While you get used to taking care of your new baby, don’t forget to pamper yourself. Here’s how:

1. Catch some z’s. Because you’re bound to be up with feedings at night, try to grab a nap during the day, while your baby is sleeping.
2. Ask for assistance. Let friends and family members help you with chores.
3. Eat healthy. To conquer constipation—a common after-pregnancy complaint—drink plenty of water and other non-caffeinated fluids. In addition, choose high-fiber, whole-grain breads and cereals and eat fresh fruits and vegetables.
4. Get moving. Return to your exercise routine as soon as your doctor gives the green light. In addition to relieving constipation, aerobic exercise, such as walking or biking, can melt away those pregnancy pounds, boost your energy level, and brighten your mood. But remember to begin slowly if you’ve recently been inactive. If you’re nursing, nurse or pump your breasts before you exercise, and be sure to drink enough water to avoid dehydration. If one sports bra doesn’t offer sufficient support, try wearing two.
5. Care for your breasts. Be patient with breast-feeding, especially if it’s your first baby. You may also need extra time getting started if you had a difficult labor or cesarean section. Always nurse with both the nipple and areola—the colored part surrounding the nipple—in the baby’s mouth. And avoid using soap, which dries the nipples. Plain water keeps them clean enough.
6. Be aware of your mood. As many as four out of five new moms normally feel a little blue for as long as two weeks after they give birth. If you experience extreme sadness, anxiety, or irritability that interferes with your day-to-day activities, call your doctor. You could have a treatable problem, such as postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, or a thyroid condition.