Surviving Postpartum in Winter: 5 Tips for a Cosy, Supported Recovery
Postpartum in winter can feel like quite a challenge – with the cold, short days and rainy weather in the UK, it’s easy for the blues to set in. But don’t worry, you’re not alone in this, and there are ways to make this season feel warm, supported, and even enjoyable. Here’s a little guide to help you embrace winter while looking after yourself and your newborn, with some extra tips on how my postnatal doula services and baby massage classes here in West London can make a difference.
Whether you're looking to hire a doula or join a cosy baby class, these five tips can help you thrive during this unique season of motherhood.
1) Create Your Own Cosy Indoor Wardrobe
One thing you’ll find early on in winter postpartum is just how much time you’ll be spending indoors. The right indoor clothes can make all the difference – items that are not only comfortable but feel like a warm hug each time you put them on. A quality, soft dressing gown, warm leggings, and long-sleeved tops can be your go-to pieces during this season.
When my first child was born, I got myself a lovely, warm dressing gown that felt like an instant “cosy mode” switch. It was thick enough to keep me warm on chilly mornings, but light enough that I could even sleep in it for those bedsharing moments. The feeling of putting on something that keeps you snug, like a hug in fabric form, can give you an emotional boost.
Essential Indoor Clothes Checklist:
- Cosy dressing gown – Something you can wrap around yourself and snuggle into.
- Soft, non-restrictive tops – Think of layers you can easily peel on or off, and lift easily for breastfeeding
- Warm socks or slippers – Keep your feet toasty and the chill away.
- Loungewear that feels lovely to the touch – Fabrics like fleece or cashmere blends can feel luxurious without breaking the bank, and you’ll be able to find loads of bits second hand on Vinted.
2) Balance Sleep with Your Baby’s Rhythm
Postpartum in winter can make you feel like the days slip away, especially when you’re trying to catch up on sleep. In winter, it often feels frustrating when those precious morning hours pass by without you getting much daylight. But, here’s a little secret: you can use your baby’s natural sleep rhythms to your advantage, especially in those early weeks.
Evening Sleep - Babies often sleep well in the early part of the night, around 9 pm to midnight. This is a great time for you to get a good chunk of rest as well. Allow yourself to wind down with your baby and use these hours for some uninterrupted sleep – even if it means shifting your evening routine.
Morning Nap Routine - After the first few weeks, if you feel comfortable, you can start enjoying these early-morning naps with your baby. Babies naturally sleep more in the morning, and instead of feeling like you’re “wasting” daylight hours, you can turn it into a positive, gentle routine for extra rest and recovery.
3) Soak Up Daylight Every Day
Getting some fresh air and daylight each day can be a game changer for your mood and energy, especially in the darker winter months. Not only does it help you feel more connected to the outside world, but it’s also great for your newborn’s developing circadian rhythm – and yours too, if you’re experiencing sleep shifts as many new parents do.
Benefits of Daily Fresh Air:
- Mood Boost: Exposure to natural light, even on a cloudy day, helps your body produce serotonin, which can lift your mood and combat seasonal lows.
- Better Sleep for Baby: Daylight exposure helps your baby start to understand the difference between day and night, which can improve their sleep patterns over time.
- Gentle Exercise: Going for a short walk helps your circulation, supports your mental health, and is a healthy way to get moving with minimal strain.
Tips for a Successful Daily Outing:
- Aim for a gentle 10-15 minute walk around your local area, or find a favourite park where you can sit on a bench and breathe in the fresh air.
- Invest in a warm baby carrier or pram cover so both you and baby stay cosy.
- Stick to a time that works best with your energy levels, whether it's morning or afternoon. Every bit of daylight helps!
4) Join a Baby Class for Connection and Fun
When the days are short and cold, joining a baby class can be a wonderful way to bring a little social warmth into your life. In winter, with limited activities, getting out for a baby-friendly class is not only a reason to leave the house but also an opportunity to meet other parents who understand what you’re going through.
Why Baby Classes are Perfect for Winter:
- Connection: Winter can feel isolating, especially as a new parent. A baby massage class, for example, provides a supportive space where you can meet other parents, chat about your experiences, and share in those “me too” moments.
- Learning New Skills: Many classes, like baby massage, also offer valuable skills. In our classes, we cover techniques to soothe your baby, improve sleep, and help with tummy troubles. Plus, I co-host these classes with an experienced midwife, giving you access to expert advice while bonding with your little one.
- A Cosy Routine: Weekly baby classes provide a structure to your week and something to look forward to. After the session, you’ll likely feel a sense of accomplishment, joy, and relief from connecting with other new parents.
If you’re based in Notting Hill or nearby in West London, join one of our baby massage and infant care classes! They’re intimate, informative, and offer the perfect cosy environment for a winter outing.
5) Embrace the Beauty of Winter – Lean Into the Season
Winter is often seen as a bleak season, but there are ways to make it feel special, even while you’re navigating the early weeks of postpartum life. Leaning into the season – instead of wishing it away – can help you find little moments of joy. Try to think of winter as an invitation to slow down, indulge in cosy comforts, and create some winter magic within your own home.
Ways to Embrace Winter Cosiness:
- Candles & Soft Lighting: The soft glow of a candle can instantly make a room feel warmer and more inviting. You might even enjoy a candlelit bath while your baby naps.
- Winter Comfort Food: Slow cooker stews, warm porridge, and hearty soups can make your days feel comforting and nourishing.
- Luxurious Hot Drinks: Treat yourself to a hot chocolate with whipped cream, or a spiced chai latte as a little indulgence. It’s these small treats that can brighten your day.
Winter can also be an ideal time for family bonding. Snuggle under warm blankets, read a good book, or simply take a slow morning to chat, laugh, and be together. These slow moments, though quiet, can be so fulfilling and comforting.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone in This
Navigating postpartum during winter can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a unique opportunity to embrace the season, connect with your baby, and focus on self-care. Know that every challenging moment will pass, and you’ll come out of this winter season stronger and more resilient than before.
If you’re a new parent in Notting Hill or West London and could use a helping hand or just someone to talk to, I’d love to support you. As a postnatal doula, I’m here to provide guidance, help with baby care, and even hold your baby while you take a much-needed break. And don’t forget to check out our baby massage classes – they’re the perfect winter activity, offering warmth, connection, and valuable bonding time with your little one.
Remember, this season is about nurturing yourself just as much as it’s about caring for your baby. With the right support, a bit of winter magic, and some cosy moments, you can make your winter postpartum experience one that’s filled with warmth and love.