53. Baby’s First Christmas: Simple Ways to Celebrate While Recovering Postpartum
The first holiday season after having a baby is always going to be memorable. But if you're postpartum and navigating those early days of recovery, it can feel less like a celebration and more like a survival mission. You’re not alone in this—you’ve got this!
If you’re wondering how to enjoy the magic of Christmas with a baby while also dealing with the emotional and physical rollercoaster that is postpartum recovery, you’ve come to the right place. Let's talk about how to keep things simple, stress-free, and most importantly, how to focus on YOU. Because as much as we love all the holiday cheer, it's okay to prioritize your well-being, too.
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Navigating Your First Christmas Postpartum: What You Really Need to Know
The holidays can bring out a lot of pressure to be "festive" and picture-perfect, especially if you’re a new mom recovering postpartum. Family might expect you to host or get involved in the usual holiday traditions. But here's the truth: It's okay to hit pause on those expectations and make your own rules. And if anyone says otherwise—well, they can get in line behind your baby’s nap schedule.
This is your first Christmas as a mother, and your experience is uniquely yours. Let's explore how to celebrate while giving yourself the room to rest, heal, and cherish the quiet moments—no perfection required.
1. Keep Traditions Simple, or Ditch Them Altogether
Who said Christmas traditions need to be the same year after year? Forget what you’ve always done if it’s not serving you right now. It’s perfectly fine to simplify, or even skip certain things this year. Your body is still healing, and your energy is precious.
Here are a few ways to make Christmas feel festive without overloading yourself:
Virtual Gatherings: Don’t feel like hosting a huge dinner? Host a virtual Christmas dinner via Zoom and show off your baby to family and friends from the comfort of your couch (yes, with pajama pants).
Baby's First Christmas Ornament: No need to run out for elaborate decorations. A simple ornament with your baby’s name and date of birth is a meaningful memento that doesn't require a ton of effort. You’ll be glad you did it later when you can actually hang it on your tree (without a toddler’s help).
Light Decorating: Keep it easy with some string lights, a little garland, or even just a festive candle that you can light during your baby's nap time (or during one of those rare moments you finally get a break).
2. Be Honest About What You Can Handle
Postpartum is a time for grace—grace for yourself, for your body, and for how you're navigating this new chapter. That includes being honest with yourself about your energy levels and limitations. Just because your Instagram feed is full of holiday parties and family photo shoots, doesn't mean that needs to be your reality right now.
If you’re not up for traveling to see family, don’t go. It’s as simple as that. Set clear boundaries, especially with well-meaning relatives who think Christmas won’t be “right” without you. You don’t owe anyone anything except what feels right for you and your family.
Here’s your permission slip to be a holiday rebel:
For family gatherings: “We’re having a quiet Christmas this year, but we’ll share pictures with you!”
For unsolicited advice: “Thanks for your suggestion, but I’m sticking with what works for me right now.”
For feeling guilty: Don’t. Just don’t. Recovery isn’t a race, and you don’t have to pretend you’re at your best if you're not.
3. Focus on the Small Moments of Joy (Really)
The first few months with a newborn are a blur. You may not be feeling your “festive” self right now, and that’s okay. But joy doesn't have to be grand or elaborate. It’s the small, beautiful moments that will make this holiday season special. Here's how to find them:
Snuggling up with baby: Is there anything better than cozying up with your baby, wrapped in blankets, while you both nap (hopefully) under the twinkling lights of your tree? Pure magic.
Silent night...not: While you’re not going to get full nights of sleep, you might get the rare moment of quiet, and that, my friend, is worth celebrating.
Gifts you actually want: Keep your Christmas list simple—ask for practical gifts like nursing pads, cozy socks, or even a few extra hours of sleep (yes, that counts as a gift).
These moments, however small, can fill your heart when you focus on the intimacy of them. That’s where the holiday cheer is hiding.
4. Celebrate in Ways That Honor Your Body’s Needs
Your body is doing a lot right now. Whether you had a vaginal birth or C-section, you’re healing, and your energy is limited. That means your version of “celebrating” may look different than before—but that doesn’t mean it’s any less meaningful.
Take breaks when you need them—If you can sneak in a nap while the baby naps, take it. Rest is as much a part of the holidays as presents and eggnog.
Create a cozy space—Even if you’re not hosting a Christmas dinner, you can still enjoy the comfort of your home. Light a candle, put on some holiday music (softly, no one needs the volume blasting), and relax. You’ve earned it.
5. Consider What You Can Give Yourself
A gift for yourself might be the best present of all. Don’t forget to show yourself some love during this busy time. Here are a few simple, yet thoughtful ways to prioritize your well-being:
Ask for help—Whether it’s with meals or baby care, don’t hesitate to let others assist while you take a moment for self-care. You don’t need to do it all on your own.
Treat yourself to something small—Maybe it's a cozy blanket, a favorite snack, or even just a long, quiet shower. These little acts can be life-changing when you’re in the thick of postpartum recovery.
Final Thoughts: You’re Doing Enough
It might not feel like the “perfect” Christmas, but here’s the thing: you’re doing enough. As you recover postpartum, give yourself the permission to celebrate the way that feels right for you. The holidays are what you make of them, and your version can look very different from what anyone else expects.
And here’s a little secret from someone who’s been there—those memories you’re creating, the quiet moments of connection with your baby, they’re going to stick with you much longer than the fancy decorations or big family gatherings. This first holiday with your little one? It’s about you—your healing, your joy, and your new family.
If you want support on your journey to feeling confident and empowered as you recover postpartum, I’ve got you.
👉 Download my Research Cheat Sheet for Expecting Parents for clear, reliable guidance on advocating for yourself in the early months.
What’s one thing you’re simplifying — or ditching — this holiday season? 💛
