Everything in your life changes when you have a baby.  The slow and lazy mornings over a cup of coffee or tea are gone.  The meals you once were able to enjoy in leisure are now eaten in a rush between loads of laundry, on the go or left completely uneaten.  Your sleep routine has become more lack thereof than actual slumber.

You’re too tired, too hungry, and too cranky to socialize with your friends.  As it should, your life revolves around that little bundle of joy now residing in your home and in your heart.  As much love your baby and your new role as mother, you need to do a little something for yourself.  You might think that you don’t have the time or energy but in truth, you can take ten, fifteen or even thirty minutes and enjoy a short walk with your baby. 

Research has shown that the benefits of walking and moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day can help you:  reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels, improve blood lipid profile, maintain body weight and lower the risk of obesity, reduce the risk of osteoporosis, reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, as well as enhancing your mental well-being.

Your baby will also benefit from your daily walks.  Walking outside gives your baby an opportunity to explore the world and provides an opportunity to interact with new people which provides an excellent opportunity for the social development of the child.

Early-morning walks provide an excellent source of vitamin D from exposure to the sun and babies sleep much better after a walk. 

Mothers find that children who are taken for a walk tend to have fewer tantrums and mood swings. Babies who go often for walks tend to be happier and more cheerful than children who spend a large amount of time indoors.

Dress your baby appropriately for the weather, ensure your stroller is stocked for those baby emergencies and enjoy the fresh air with the love of your life.