
How to Know If You’re Doing Too Much Too Soon Postpartum (And What to Do Instead)
The early postpartum weeks are a blur of love, hormones, recovery, and often…way too much pressure. Whether it's the dishes piling up, the pressure to "bounce back," or just wanting to prove you're okay—many parents end up pushing themselves before their bodies are ready.
If you're feeling off but can't quite pinpoint why, this post is for you.
Why Slowing Down Matters
Your body has just done incredible work.
Healing takes energy—physically, emotionally, and hormonally.
Pushing through exhaustion doesn’t speed up recovery; it delays it.
Postpartum is not a time to perform—it's a time to repair.
7 Subtle Signs You're Doing Too Much Too Soon
Bleeding increases after activity – especially if bright red returns.
You’re feeling lightheaded, shaky, or wired-tired.
Mood crashes at the same time each day (often late afternoon).
You're skipping meals or just grabbing snacks and calling it good.
You can't fall asleep even when baby sleeps.
Pelvic heaviness or back pain after being on your feet.
You’re snapping more easily than usual—and feeling guilty for it.
What Helps Instead
This doesn’t mean bed rest forever. It means choosing intentional recovery. A few powerful swaps:
Feed yourself before the to-do list. (Yes, even before the dishes.)
Trade 10 minutes of chores for 10 minutes lying down.
Say yes when someone offers help—and ask when they don’t.
Prep warm, easy-to-digest meals ahead of time, or keep a few frozen.
Create a gentle rhythm instead of a strict schedule.
✨ Want help setting your body up to heal from the inside out?
Grab my free Nutrition & Meal Prep Guide for the Early Postpartum
This guide is your no-fluff, deeply nourishing blueprint for early postpartum recovery. Inside, you’ll learn:What to eat (and drink) to actually feel better—not just survive
How to support your hormones, digestion, and energy naturally
Tips for managing discomfort and easing inflammation
Gentle ways to ask for and accept help
Simple, one-handed snack ideas
Whether you're still pregnant or already in the thick of the fourth trimester, this guide will help you feel more grounded, fed, and cared for.
Final Thoughts
You’re not falling behind—you’re building the foundation for lifelong health.
Listening to your body now means more energy, smoother recovery, and less burnout later.
Be gentle. Be fed. Be still when you can.
💛 You’re doing enough—even when you're resting.