Parenting {Ergonomically}
Parenting is Physical
There’s no doubt {in most minds anyway} that parenting is one of the most taxing and gruelling physical tasks ever known. Even professional athletes have a difficult time keeping up with their toddlers- and it’s no wonder! They never stop, nor do they even walk to the next place, but rather run. That’s why most parents drop from fatigue when their little ones go down for bed. We’re just too old.
Practicing Ergonomics During & After Pregnancy
In all seriousness, parenting is incredibly rewarding, but you have to be up to the task. There are tons of resources out there for parenting with purpose and intention, and even some with tips and strategies for developing milestones and dealing with set-backs. However, there is precious little about taking care of yourself during pregnancy and the early years of physical parenting. That’s where we come in. Here are some simple, but practical tips for keeping yourself in shape and in good physical condition as a young/new parent.
Tips for Ergonomic Parenting
Stay in shape. While it’s not wise to start a rigorous exercise routine during pregnancy, there’s nothing wrong with taking walks or even light exercise- just be careful to focus on being in shape and not staying in peak performance mode. On that note, be careful to modify any hard impact exercises {such as jump training, running, etc.}.- Sleep wisely. This is no fun for anyone, but as you get bigger with child, make sure you sleep ergonomically with plenty of back support- this usually means avoiding sleeping on your stomach and even on your back. It’s safer to sleep on your side, and you can even use a body pillow for added comfort.
- Practice good ergonomics. Whether you work on a computer or just use it socially, be sure to be diligent ergonomically- as your body takes on the extra weight and strain of a developing baby and all that entails, it’s even easier to strain yourself. If possible, use an ergonomic chair with back support. Ergonomic products are wonderful for pregnant women because of their adjustability, and since they’re constantly changing, it’s great to have products that can match you.
- Use an Ergo Carrier. Once you have the baby, you’re ergonomic concerns are not over. Your body is returning to size, but you still need to safeguard your body. A great find I made with my second baby was an Ergo Carrier- a truly ergonomic way to attachment parent {or just take care of your first and ensure that your infant is well-cared for}.
It’s easy to think of ergonomics as a work thing and neglect them elsewhere. However, it’s just as important to practice good ergonomic principles during the very physical stage of early parenting.