Dana Wood is an older first time mother, but any new mom would find helpful information in Momover: The New Mom's Guide to Getting It Back Together (Even If You Never Had It in the First Place!). Besides having a harder time bouncing back physically, there are similar adjustments regardless of age.
Part 1: Getting It Together Mentally
This covers mood swings triggered by hormonal imbalances and lack of sleep. Dana Wood reassures readers that only 10% of mothers will suffer from serious post partum depression.
This section also deals with the challenge many mothers have of asking for help. Dana was fortunate enough to have a nanny to help her, but she did suggest other brilliant ideas on how new moms could get support and maintain their sanity.
Part 2: Getting it Together Physically
- Obtaining proper nutrition isn’t easy as a busy mother, nor is getting enough exercise. If mom is still feeling fat when she comes home from the hospital, Dana Wood helps with this as well.
- Wood shares the pros and cons of mommy-baby verses working out solo. Simple walking works, but others do pilates, yoga or jump rope.
- There’s also a whole chapter on breasts and some quick make-up tips.
Part 3: Getting It Together Emotionally and Spiritually
- Positive self talk: Dana shares examples of easy ways to replace/reframe negative thoughts.
- Relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga are suggested as ways to reduce stress.
- Time alone or the necessity of “mommy timeouts” is also stressed.
Good Sleep Hygiene for New Moms
There are sensible tips in Momover like developing a routine and making sure the bedroom’s dark. “Zap the nap” however wouldn’t work for brand new mothers as that nap might be the only sleep they get if the baby was up all night.
Interspersed in between the chapters is a fun “worked for me” section with Dana Wood’s advice based on her personal experiences. As an example, one is called “ditching diet coke” and another “targeted nutrition supplements”.
There’s a detailed appendix at the end of Momover (Adams Media, 2010) on books, websites and dvds for new moms still looking for information.
Momover is a fun and enlightening book for new mothers packed full of useful information. Most importantly, it reminds new mothers to take care of themselves physically, emotionally and mentally.
About Dana Wood
Dana’s the senior fashion editor of W and the writer of the online column “Momover” where she addresses the challenges of first time motherhood. She’s also written for Women’s Health, Self, Harper’s Bazaar, People and InStyle.
Sandra Williams - Sandra's a book addict and writer from Ontario, Canada. Her interests include cooking, health and personal development, so many of her ...
