you can get).
- That foggy, sleep-deprived brain? A quick stroll outside helps press the mental reset button, making you feel more like you again.
Curious on how to make this happen with a baby to tend to every minute of the day?
- Pop your child in the stroller or carrier, throw on your comfiest leggings, and make it a mini adventure. Even a lap around the block can do wonders.
- If you are walking alone, turn it into a real break with your favourite music, an audiobook, or a podcast (no Cocomelon allowed). Tell you what, we have our Blys Journal on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcast, iHeart Radio and Castbox, along with YouTube! You can just put on your headphones, listen to our podcast and go about the neighbourhood.
- Grab a fellow mum friend and make it a walking date. Fresh air and a vent session? Self-care level unlocked. (And maybe even a few gossip sessions).
- If you can, head to a park, a walking trail, or anywhere with greenery. There’s a reason why “forest bathing” is a thing – nature has a way of making everything feel lighter.
Meditation & Mindfulness: Take a Moment for YOU
Being a new mum is a non-stop rollercoaster of feeds, nappy changes, and wondering when you last had a hot cup of tea. But amongst the chaos, taking even five minutes for yourself can do wonders for your mental well-being. Enter: meditation and mindfulness.
A few deep breaths can lower cortisol levels (a.k.a. the stress hormone) and instantly make you feel calmer. Sleepless nights and endless to-do lists? Mindfulness helps keep your mind clearer and your patience longer. Plus, whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or just need a moment of peace, meditation is a simple way to reset and recharge.
Not sure where to start? Try the 5-minute rule—close your eyes, focus on your breath, and let your mind unwind. Even a couple of minutes can work wonders. If sitting still isn’t your thing, no worries! Mindfulness can be as simple as sipping your tea slowly (channel your inner sloth, we mean it), stretching for a minute, or taking a deep breath before diving back into mum mode. Try grounding yourself by noticing colours, sounds, smells, objects, and sensations near you.
Motherhood is a beautiful, wild ride, but don’t forget to pause and check in with you. Because when you take care of your mind, you’re even better equipped to take care of your little one. 💛
The Power of Connection: Lean on Your Family & Friends
Yes, you’re a supermum—juggling feeds, nappy changes, and everything in between. But even superheroes need a support squad!
Motherhood can feel isolating at times, especially when you’re knee-deep in baby duties and running on little sleep. That’s why staying connected with your people—whether it’s your best friend, your partner, or a fellow mum who just gets it—is so important. A quick call, a voice note rant, or even a simple “How are you really doing?” text can make all the difference.
And don’t be afraid to ask for help! Whether it’s getting your partner to take over baby duty for an hour while you nap, having a family member drop off dinner, or just venting to a friend who understands, leaning on your village is not a weakness—it’s a lifesaver.
Social connections help reduce stress, boost mental wellbeing, and remind you that you’re not in this alone. So, reach out, schedule that cake date (even if it’s virtual), and let your people lift you up. Motherhood is a wild ride, but with your tribe by your side, it’s a whole lot easier. ❤️
Beauty Treatments: Because You’re Worth It
Being a new mum is a beautiful journey, but let’s be honest—between sleepless nights, endless feeds, and non-stop baby cuddles, your skincare is a long lost thought. Your skin might be feeling a little dull, your hands a little rough from all that bottle-washing, and your hair? Let’s just say dry shampoo has been doing a lot of heavy lifting, and it’s not particularly cute.
That’s where a little beauty TLC comes in! Taking time for even the smallest beauty treatments can be an instant mood booster. Whether it’s a refreshing facial to bring back that pre-baby glow, a mani-pedi to make your hands and feet feel cotton-soft and polished, or a lash and brow touch-up to frame your tired-but-fabulous eyes, beauty treatments aren’t just about looking good—they’re about feeling good too.
The Benefits of Beauty Treatments for New Mums
- Boosts Confidence: A fresh face, polished nails, or neatly groomed brows can make you feel put together even on the most chaotic days.
- Encourages Relaxation: Beauty treatments are more than skin deep—they help you unwind, de-stress, and take a well-earned break.
- Nourishes Skin & Body: Facials help hydrate and rejuvenate tired skin, while a mani-pedi soothes aching hands and feet (because carrying a baby all day is basically a workout).
- Gives You ‘Me-Time’: In the whirlwind of new motherhood, carving out time for yourself—even if it’s just 30 minutes—can make all the difference in your wellbeing.
Mother’s Day Wellness Experiences Brought To You By Blys
We know that the idea of getting dressed, leaving the house, and heading to the spa or the salon can feel like way too much effort when you’re a new mum. That’s why in-home massage and beauty treatments are the ultimate game-changer.
With Blys, you can book professional massage therapists and beauty therapists to come to your home at a time that works for you. No rushing, no waiting, no stress—just pure pampering in the comfort of your own space. So whether it’s a rejuvenating massage to calm your nerves and release the tension in your muscles, a relaxing facial during nap time, a mani-pedi while binge-watching your favourite show, or a pre-Mother’s Day glow-up, self-care has never been easier. You can even give her a Blys gift card starting from just £30 so that she can get her own in-home spa experience with a treatment she’ll love. Want to double up on the treat? Mums can never get enough sheet masks and nail lacquer shades. While you’re at it, you can build a new-mum care basket with her favourite treats, skincare products and scrunchies or headbands she can enjoy after her in-home wellness experience.
