How many of us mothers have gotten this advice? Is it realistic? Does it work?
Well, I guess each and every experience is different for every mom, but I can say it never worked me.
During my maternity leave for my first boy, I was at my grandmother's house and in as much as I wanted to 'sleep when the baby sleeps', there was just a lot to do, and it was just not always possible. Yes, maybe I could get one nap in the day but that was also not enough.
How can a new mom, or any mom with kids who still don't get a full night's sleep get some much-needed rest?
Create a sleep routine for yourself and the kids.
Sleep hygiene - avoiding caffeine, using electronics before bedtime, or any other activities that would stimulate you.
Relaxation techniques before bedtime, stretches or some deep breathing exercises.
Try preparing everything that would be needed for the baby feeds just before bedtime, if you are bottle feeding prepare the bottles and store them in the fridge.
If you are breastfeeding, express your breastmilk in bottles so that your partner or family member can assist you with the feeds at night. Instead of waking up each time for feeds
Ask for help with doing chores, helper who can be there during the day to assist with laundry, preparing meals and cleaning the house so that you can rest.
When you are tired and feeling run down, ASK FOR HELP! DON'T TRY TO BE SUPERWOMAN, there's no noble prize for that.