Parent wellness on wheels: why a stroll a day is great for you and baby
Parent wellness on wheels: why a stroll a day is great for you and baby
Some days, being a parent feels like a film montage of endless feedings, nappy changes and Googling “is that sound my baby just made normal?” at 3 am. And let’s be honest: sometimes the film skews more horror flick than light-hearted comedy. Is there a way to entertain your baby while also granting yourself some much-needed peace? Introducing the daily stroller walk, and 5 reasons why you’ll want to start doing it. Today.
We honestly can’t think of a better way to battle parental stress while also boosting baby’s health and happiness. Here’s how:
1. Fresh air is an instant reset
No matter the season or mood you're in, it's always a good idea to get out of the house. Just a quick lap around the block can clear the senses and fill yours (and baby’s) lungs with clean air. You’re also exposed to different light, humans who are not part of your household - it’s basically a reminder that there is still a world outside of your cocoon, particularly during times when the cocoon can feel a bit stifling.
2. Exercise that doesn’t stress the body
Everybody agrees that movement is good for your health. But you just had a baby; nobody expects you to start training for a marathon! Pushing a good stroller is movement that fits into the life you have right now. It’s light cardio without the joint strain. No childcare required, plus (and possibly most importantly), you can bring coffee and snacks!
3. The soothing magic of motion
It’s no secret that motion soothes both you and the baby. The gentle roll of a smooth ride in the pushchair, the hum of the street…it’s basically like nature’s white noise machine. And stroller naps totally count, because any time your baby sleeps and you get 20 minutes of brain space, that’s a win-win. The magic comes in when the walk turns baby from “fussy” to “finally asleep.”
4. Pressing pause on the world
While you’re walking, you can be on Airplane Mode. You’re allowed to ignore all incoming messages, give the hoovering a rest and just collect yourself and your thoughts. The parent behind the stroller can’t do the washing up right now, nor can she do anything about the laundry. She is there to enjoy with all her senses, bond with her baby and simply be. Just step, breathe and roll.
5. A personal ritual
One thing that might surprise you as a new parent is things feeling like they’re happening to you, rather than being something you’ve chosen. A daily pushchair stroll is a healthy, conscious choice that can also act as an anchor in the chaos of those first months. It’s one of the easiest routines to add (a quick round the block after the morning feed, or a short loop before dinner) and it’s a calming ritual. We could probably come up with at least 5 more reasons why a daily pushchair stroll is good for you and your baby, but who has the time to read them, are we right? Just put your bundle of joy in the pushchair, point yourself towards the door and do something good for yourself and your baby. You deserve it!
Need a little calm in the chaos? The Joolz Aer² limited edition Calming Beige is inspired by the calming essence of Japanese Zen gardens. Making it the ultimate daily reminder that calm is still out there. Somewhere. For more tips and stories, make sure to check the Parent Hideout.
