You need energy and stamina to be a good parent, so do your best to be healthy in every area of your life. Allow time each day for relaxation and exercise. These exercises take only a few minutes and will help you feel refreshed. Lie flat on your back. Take a deep breath. Now breathe out slowly. Repeat five times. Lie flat with your arms at your sides. Move your arms out to shoulder level, keeping elbows stiff. Then, raise your arms over your head and bring your hands together. Repeat five times. Lie flat, and then raise your head, touching your chin to your chest. Try not to move any other part of your body. Repeat a few times. Try to eat healthy foods. For more information on eating healthy, read Finding Your Way to a Healthier You, at this web site: http://www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/dga2005/document/pdf/brochure.pdf
Plan and take time for yourself. Find a friend or relative to watch your baby while you get time away. Do something that will refresh you and make you happy to be back home. Anything that makes you a happier, more enthusiastic person is bound to make you a better parent. Be kind to everyone, and take a “parenting break.”

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