Holiday Stress Reduction – The Benefits of Babywearing and Nursing

The holiday season is often synonymous with joy, celebration, and quality time with loved ones. However, for parents, it can also bring a unique set of stressors that threaten to overshadow the festivities.  

But it doesn’t have to! There is hope mom and dad. Your holidays, while they may be a tad stressful, can still be enjoyable with a little preparation and self-awareness fun 😉  

Let’s get into it.  

Identify Your Stressors 

Before we dive into some easy ways to reduce stress as a parent, let’s identify some common stressors that parents often encounter during the holiday season. Yours might be different, that’s ok! Take a minute before the season to think about what usually triggers you into stress mode. Maybe write these things down so you can make a plan later. 

1. Family gatherings and social events can be overwhelming for both parents and babies, as they may involve crowded spaces, noisy environments, and disruptions to routines.
2. Traveling with a baby can be a logistical challenge, with concerns about keeping the baby comfortable and maintaining their sleep schedule while on the road.
3. Managing a baby’s sleep schedule during festivities can be tricky, as late-night gatherings and disrupted routines can lead to cranky little ones.

Babywearing Can Help 

One of the beautiful things about babywearing is that there are both physical and emotional benefits for you AND baby. As an introvert, I proudly used my baby to get out of scenarios quite often. Feeling overwhelmed at the dinner table? Time to feed baby! Need a minute of quiet? Baby needs a break! Of course, you don’t NEED to use baby as an excuse. It’s healthy to acknowledge and address your own needs. But if that adds more stress, no judgement here 😉  

Here are some benefits of babywearing during the holiday season: 

1. Convenient mobility during social events: Babywearing allows parents to move freely and comfortably while keeping their baby close. This can be especially helpful when navigating crowded holiday gatherings.

2. Hands-free shopping and multitasking: With your baby securely wrapped against your chest or back, you can tackle holiday shopping, cooking, and other tasks with ease.
3. Providing comfort and security to the baby (and you) amidst the festive chaos: Babies often find solace in being close to their caregivers. Babywearing offers a sense of security and comfort, helping babies stay calm in busy holiday environments. There are also studies done that have shown the positive effects on the caregiver by increasing oxytocin and helping you get to a more relaxed state of being.

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Nursing: A Soothing Solution 

Breastfeeding and nursing play a crucial role in a baby’s well-being, and they offer unique advantages during the holiday season: 

1. Comforting the baby during overwhelming situations: Breastfeeding provides not only nourishment but also comfort. During stressful moments, nursing can help soothe a fussy baby and provide a source of emotional security.
2. Maintaining a consistent feeding schedule during travel: Traveling with a baby can disrupt feeding routines. Nursing allows you to provide familiar nourishment on the go, ensuring your baby’s well-being.
3. Creating a quiet bonding moment amid the holiday hustle: Amidst the chaos of the holidays, nursing offers a precious opportunity for parents and babies to connect in a calm and intimate setting.

We recognize that not everyone is on the same journey when it comes to feeding their baby. That’s ok! Maybe you’re bottle feeding, formula feeding, or maybe your little one is onto solids! Giving a bottle can still give your little one a moment of comfort and bonding. Check out the Ember Bottle Warmer if you’re bottle feeding on the go. It’s a game changer for keeping breast milk or formula at the right temp! 

The Perfect Pair: Babywearing and Nursing 

Combining babywearing and nursing can really help you as a caregiver reduce your stress and keep baby calm. We like to say that the best place for baby, is you. Babies love the feel and smell and comfort of their parents, so when life gets chaotic, the steady rhythm of your heartbeat keeps them right at home. Whether you like to nurse privately or have things to do, nursing in your carrier can help with both.  

Babywearing and nursing can help with: 

1. Establishing a nurturing environment for the baby: When you wear your baby and nurse them as needed, you create a nurturing space that prioritizes their well-being and comfort.
2. Allowing parents to actively participate in festivities: Babywearing and nursing enable parents to be fully present during holiday gatherings, eliminating the stress of juggling a fussy baby.
3. Fostering a sense of calm and connection during the holidays: By practicing babywearing and nursing, you can cultivate a peaceful atmosphere that benefits both you and your baby, promoting a sense of togetherness.

Learn More About Breastfeeding In Carriers

Babywearing and nursing are powerful tools for reducing holiday stress and anxiety. These practices offer numerous benefits for both parents and babies, from convenient mobility and hands-free multitasking to nurturing comfort and bonding moments. By combining babywearing and nursing, you can create a joyful and relaxed holiday season that allows you to fully embrace the festivities while ensuring your baby’s well-being. 

Choosing the Right Gear 

When it comes to choosing a carrier, it’s all about preference. Every Ergobaby carrier is made with safety and comfort in mind.  

Here’s a breakdown of our different carriers.  

If you’re looking for a carrier that’s a little different, special, or complements that holiday outfit, check out our sister brand Baby Tula! They create a variety of prints and fabrics that are wearable art and distinctly you. 

Expert Holiday Tips for Success 

For expert advice on holiday stress management with babywearing and nursing, consult experienced parents and professionals in the field. Double down on extra therapy for the month, go on a few extra walks, get that massage, or grab coffee with some other parent friends. The most important thing is to do what you need to support your emotional well-being so you have enough in your cup to support your little ones.  

Here are some additional tips for creating a peaceful holiday atmosphere for both parents and babies: 

– Plan ahead: Set realistic expectations for the holiday season and prioritize self-care. 

– Enlist support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends and family when needed. 

– Create quiet spaces: Designate a calm area where you can retreat with your baby when the holiday hustle becomes overwhelming.  

So, as the holiday season approaches, consider incorporating these practices into your holiday routine for a stress-free and enjoyable celebration.