How to Find Joy in Postpartum

You're exhausted. You're hurting *down there*. You don't know when you last ate or showered, and you're not sure what happened to that poopy diaper you just changed. You just got home from the hospital with your newborn baby and feel a sense of "well, what do I do now?!". Or, you're 8 weeks in and you're wondering if you ever will gaze at the back of your eyelids for longer than 2 hours again!

After yet another sleepless night with our third, I decided sitting outside watching the sunrise would be time well spent.

I have experienced these feelings three times, and each time they took me by surprise in a different way. But, in the midst of the human limitations I was feeling, what a beautiful, sacred thing I had just experienced! The little life, knit together perfectly in my womb by an awesome and mighty God, was birthed by my body, was brought forth into this earthly life where it had been prayed for, prepared for, and loved since the beginning. Even amidst the emotional, mental, and physical struggles, I fought for joy that I knew could be found in the postpartum period.

Of course, there is sweet delight in gazing upon this beautiful, tiny little baby that has been given to you to love and instruct! But when you haven't slept in three days and are crying over dropping your hairbrush, you can still find a constant joy that holds you close and sustains you through every difficult moment as a postpartum mama.

"You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." Psalms 16:11

Jesus doesn't promise to make every circumstance easy and enjoyable; in fact, he tells us as Christians, that "in this life, you will have trouble" [John 16:33). There will be difficult moments, ones that will extend past our human strength and ability to cope. But, if we know Jesus, we can rest in Him, because He "has overcome the world" (John 16:33). This means He has defeated all sin, evil, and death, and promises to restore us to the perfect life once experienced in the Garden of Eden; one where there will be no more mourning, tears, or pain (Revelation 21:4). This reminder gives my soul something to hope in and hope for.

So, how can you find unfailing joy in the postpartum period? I like to have various Bible verses memorized so I can recite them to myself in my head or out loud throughout my day. Some wonderful verses can be found on our beautifully crafted Bible verse cards:

Worthy Women Bible Verse Cards - 30 count

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Even better? I take deep breaths while reciting them- four seconds in, and six seconds out. This will calm your neurological system by activating your parasympathetic nervous system and will revitalize your body by increasing oxygen supply to all of your body's cells and tissues. Repeating the verse will keep your mind focused on the hope and joy you can find in Jesus amidst the soreness, the uncertainty, and the exhaustion.

"I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With Him at my right hand, I will not be shaken." Psalms 16:7-8

If you would like to talk about finding joy in the postpartum period or have questions about growing your relationship with Jesus, please consider reaching out to me, Dr. Ash, or visit a local church in your area.

Do you have a favorite Bible verse that you can meditate on during the difficult moments? Keep your eyes focused on Jesus, He cares for you!

If you are reading this, I have prayed for you to find unfailing joy during this season of life!

Dr. Ash