Are you losing a lot of sleep as a new mom and want energy to work out more? Continue reading for 3 ways to combat lack of sleep as a new mom.

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, see my disclosures here.

A lack of sleep leaves no time or energy for a workout, and as a new mom you are lacking sleep, BIG TIME! You probably get 2-4 hours at a stretch per night, and that’s on a good night.

It can be hard to find the motivation to work out when you have little to no sleep, but there are ways to overcome it and make fitness a priority in your life, even as a new mom.

Here are three ways to get restorative sleep as a new mom so you have the energy to work out during the day while still being a present mom to your little one. 

1. Sleep During Nap Time

If you’re a new mom, then you’ve probably heard the phrase, “Sleep when your baby sleeps.” And your response might be, “Easier said than done.” Especially when you have an endless list of house chores to do. 

But it’s true. Taking a quick nap while baby is napping can be key to getting the energy you need to work out during the day. 

With multiple little ones, try lining up at least one nap where they are all asleep. Even if their naps overlap for 15 minutes. A short 15-minute nap can restore your lack of sleep and energize your afternoon. 

Remember that it’s important to take care of yourself as well as your baby. 

2. Ask Your Spouse To Cover A Night Shift

If your baby is waking up 3 times at night, ask your spouse to help with one of those wakings. 

Here are a few tips when asking for help: 

✓ Be clear and direct: When asking your spouse to work a night shift, be clear about what you need them to do. Let them know exactly what time they need to wake up and what responsibilities they will have.

✓ Be appreciative: Acknowledge that taking care of a baby can be tiring and difficult, and thank your spouse for their willingness to help.

✓ Be flexible: Your spouse may have their own work commitments or other responsibilities, so be willing to work together to find a schedule that works for both of you.

✓ Communicate openly: Make sure you’re both on the same page about your expectations and any concerns or issues that may arise. Open communication can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure that both of you feel supported.

3. No Screens Before Bed

I get it. We are so busy. Mom life is non-stop. And on top of that business, we are still tempted to be on our screen devices. Not only is screen usage before bed detrimental to our health, but it also cuts into restorative sleep. And as a new mom, that’s what you’re looking for.

According to Sutter East Bay Medical Foundation, it is recommended to avoid looking at screens for at least an hour before going to bed, as the blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with our body’s production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle. 

Here are some tips to help you reduce your screen time before bed:

✓ Set a time limit: Decide on a time to stop using screens before bed and stick to it. For example, you may decide to stop using screens at least one hour before bed.

✓ Use a blue light filter: Many electronic devices now come with a blue light filter that can be turned on to reduce the amount of blue light emitted.

✓ Read a book or listen to music: Instead of watching TV or scrolling through your phone, try reading a book or listening to music. This can help you relax and prepare your mind for sleep.

✓ Avoid stimulating content: Try to avoid watching or reading anything that is overly stimulating or stressful before bed. This may include news articles, action movies, or social media.

By reducing your screen time before bed, you may find it easier to fall asleep. Getting better sleep will help you have the energy to work out during the day.

Conclusion

So what do you think? How are you going to combat the lack of sleep that comes with being a new mom? Comment below with your plan or thoughts!

Remember, you have 3 options:

1) Sleep during nap time

2) Ask your spouse to cover a night shift

3) Avoid screen before bed

Is there another way you get restful sleep as a new mom with a baby that I didn’t mention in the article? Comment below and help other moms get more sleep so they can work out more.

If you need accountability for your workouts, join the FREE Facebook group community of fitness-focused moms.

And continue reading for more tips on how to work out postpartum when you get little sleep. 

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, see my disclosures here.      

**It is important to always consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program and get medical clearance. Always warm up thoroughly and stretch after all workouts. LiveCoreStrong.com and Jena Bradley will be not be responsible or liable for any injury sustained while exercising at home, gym or elsewhere. Perform exercises at your own risk.

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