Postpartum Sunset Scaries? Let's talk about it.
Let me set the scene. clears throat
You just brought your baby home. The sun is shining. You’re exhausted, but hanging in there…
…and then the damn sun decides to set.
And suddenly? The anxiety and angst creep in with the darkness, and you're not sure where another day went.
The postpartum sunset scaries are very real, and I see this with so many of the moms I work with.
It’s that weird wave of dread, sadness, or anxiety that hits in the evening, especially right around sunset.
You might notice:
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more irritability
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mood swings
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tearfulness
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anxious thoughts
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that “I don’t feel okay, but I don’t know why” feeling
And here’s the thing: this can happen even if you don’t have postpartum depression or anxiety. It’s just… a very human postpartum experience.
Why does it happen?
Honestly, we don’t fully know (what's new in women's health). But what I see over and over again is this:
You’re exhausted.
The day finally slows down.
The distractions are gone.
It gets quieter.
And suddenly everything you’ve been holding all day… hits.
There can be loneliness.
A lack of routine.
That feeling of “how is the day already over?”
It’s a lot....
So what are we doing about it?
First, turn on all the lights.
I’m not kidding. Turn them all on. LET. IN. THE. LIGHT.
This is one of the most common things moms tell me that actually helps.
Then:
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Have something to look forward to (a show, a snack, literally anything)
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Change rooms if you need: new space, new energy
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If you’re up for it, a gentle walk can help take the edge off
- Turn on up-beat music
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Partners take over or be ready with extra support
If you’re in this phase right now and questioning your sanity, I want you to hear this:
This is temporary.
The sun will come back up tomorrow (cue the movie, Annie)
It will get a little bit easier.
And this is exactly why I care so much about preparing for postpartum, not for the baby (although that's important too), but for you.
Because so much of this hits harder when you’re going in blind.
If you're looking for additional tips and tricks for postpartum, I put all my docs together in my Prepared & Postpartum Bundle. It walks you through what to actually expect (emotionally, physically, logistically) and how to set yourself (and Partner) up so you’re not just surviving those early weeks.
Sending you all my love & lots of light,
Kyndrick
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