7 Postpartum Recovery Tips From a Northern Minnesota Doula & Photographer

Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of the most transformative, beautiful, and—let’s be honest—exhausting experiences of your life. As a doula, photographer, and mother of two here in Northern Minnesota, I’ve personally lived through and professionally supported countless families during this tender season. I know how deeply challenging and equally rewarding the postpartum journey can be.

While every story is different, I’ve gathered some tried-and-true tips to help you recover, rest, and find your rhythm in those early weeks. Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding another little one to your family, these are my best tips—shared from both experience and heart.

1. Prioritize Rest & Ask For Help

You’ve heard "sleep when the baby sleeps," but let’s be real—that’s not always practical. Between round-the-clock feedings and emotional processing, true rest can feel out of reach.

Please remember: you don’t have to do it all alone. Ask your partner, family, or friends to step in. A postpartum doula can also be an incredible resource. Even small acts—like a home-cooked meal or folded laundry—can make a huge difference.

2. Nourish Your Body With Healing Foods

Your body just performed a miracle. Now it needs fuel.

Focus on warm, nutrient-dense meals: soups, stews, herbal teas, broths. If you’re breastfeeding, hydration is extra important. The book The First Forty Days is a wonderful guide to postpartum nourishment rooted in wisdom and care.

3. Honor Your Emotions

Postpartum comes with all the feelings: joy, exhaustion, awe, overwhelm. All of it is valid.

Let yourself feel. Journal. Cry. Talk to someone who will simply listen. And if you notice lingering sadness or anxiety, please reach out to a mental health provider. Support is strength.

4. Embrace the 5-5-5 Rule

Five days in the bed, five days on the bed, five days around the bed.

This classic postpartum recovery framework reminds us to slow down and prioritize healing. You might not follow it exactly—and that’s okay—but it's a helpful mindset shift. You deserve care, not pressure to "bounce back."

5. Build Your Support Circle

Lean on your people. I can’t say it enough.

Whether it’s a neighbor bringing soup or a friend texting to check in, connection is healing. Join a local moms’ group or postpartum support circle if that feels right. You are not alone.

6. Trust Your Instincts

You know your baby best.

In a world full of advice and opinions, your intuition is powerful. Tune in to your baby and yourself. You are doing a beautiful job.

7. Document the Moments (Without the Pressure)

As a photographer and mama, I know how much you want to remember this.

Whether through professional photos or snapshots on your phone, capture what you can. But don’t stress about perfection. The everyday magic—sleepy yawns, cozy feedings, that newborn smell—is more than enough.

Final Thoughts From Your Northern Minnesota Doula + Photographer

Postpartum is raw and real. And while it may not always feel beautiful in the moment, it is.

Take it one breath at a time. Ask for help. Feel what you need to feel. Snuggle that baby close. You’re doing better than you think.

And if you're in Northern Minnesota and looking for postpartum support or someone to document your story, I'd be honored to walk alongside you.

Reach out here to schedule your newborn session

You deserve to be seen, supported, and celebrated.

With love,

Brooke
Northern Minnesota Doula, Photographer & Mama of Two