Chiropractic Tips: Parents With Newborns
By Stephen R. Farris
I recently became a grandfather for the tenth time. We visited the hospital where my son and daughter-in-law were expecting their daughter to enter the world. It was the midnight hour was creeping upon us, so we naturally figured she would end up making her appearance the next day. So my ex-wife, her husband and a few of my other grandchildren decided we'd head back home for the evening since the doctors said it may be well into the next day before she arrives.
We all made plans to return the next day to wait for her arrival. Naturally, no sooner than I was dropped off at my apartment, my son sends me a text and a picture of my sweet, precious granddaughter. Of course we would have liked to have been there to offer our support. All the same, we're glad she made it safely into the world and into our lives.
Since this is the fall/winter, my son and I have enjoyed Sunday afternoons -- and the occasional Monday and Thursday nights -- watching our favorite football team play. It's sort of has become a ritual. Our tradition you might say. But I knew that once she was born it would change to a degree and I was fine with that. After all, I've been through what he's about to go through a few times having fathered three children of my own.
Dealing with newborns can also make life a bit stressful, especially on our bodies when we don't get the rest we're accustomed to. This can lead to fatigue and low energy levels, but there are ways to lessen those factors.
Power Naps
With a newborn, parents have to make adjustments. One of those is to overcome the lack of sleep. Since our sleep time is subject to be out of kilter, parents should try to incorporate power naps to offset their fatigue. Maybe a 10- to 15-minute power nap is just what you need to give you a quick energy boost and it can be done periodically throughout the day and/or night.
Eat Less
Heavy meals, such as those eaten normally three times a day, can make us drowsy and unenergetic. So in order to reduce this effect, eat smaller meals packed with nutrients and minerals that help keep your energy levels up.
Talk With Your Chiropractor
Keep your chiropractor informed about any stress you might be experiencing, especially if you have a new addition to your family. They can offer advice or suggestions that may help you.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Azusa,Calif.