According to Sophie Walker and Jodi Wilson, rest is not limited to sleep, and new mothers should incorporate various forms of rest into their lives. The authors, who researched over 60 perinatal health specialists and hundreds of mothers for the Australian Birth Stories podcast, found that many mothers enter the postpartum period with unrealistic expectations of themselves.
They argue that rest is the most productive activity after childbirth, as the body heals during rest. Full recovery from childbirth depends on rest, which lays the foundation for long-term health and wellbeing. However, rest requires intention, preparation, and support, and is often linked to privilege and access to a support network.
The five types of rest include social rest, which involves choosing positive and meaningful interactions that bolster energy rather than draining it. In early postpartum, unwanted guests can be a hindrance, causing exhaustion for both mother and baby.
Mental rest is crucial during the mentally demanding period after birth, which involves rapid learning and is worsened by recovery, 'baby brain', sleep deprivation, and breastfeeding. Giving the brain space to process information, such as by avoiding social media overload and writing down thoughts, helps achieve mental rest.
Sensory rest is important due to the physiologically vulnerable state of new mothers. Calming music, warm baths, hot tea, cosy clothes, and minimal screen time help keep mothers grounded. Creating a comforting postpartum environment, like a cocoon, is beneficial.
Physical rest includes both active rest, such as lying horizontally in the first few weeks to allow the pelvic floor to heal, and passive rest like sleep. Active rest also involves releasing tension through gentle movement like yoga or massage. Prioritising breaks, such as time alone in the shower or bedroom, helps mothers who feel 'touched out' from constant physical contact.
