The arrival of a new baby is a joyous occasion, but it also brings a wave of new experiences and, let's be honest, challenges. Breastfeeding, in particular, can feel overwhelming for new mothers.
While it's a beautiful way to nourish and bond with your little one, establishing a comfortable and effective routine can take time and patience. One aspect of successful breastfeeding that’s often overlooked is the environment. Creating a peaceful and supportive space at home can greatly reduce new mother stress and contribute to a more enjoyable breastfeeding experience for both you and your baby.
A calming atmosphere will help you relax, which can positively impact milk supply and your baby's latch. Let’s explore how to create a stress free environment at home for breastfeeding.
Tips for Creating a Calm Space for Breastfeeding
Can stress while breastfeeding affect the baby? Studies indicate that cortisol, a hormone released when you're stressed, can be present in breast milk, and higher levels have been associated with increased crying and fussiness in breastfed babies. That’s why it’s so important to create a stress-free environment to help you relax while breastfeeding.
Set the Mood with the Right Lighting
Harsh, bright lights can be jarring and make your room feel like an operating theatre instead of a serene retreat.
- Opt for soft, natural lighting whenever possible. Gentle illumination creates a more serene environment conducive to relaxation.
- For night time feeding, consider using a soft nightlight that allows you to see your baby clearly without fully waking either of you, maintaining a calm and sleepy ambiance.
Invest in Comfortable Seating for Extended Sessions
Breastfeeding sessions can be lengthy. Prolonged periods in awkward positions can lead to back and neck strain, adding unnecessary stress to the experience. That's why it’s recommended to invest in comfortable, supportive seating that allows you to relax and focus on your baby.
- Nursing pillows are a great way to reduce strain on your back and arms by providing proper positioning for your baby, bringing them closer to your breast for a more comfortable latch.
- An ergonomic chair, like the Commune x Hegen Recliner, has several key features to help you feel more comfortable while breastfeeding or when using a milk pump:
- Easily adjustable headrest: Find the perfect position to stay comfortable while nursing.
- Moulded foam seat: Provides consistent support for your body whilst still feeling soft and comfortable.
- Ergonomic armrests: Guides you in finding the ideal position to help your little one achieve a deeper latch and reduces strain on your arms.
Play Soothing Background Noise
Household sounds can sometimes be distracting for both you and your baby. It’s great to take care of these unwanted distractions while you’re breastfeeding.
- Introducing white noise can help mask these sounds, creating a consistent and calming auditory environment. As a bonus, many babies find the steady hum of white noise soothing as it potentially mimics sounds they hear in the womb!
- Similarly, playing soft music or sounds of nature can have a relaxing effect on both mom and baby for a more peaceful feeding session. Try different songs to see what resonates best for you and your little one.
Create a Calm Atmosphere with Scents
Aromatherapy can be a wonderful way to feel more relaxed before and during a breastfeeding session.
- Certain calming scents like lavender or chamomile are known for their soothing properties.
- If you choose to use essential oils or diffusers, be sure to use baby-safe oils in appropriate dilutions so you don’t overpower you and your baby’s senses.
Useful Products to Establish a Breastfeeding Routine
While a calm environment lays the foundation, having the right products strategically placed can help you establish a smooth and predictable breastfeeding routine. Predictability is a great way to reduce uncertainty and help you feel more prepared and in control, reducing stress.
Here are some essential products to help you establish a smoother breastfeeding routine:
- Commune x Hegen Changing Cart: This beautifully designed cart offers a mobile organisation system for all your baby care essentials, keeping diapers, wipes, and changes of clothes within easy reach during or after feeding sessions, minimising disruptions and keeping your routine on track. It also acts as a dedicated place to store baby bottles so you always know where to look.
- Commune x Hegen Side Table: Ideally placed next to your nursing chair, this table provides a convenient surface for your water, snacks, burp cloths, or even your phone, ensuring you have everything you need close by during feeding times so you never have to get up and interrupt the flow.
- Reusable Breast Pads: Having a supply of comfortable and absorbent reusable breast pads readily available helps manage leaks between feeds, keeping you feeling dry and comfortable and preventing unexpected discomfort that could disrupt your routine.
By strategically incorporating useful products into your breastfeeding space, you can create a more organized, comfortable, and predictable routine, ultimately leading to a more stress-free experience for both you and your baby.
Create Your Breastfeeding Haven
Creating a peaceful and supportive sanctuary in your home is a beautiful way to cherish your breastfeeding journey and nurture the precious bond with your baby. We invite you to explore the Commune x Hegen range of furniture for breastfeeding mothers, thoughtfully crafted to provide you with comfort and support during those precious feeding moments and become wonderful additions to your home after your little one is all grown up.
