I tell everyone that when I birthed my boy, I also birthed my brain. The old noggin just doesn’t work like it used to. While us moms might never get that pre-baby brain back, there are things we can do to improve our cognitive ability. In this article, we’ll discuss 6 simple strategies to help beat mom brain.
A look at the contents:
What Is Mom Brain?
Mom brain, often referred to as “momnesia,” is a term used to describe the cognitive changes and memory lapses experienced by many mothers, particularly in the early stages of motherhood. It can manifest as forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and mental fog, which can be attributed to a combination of factors including hormonal fluctuations, sleep deprivation, and the demands of caring for a newborn.
While it’s a common phenomenon, the experience of mom brain can vary widely among individuals, with some women noticing only subtle changes in cognitive function while others may find it significantly impacts their daily life and functioning.
I most definitely experienced mom brain after giving birth. We have a very nice espresso machine in our home. It’s our pride and joy. I use that thing every day for breakfast and lunch. I know how to use it.
However, one day shortly after birthing my boy and my brain, I stood at the espresso machine, ready to make my usual flat white, and I could not recall which switch was for the espresso making part and which switch was for the milk steaming part. There are different switches for each process.
I kid you not. I stood at the machine staring blankly at the buttons and knobs. Eventually, I texted my husband and embarrassingly asked him which switch I had to turn on first. We laugh now, but at the time, it was maddening.
Is Mom Brain Real?
Some people don’t think mom brain is real. You bet your brain it is! Did you read the story above? Classic mom brain situation.
Heck, even science says it’s real.
Many studies have provided evidence to support the existence of mom brain. A study published in the journal Hormones and Behavior found that changes in hormone levels during pregnancy and the postpartum period can have significant effects on brain structure and function, particularly in areas related to memory and emotional regulation.
Also, research published in the journal Sleep Medicine Reviews has shown that sleep deprivation, which is common among new mothers, can impair cognitive function, attention, and memory, contributing to the symptoms of mom brain. I most definitely was deep in the abyss of sleep deprivation when the espresso machine fiasco occurred. Mom brains are on overload 24/7. It’s a wonder we remember our own name.
Mom brain is most definitely real. So what can we do about it?? I’m glad you asked.
6 Strategies To Help Beat Mom Brain
Physical Exercise
Physical exercise is important. We all know that, but moms don’t usually have the opportunity to set aside a portion of each day and dedicate it to working out in the gym. I wish I could do that. But my reality doesn’t allow such privileges at the moment, so I’ve got to be creative. And I’d imagine you might be in the same boat.
There are options for us, too. Join a mommy stroller walking group or plan a walk with a friend and bring the babies and toddlers. It will be a group affair, and it still counts as physical exercise. Or get a runner-friendly stroller and take your little one for a wild ride.
Get creative, mama! We gotta move our bodies one way or another.
Mental Stimulation
Give your brain a workout with puzzles, crosswords, Sudoku, or learning a new skill or language. That new skill can be something really fun, like learning how to use an espresso machine!
Set aside time each day to engage in activities that challenge your mind and stimulate thinking. There are so many brain building apps today that make it easy to spend 10-15 minutes working your brain.
Healthy Diet
Fuel your brain with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Incorporate foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, to support cognitive function. Get creative in the kitchen and involve your kids in meal preparation to make healthy eating a family affair.
One of my favorite brain healthy lunch options is avocado toast with smoked salmon and Everything But The Bagel seasoning. It’s incredibly delicious and gives my brain a big boost.
Adequate Sleep
Ahhhh sleep. Of course we all know we need more sleep. Show me a mom who’s well rested, and I’m asking her 5000 questions to figure out how she got that way. It’s just not so common.
The practical thing moms can do is attempt to nap when the baby is napping and go to sleep shortly after your little one goes to sleep. But I’m not going to pretend I actually do that. Sleep is one thing that will likely be a big struggle for most moms. So while we know we need to get better sleep, it’s probably not going to happen for awhile.
Please know you are not alone, mama! My sleep is crap, too. Why do you think I’m using the espresso machine twice (or three times, oopsies) every day?
Stress Management
Moms might not have a ton of extra time to devote to journaling, sitting quietly and contemplating our thoughts, or anything else for that matter. But we can do little things here and there to manage our stress.
Take 15 minutes in the morning to pray and journal before the babies are awake. Have a cup of tea multiple times a day. Tea is calming in itself, even if the house is blowing up. Take your little ones out for a walk and get loads of fresh air. Do things that you find enjoyable with your kids. Take a bubble bath after everyone is asleep.
We can do little things in the day to ensure we don’t experience a meltdown.
Social Support
Connect with other moms. This is a given. We have to have friends. Join a moms’ group, attend playdates, or participate in online forums to share experiences, exchange advice, and build friendships with fellow moms who understand what you’re going through. Don’t do this alone!
Surround yourself with a supportive network of family and friends who can offer encouragement and lend a helping hand when needed. Relationships are a non-negotiable.
Where Do We Go From Here?
Let’s be honest. Mom brain is just the result of moms being so over-tired and over-worked. I hope these 6 strategies to beat mom brain have inspired you to make a few changes where you can.
We are juggling one million different things at any given time of the day. We’ve got to have a ton of grace for ourselves and understand that we’re doing a BIG job.
And most of all, we’ve got to know that we’re not alone. There are so many other moms out there just like us, barely keeping things together, but doing it like a boss. Cause mama, YOU ARE A BOSS.
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