Everyone has advice for a new mother, even those who don't have any children themselves seem to have gleaned an opinion or two from watching their friends or sisters. Depending on your personality you may have completely disregarded all the suggestions or diligently written down each and every one. Maybe you're going crazy trying to figure out which school of parenting is really the right one, or maybe you think you've got it down pat, the whole day scheduled and every little detail taken care of. No matter where you fall on this scale of preparation, there will inevitably be a moment, when you get home from the hospital or birthing center, or your midwife bids you ado for some much needed sleep, when you'll be left in an empty, unplanned moment alone with your precious newborn baby, thinking, "What the heck do I do now?" When this moment comes, smile to yourself and know that you have joined the ranks of all the wonderful women before you who have taken on this life-changing responsibility, and that they all had the same thought.

Now, let me tell you a little secret... you already know what is best for your child. You know your child better than anyone, you will spend more time with your child than anyone else and you will make the decisions about how to raise your child the best way you know how. So, listen to advice, read books, and observe others, and feel empowered to combine all of the information at your disposal to make the best decisions you know how. When you find you've lost yourself on the rollercoaster of midnight feedings, and your great aunt's advice, take a moment to connect again with yourself and your little one and start fresh.

Finding just ten minutes a day to refresh yourself will do wonders for you state of mind as a mother. Try any or all of the three meditation techniques below, or choose something that you know you enjoy. Meditation techniques range from standing on you head in a traditional yoga pose, to knitting quietly to running. The most important thing to remember is that you deserve this time for yourself.

Traditional meditation can be very helpful. Often insight into life's little dilemmas will show up clear as day in a quiet mind. If this type of meditation sounds like something you would enjoy, try finding a quiet place away from the noise of the house. Find a place to sit that is comfortable but will also keep you alert. Focus on your breathing and choose two phrases or words to repeat during each inhale and exhale. Choose empowering words that resonate with how you are feeling. Some examples are; peace, strength, let go, relax, and enjoy. If your mind strays from your breathing gently remind yourself to return your focus to your breath. As you continue your practice you will notice you are able to focus for longer and longer periods of time, both while meditating and throughout the day. Also, a feeling of calm will begin to permeate your days.

If sitting quietly doesn't seem like something you would enjoy, another option is Stream-of-Consciousness Journaling. Find yourself a blank journal, anything will do, and a good pen. Make yourself comfortable and begin to write. Write down everything that comes to mind whether it makes sense or not. Don't edit your thoughts or feelings even one little bit. Remember no one will read this but you. While writing see if you can begin to observe your thoughts as they pass through your hand. Remove yourself from the business and find a quiet serenity behind where the thoughts and writing originates. If you truly allow your hand to write without the interference of your conscious mind you may be quite surprised at the wisdom that originates from within you. Try it, you might just enjoy it.

Another option if you are not keen on writing is to do collage work. This doesn't have to be the next Mona Lisa, you are doing this solely for yourself. Begin by collecting old magazines and go through cutting out pictures and words that move you or resonate with you. When you feel inspired, combine them into one collage. You will be surprised at the themes that emerge from this exercise because when choosing visual images we tend to react more subconsciously than when choosing words to express ourselves. These collages are very therapeutic for purging that deep desire to express oneself and are a wonderful step on the way to finding that still place in your mind. Collages made this way are very meaningful and also make great gifts if you feel like sharing.

Giving yourself a little extra time each day to reflect and settle down will make you a better parent. It is important as your child grows that she sees you caring for yourself. Children learn by example after all. So get your rest, care for your body, listen to your soul, and you will be the best parent your child could ask for.