Oxytocin, the love hormone, is so important for new mums. It protects mental health, heightens empathy, and increases resilience. But when you’re struggling with sleep deprivation or exhaustion, boosting your own oxytocin is probably not at the top of your priority list – you’re just trying to survive. That’s why I help my clients create an oxytocin checklist BEFORE baby is born, so they can stick it up on the fridge and do at least one of the items every single day.

During this 5-Day Challenge, I’ll share some easy brainstorming techniques so you can create your personalised oxytocin checklist.

Challenge Day One: Rally the Village and Feel Beloved

You know how you feel all warm and special when someone brings you a cuppa – even though it’s the same cup of tea that you could have made for yourself? That’s an oxytocin boost.

But many new mothers feel awkward about asking for help. So I’m going to challenge you to think of oxytocin-boosters that require an extra pair of hands.

I’ll let you into a secret: most people love it when new mothers ask for specific, concrete help. When you tell your friends and family exactly what you need from them, they feel closer and more connected to you. Push past your mental blocks and let your village support you!

• Ask your partner for a massage.
• Ask a friend to come with you to the salon to hold baby while you have a haircut.
• Ask a relative to cook their signature dish for you and deliver it.
• Ask another new mum to sign up for postnatal yoga with you so you can lift share.
• Ask your partner to queue up Netflix and bring you a cuppa while you cluster feed.
• Ask your mum or dad to run you a bubble bath.
• Ask a friend to organise a mother blessing for you.

The boost of oxytocin you get from asking for and receiving help is divine. You deserve it! You are giving your friends and family a priceless gift – the gift of knowing they have helped you during this precious time.

What do you love receiving from others?

Antonia

When women are nourished and nurtured after giving birth, they feel calm, connected and confident. My passion is to provide this high level of postnatal support to women in Canberra and worldwide. I guide expectant parents to create a vision for life with baby, and give them the practical tools to make their vision a reality.