For our first Bagong Nanay Biz feature this 2026, I’m happy to share the story of Ella Libaton and her claw machine rental business, Clawhaus. This 29-year-old mama of two from Rizal is also a content creator, and a friend who pushed me to also start my inflatable rental biz last year.
I know her story can inspire both stay-at-home moms and working moms to trust that even if the time to start a passion project or dream business isn’t now, it will come in His perfect time.
How Clawhaus started, according to Mommy Ella Libaton
I started Clawhaus fresh out of postpartum, during a season when I was still finding my way back to myself. As many of you know, building something while raising little kids isn’t easy—your time is divided, and your energy is constantly tested.
When my younger son turned three and life finally felt a little more manageable—no more sleepless nights or late-night feedings—I knew it was time. I wanted to build something of my own, something that existed beyond my role as a mom. I also wanted to create an additional stream of income for my family—one that required only a few hours a day while still allowing me to be a present wife and mother.
That was the beginning of Clawhaus.
More than a business
When I was just starting, putting myself out there was honestly scary. I was still finding my footing after postpartum and figuring out who I was again, so the idea of showing up and starting something new felt really vulnerable. On top of that, the initial money we invested in Clawhaus came from our savings, and I carried this quiet pressure of not wanting to let my family, especially my husband, down. That made the risk feel even more real.
Ella Libaton and her claw machines rental business, Clawhaus
“I’ve learned to work smarter, not harder, so I can grow Clawhaus while still showing up for my family.”
Ella Libaton, owner, Clawhaus
Looking back now, it was absolutely worth it. Every uncomfortable step, every risk I took led me to something I’m truly proud of. Clawhaus gave me more than just a business—it gave me confidence, purpose, and the reminder that I can build something meaningful while still being fully present for my family.
Celebrating small wins
So far, so good! We recently wrapped up our first bridal fair, which led to over 20+ bookings for the year, something that really helped Clawhaus gain momentum and move forward with confidence this 2026. From starting with just two machines, we’ve now grown to four, and we’re planning to add more for lease and rental ventures across our city.
Planning your child’s birthday party? It’s not complete without these crowd-favorite claw machines!
Being a mom has actually helped me a lot in business. It taught me how to manage my time better, be more patient, and focus on what truly matters. I’ve learned to work smarter, not harder, so I can grow Clawhaus while still showing up for my family.
Lessons from starting a biz
The biggest lesson this business has taught me is that becoming a mother doesn’t mean the end of our dreams. If anything, it can be the fuel that pushes us to dream bigger and braver. I’ve learned that it’s okay to start small, to be scared, and to grow at your own pace.
Having a reliable village (my husband, family and friends) also made a huge difference. Knowing I have people I can count on allows me to show up fully for both my business and my kids.
Ella and her family
If there’s one thing I’d love to share, it’s this: you don’t have to choose between being a mom and building something for yourself. You can do both. Your dreams may look different now, but they’re still valid—and sometimes, motherhood is exactly what gives us the courage to finally take that risk.
Support Mommy Ella’s business by booking at Clawhaus. Tell her you read her story on Bagong Nanay and get 10% off or free transpo fee for Marikina and Antipolo events!
Do you have a business story you want to share too? Message me on Instagram @bagongnanay or comment below!
Trigger warning: mental health issues, depression, and death
I would say it’s a miracle that I still get to write this.
I’ve lost count of how many times I told my husband that I no longer wanted to continue with my life because I felt useless, worthless, and hopeless. Ever since I’ve become a mother.
I know, I know. Becoming a mother is an honor, a privilege that not all women get to have. Pasalamat ako may anak ako, oo. Pasalamat ako na pwede akong mag-resign sa work. But there are days when it feels easier to give up than to fight, and it’s not our fault.
Sabi kasi nila, when you become a mother, it’s the best thing that will ever happen to you. But there’s a fine print: you might lose yourself in the process, if you try to do it all on your own.
My turning point
It was on October 9, 2021 when I took the brave step to consult a psychologist. Sabi ko, birthday gift ko na sa sarili ko. My daughter was only two years old then. May mga episodes ako na sa sobrang frustrated ko sa sarili ko, sa pagiging unemployed ko, at sa pandemic, na muntik ko na siyang masaktan. As a former Bantay Bata 163 reporter, alam ko ang effects ng physical abuse sa bata, kaya hurting my children was one thing I swore I will never do.
So when that moment came na I shouted at her and almost hurt her, I paused and said, “Hindi na ako ‘to. Something’s wrong with me and I have to fix it.”
I booked an online appointment with a psychologist, and I told her everything, down to the details. All of my thoughts and feelings. She confirmed I went through postpartum depression. Sobrang gaan ng pakiramdam ko after ko malaman na, ayun, it was depression taking over me. I was motivated to become better.
Fast forward to my second child, four years after, I thought I was okay, pero may times din na I feel, nagrerelapse yung depression ko, especially that I’m unemployed again. Pero nilalabanan ko, with faith and my support system, I am still here.
So here I am, taking this moment to share what I want other people to know.
Three things I want people to know
1. Please, yakapin ninyo ang mga Bagong Nanay.
Kahit ano pang sabihin ninyo, new moms are in the most vulnerable season of their lives. After giving birth, their hormones are all over the place, their body is recovering, and the pressure to figure it all out is just so hard. Thus, their mental health should be protected at all costs.
Please, don’t ever think that you’ve done everything to help them. Don’t ever think na sila ang may problema at hindi ikaw. Kasi they need help to transition from only thinking about themselves to suddenly caring for a tiny human being, and that’s not very easy.
Intindihin natin sila. Tulungan natin sila. Pasayahin natin sila. Love them. Tell them they are beautiful. Remind them that they are amazing. Let them know that they are seen, valued, and loved, not just their baby.
2. Bagong Nanays, you don’t have to do it alone.
Oo, nakaka-boost ng morale when you say “Wala kaming yaya,” or “Wala kaming help.” I get it. It feels like achievement mo that you are hands-on with your child. But when it gets hard, please. Ask for help. Kung hindi afford, baka may iba pang way. Exhaust all possible ways.
Let me break it to you: in the end, walang award for the mom who never asked for help. But your kids will remember you if you’re the mom who took care of herself. The mom who craves for me time and gets it. The mom who is filled with joy. Hindi ako nagpapa-manipedi type of mom. Pero pag gusto ko mag-meet with my friends, I tell my husband and we plan for it. We make a way for it.
We’re not meant to do this all alone, all to ourselves. We need a village. Nanay lang tayo, hindi tayo Diyos. And that means, we need the Lord. We must seek Him every day, in every decision, in every moment.
It’s okay to ask for help. Even the best fall down sometimes, sabi nga ni Howie Day.
3. Makakabalik rin tayo.
Minsan, mas madali tumingin sa mga wala tayo kaysa sa mga meron tayo. Wala nga akong work sa ngayon, pero meron akong time ihatid sundo ang anak ko, i-serve ang asawa ko, at mag-explore ng pwedeng pagkakitaan. Now more than ever, mas nakikita ko yung reason why kailangan ko munang mag-step back sa career para sa mga anak kong maliliit dahil gusto ko solid yung foundation nila bago ko sila i-expose sa mundo.
Makakabalik rin tayo. Ngayon pa nga lang one year old yung anak ko, hindi na niya ako hinahanap pag lumalabas ako ng bahay. Nararamdaman ko na ulit na malapit na akong magka-free time. Paano pa kung nasa school na silang dalawa ng ate niya? Ano nang gagawin ko? Pwedeng bumalik sa workforce, pwede ring hindi na. Pwedeng magsimula ng business kung saan masaya ka sa ginagawa mo at hawak mo ang oras mo.
One night, my daughter told me, “You’re the best mom in the world because you’re my only mama and you are always free to be with me.” Grabe, I realized it was the only validation that matters.
Hindi mo kailangang magpa-pressure sa mga tao sa paligid mo, na dapat ganito ka kasi ganun sila. Stay in your lane. Focus on your finish line. Compete with yourself. Invest in yourself para pag dumating yung araw na sayong-sayo na yung oras mo, hindi ka mangangapa. Sabi nga nila, walang nanay ang nag-regret na niyakap niya, nakipaglaro siya, at binigay niya ang oras niya para sa kanyang mga anak.
If there’s one thing I know the Lord wants me to tell you, it’s this: You are still here for a reason.
Nabasa ko nga online, “This is not your practice life. This is all there is.” Insist on your joy.
Kung kailangan mo ng tulong, go. Kung gusto mo magpahinga, go. Say it. Ask for it. Demand for it. Work on it. Because you deserve it. You deserve to take up space just because you are you.
Yun lang.
And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Kumusta? Kaliwa’t kanan ang balita ng lindol at flu outbreak, okay ka pa ba? Ang daming nangyayari, pero don’t forget that it’s okay to feel anxious and all these big feelings, but let’s do our best to not dwell on them.
Ang dami kong nakikitang mommies who are preparing their Go Bags at marami ring sellers na nagbebenta ng hard hat. Nabasa ko nga, during these times, it’s okay to worry, but it’s better to be prepared.
Kaya naman, this October, which is also World Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s fitting to share about the story of a Bagong Nanay who, despite her mental health struggles, was able to thrive and build her own business.
We put the spotlight on Mommy Arabella April Yeung, the mom behind the brand Cuddle and Coo PH, which offers an FDA-approved lactation and recovery drink and other parent and baby products. I’ve tried their Malunggay & Acai Berry Juice and you can read about my review here.
Mommy Ara, who used to be a public hospital nurse, shared with Bagong Nanay how she battled with mental health struggles on her own. It was during the COVID-19 pandemic when she finally had the courage to seek professional help, and she was diagnosed with major depressive disorder with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Her husband supported her through it all, and she poured herself into Cuddle and Coo PH, a small business she dearly loves.
This is her Bagong Nanay Biz story.
A full circle moment
I’d like to think that Cuddle and Coo PH began during our first visit to a baby fair—Momzilla—in 2023. We were browsing baby items and came across a booth managed by siblings. One of the sisters was pregnant at that time, and was selling maternity clothes and baby trinkets. We chatted a little, and they were the first to inspire us to dream of creating our own brand someday. I even told my husband, “Hon, one day tayo naman ang mangbubudol.” Little did I know that joke stayed with him, and eventually became real. At that time, I was pregnant with two babies: my son Jin, and Cuddle and Coo PH.
“Blessings don’t always come all at once—they’re given in perfect timing.”
-Mommy Ara Yeung
When I gave birth in August 2023, I struggled with the sweets and drinks I consumed. Since I had gestational diabetes, I had to be careful with my sugar intake. I stopped eating the usual treats and switched to supplements, but it felt more like a chore than something enjoyable. I wanted something refreshing and delicious without affecting my sugar. This became my daily “litanya” to my husband, who encouraged me to reach out to the right people—being a nurse with connections to hospitals and professionals. That was when it hit me: this challenge could become an opportunity.
Mommy Ara Yeung of Cuddle and Coo PH
One of the main challenges we faced was delegating tasks. As a nurse, I’m used to things progressing in a certain, structured way. My husband meanwhile is a lawyer, who is more chill and used to delays. This difference often frustrated me.
For one, we had to launch the brand without our flagship product because of delays with our FDA certification. By God’s grace, we were able to successfully introduce Cuddle and Coo PH at Momzilla in November 2024!
This Malunggay and Acai Berry Juice is Cuddle and Coo PH’s flagship product
A family affair
Every night, my husband and I would say: “Lord, miss na naming mag-pack ng parcel, palambing naman po ng order.” And true enough, there are days when we have no sales at all—days when we look at each other nervously, wondering if people have already forgotten us and worry that our stocks expire. But the Lord has His ways.
Sometimes the shop is quiet for days, then suddenly we get 10–15 orders in a single day, and we’re scrambling to pack and ship. It taught us that blessings don’t always come all at once—they’re given in perfect timing. It also reminded us to pause, breathe, and enjoy family moments in between.
“When it gets overwhelming, I remind myself: what a blessing it is to do something I love from home.”
-Mommy Ara Yeung
Despite the structured chaos, this business has strengthened our faith and marriage. When I’m busy with inventory, my husband takes over baby duties—feeding, burping, changing nappies, even thawing milk. He has never missed a doctor’s appointment and always makes time for us, even packing parcels after a full day of work. If this business journey has given us that kind of teamwork and resilience, then all the struggle has definitely been worth it.
Ara with her very supportive husband
Although we have an extra hand with our sales associate Thea, who works part-time during baby fairs, I handle most of the day-to-day tasks at home while juggling work, chores, and childcare. It gets overwhelming, but I remind myself: what a blessing it is to do something I love from home. What was once just a dream is now reality. Even our son Jin learns from this—he hands us tape when packing or opens doors when I’m carrying parcels. He sees his dad working, too. These small lessons by example are priceless, something words alone can’t teach a toddler.
Advice for aspiring mompreneurs
If you want to start a business, you need to be ALL IN.
No reservations, no shyness. Who else can champion your product better than you, the creator? That’s why I’ve spent almost a year attending baby fairs, engaging with moms and dads about their breastfeeding journey.
The first year is crucial.
It’s where you’ll see whether the business is earning or just breaking even. Document everything, down to the last peso. That’s how you’ll know what’s working and what’s not. And very importantly, don’t cover costs out-of-pocket. Let the earnings fund the cycle. Proper costing and accounting are key; otherwise, you risk setting yourself up for failure.
Have faith in the Lord, in yourself, in your products, and in your team.
Faith carries you through the days when sales are low and motivation is running out. Sometimes blessings overflow, sometimes it feels quiet. Don’t be discouraged. Maybe it just means more effort is needed or a better strategy for visibility.
Listen to feedback, criticisms, and setbacks.
These are not failures, but steps forward. No system is perfect. Cuddle and Coo PH is what it is today because of continuous feedback—from co-merchants, customers, and our small team.
What’s next for Cuddle and Coo
Our vision is to make Cuddle and Coo PH a trusted name for moms and families who want healthier, safer, and more thoughtful alternatives in their parenting journey. We want our brand to be more than just products—it’s about community, support, and encouragement for parents navigating the same challenges we faced.
“Our dream is to keep growing in a way that stays true to our values: family, faith, and love.” -Ara Yeung
In the near future, we plan to expand our product line to include more parent- and baby-friendly items, with the same focus on health and wellness. We’re also exploring collaborations with fellow mompreneurs and health professionals to bring better awareness and education to families. Beyond online and baby fairs, we hope to eventually have a physical space—a “Cuddle and Coo corner”—where parents can discover products, share experiences, and feel supported.
Our dream is to keep growing in a way that stays true to our values: family, faith, and love.
Follow Cuddle and Coo PH on social media and shop their products here:
Kumusta? Ako, okay lang naman. Malapit na mag-1 year old ang aking baby boy. Kaninang umaga, nag-declutter ako ng mga gamit niya–mga damit na pinagliitan at mga hand-me-downs from friends na ready na akong i-pass on to another Bagong Nanay. If you are interested in hand-me-down Bagong Nanay items, send me a message on the Bagong Nanay Viber group here.
Kahapon, August 6, nag-join ako sa isang online seminar about nurturing the mental health of breastfeeding mothers.
Source: Facebook /Philippine Society of Newborn Medicine
Bilang isang breastfeeding mom and maternal mental health advocate, narito ang mga natutunan ko.
Takeaways from Breastfeeding and Mental Health Seminar
1. Educate yourself.
Knowledge is power, ika nga. Kahit buntis pa lamang, mahalagang tayo ay may kusa na mag-aral tungkol sa ating papasuking buhay nanay.
Gaya na lamang ng salitang “postpartum.” Maraming nanay ang nagsasabi na “parang may postpartum ako.” Ayon kay Dr. Bianca Katrina Villanueva, isang OB-GYN at breastfeeding specialist, lahat ng nanay na bagong panganak ay dadating sa “postpartum” period. Kaya hindi nangangahulugang may depression agad ang isang bagong nanay.
May mnemonic para malaman kung may sintomas ang isang nanay ng postpartum depression o PPD: M-O-T-H-E-R: Mood changes, lOss of interest, Trouble sleeping, Heartache, Eating problems, and bRain fog.
Screenshot from Zoom /Mother and Baby Dialogues Series 5
Ayon naman kay Dr. Joffrey Sebastian Quiring, isang psychologist, mahalagang aware ang mga nanay, kahit buntis pa lamang, kung ano ang mga sintomas ng postpartum depression at kung anong kaibahan nito sa baby blues.
Kung ang nanay ay nakakaramdam ng kalungkutan ng mahabang panahon at hindi na makapag-function gaya ng pag-aalaga sa bata o gawain sa bahay, maiging kumonsulta na sa doktor. Lalo na kung may mga sintomas na ito na nakakaalarma, gaya ng gustong saktan ang sarili o ang baby. Ito ay mga red flags na dapat maagapan at maikonsulta na sa doktor. Kung may nararamdaman na o hirap ang buong pamilya sa pag-aalaga, maaaring banggitin na ito sa OB-GYN o sa pediatrician para ma-refer sa espesyalista.
2. Communication is key.
Hinihikayat naman ni Dr. Abegail Joy Corro-De Pano na during the first postpartum check-up, kausapin nila ang kanilang doktor for any concerns about breastfeeding or latching. She reminds that it really takes a village to help a mom breastfeed. Dapat may support system sa bahay gaya ng asawa, kapamilya. Malaking bagay rin ang magagawa ng pagkakaroon ng me-time at pag-observe ng proper nutrition. Ika niya, kung happy ang mommy, happy ang baby.
Ayon naman kay Dr. Rene Andrew Bucu na isa ring tatay, huwag balewalain ang tulong ng asawa bilang support system ng bagong nanay. “Communication is key. Dapat parehong magulang ay gustong mag-breastfeed,” sabi niya. Kuwento niya, kahit na mag-asawa silang doktor (OB-GYN ang kanyang misis), hindi pa rin naging madali sa kanila ang breastfeeding.
Para naman sa mga tatay, bilin ni Dr. Bucu, “Do whatever is possible to help your wife breastfeed – change diapers, household work, masahe, o kahit ano pa. Happy mommy, happy baby, magiging happy daddy.” Inemphasize niya na ‘super worth it’ ang mag-push through with breastfeeding kaya kung may nararanasang hirap, humingi ng tulong.
Mahalaga rin daw na naicocommunicate ng asawa ang pangangailangan ng bawat isa. Para naman kay Vickie Rushton, isang aktres, beauty queen, at bagong nanay na halos dalawang taon na sa pag-breastfeed ng kanyang anak, sapat na ang presence ng kanyang asawa at assurance na tama yung ginagawa mo.
Diin ni Dr. Corro-De Pano, husbands really need someone to tell them what they need to do.
3. Adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Studies show that breastfeeding decreases the risk of depression among new mothers. Dahil nga naman sa breastfeeding, once you get the hang of it, mas makakatulog na ng mahaba ang nanay dahil imbis na gumising para magtimpla ng gatas sa gabi eh pwede naman ang side-lying.
Pero meron ding mga pag-aaral na nagpapakita na ang pag-struggle naman sa breastfeeding ay nagiging cause ng anxiety and depression among new mothers. Dagdag pa rito, kapag raw nakararanas ng depression ang bagong nanay, nakakaapekto ito sa milk supply niya.
Kaya mahalaga na mayroon physical and emotional support ang bagong nanay. Ayon kay Dr. Quiring, ang PPD ay masosolusyunan at hindi pang-habang buhay. Maaaring tumawag sa crisis hotlines ang mga nanay na nakakaranas ng sintomas ng depression, at maari ring magpatingin sa psychiatrist. Hindi nangangahulugan na kung may depression ay kailangan nang uminom ng medications, dahil iba-iba naman ang kaso. May mga iba pang interventions gaya ng talk therapy o family therapy.
“Commit to the journey. The benefits outweigh all the difficulties.” Dr. Rene Andrew Bucu
Inemphasize din niya na huwag balewalain ang healthy lifestyle, gaya ng pagkakaroon ng sapat na tulog, pahinga, at pagkakaroon ng physical activity.
Panawagan naman ni Dr. Villanueva sa mga OB-GYN, sana raw bago pa manganak ang mga nanay ay makatanggap ito ng antenatal education and care. Kasama dito ang pag-alam kung ano ang dapat i-expect tungkol sa breastfeeding, sino ang makakasama ng ina pagkapanganak, at iba pa.
Malaking bagay din daw kung maiwasan ang PPD lalo na kung madedetermine kung at risk ang nanay habang buntis pa lamang ito. Mahalaga rin ang pagkakaroon ng regular na screening para sa PPD ang mga bagong nanay.
4. Use social media as a force for good.
Tinalakay din kung paano nakakaapekto ang social media sa mga bagong nanay. May nagsabi na puro ingay lang daw ang social media dahil sa mga “perfect mom” na pinoportray ng iba sa Facebook at Instagram. Pero ayon kay Vickie, dahil buo ang loob niya na mag-breastfeed simula pa lamang, hindi siya naapektuhan ng nakikita niya sa social media. Si Dra. Villanueva din, na madalas makakita ng iba’t-ibang posts ng breastfeeding dahil sa algorithm ng social media, na-motivate daw siyang mag-breastfeed lalo na pag nakakabasa siya ng success stories about breastfeeding.
Diin naman ni Dr. Bucu, naglipana ang mga article sa social media na may click-bait headline, dahilan minsan kung bakit ang ibang nanay ay nawawalan ng kumpiyansa sa pag-breastfeed, “Learn how to make social media a force of good,” sabi niya.
Final words
Para sa mga Bagong Nanay na nagpapadede, kung may nararanasan kayong hirap, ask help agad kasi may solusyon. Kapag pinatagal natin, lalong lalala.
Sana po sa simula ng breastfeeding ay walang judgment dahil ang mga nanay ay lunod na sa paghuhusga sa sarili.
Maigi raw na magpatuloy na magpadede up to 2 years and beyond. Huwag lang kalimutang alagaan ang sarili — our children deserve moms and dads who are healthy mentally and physically.
Ang ina raw ay ilaw ng tahanan, pero kung may mental health problem, nagiging madilim ang bahay. Strengthen the support system. Let’s raise the children and mother together. Bukas ang mga doktor kung may kailangang tulong. Tanggalin ang stigma, at huwag mahiyang mag-ask for help.
Dr. Bucu emphasizes, “Commit to the journey. The benefits outweigh all the difficulties.”
Kay Dr. Quiring naman, pinaalala niya na there’s no health without mental health. “No man is an island. We are here to help families and influence systems.”
Paalala naman ni Vickie, “just add water.” Payo niya sa mga nanay, drink lots of water at maligo.
Finally, sabi ng mga doktor na ang village ng isang bagong nanay ay extended sa workplace. Sana mas palawakin pa ng mga kumpanya ang pag-intindi sa mga nanay na bagong panganak para mas mapagtagumpayan nila ang breastfeeding.
Maraming salamat, doctors, sa pagbibigay halaga sa mga Bagong Nanay.Para sa mga Bagong Nanay na nangangailangan ng kausap, join kayo sa Viber group namin. If you are in crisis, call NCMH Crisis Hotlines: (02) 1553 (Luzon landline), 0917-899-8727 (Globe), or 0908-639-2672 (Smart).
Nakaranas din ako ng postpartum depression bilang isang first-time mom sa panahon ng COVID-19 pandemic. Watch my interview with Beacon here.
I have to say – nakakaloka na ang mga turn of events. Mag-iisang taon na tayong naka-quarantine dahil sa Covid-19 pandemic. Parating na ang mga bakuna, pero ang bagal ng usad. Dagdag pa diyan, hindi nauubos ang chores natin bilang mga nanay. Shoutout sa mga walang yaya o kamag-anak na kasama sa bahay katulad ko, minsan, hindi ko na alam kung saan pwede humugot ng sanity.
Nakaka-pressure rin pala no, na ang tingin ng society sa mga nanay ay mga superwoman. May nabasa akong meme kanina, natawa nalang ako. Kasi nakakarelate ako.
Credits: Close to Classy
May mga araw na para bang ayaw mong magpaka-nanay. Yung sana pwede lang humilata sa kama at magpahinga. Pero hindi, babangon at babangon tayo dahil nanay tayo. Nanay na tayo.
Kaya naman, naisipan ko magtanong sa mga kapwa ko nanay sa Instagram kung ano ang mga recent discovery nila para makapag-cope sa nanayhood struggles na nararanasan natin everyday.
Bilang isang development worker, naniniwala ako na bilang nanay, kailangan holistic ang pagtingin natin sa health natin. Na hindi lang dapat healthy ang katawan at ang kinakain natin. Dapat kasama rin ang emotional, mental, at spiritual health natin. Kundi, hindi tayo totoong okay. Hindi natin maseserve ang mga pamilya natin kung tayo mismo ay hindi okay.
Tip #1: Move.
Siguro mag-aagree kayo na isa sa pinaka-challenging sa sitwasyon natin ngayon ay yung bawal lumabas. Mga social creatures tayo eh. Yung panay punta ng mall kahit wala namang bibilhin. Tatambay sa labas ng bahay para makapag-chikahan sa kung sinumang nasa labas. O pupunta ng Starbucks para makipag-catch up sa friends.
Napakahirap na limited ang galaw natin. Hindi tayo makahinga. Kaya sana makahanap tayo ng way para igalaw ang mga katawan natin. Gaya ni Mommy Chee. Sabi niya, “Recent discovery ko is mag-bike kapag madami na akong iniisip. Lalo na sa mga area na may mga puno.”
Nakakamiss mag-Zumba. Yung naka-social distancing kayo para hindi magkatamaan sa pagsayaw. Pero pagkatapos nun, kakain kayo sa tapsihan. Pwede pa rin naman mag-Zumba sa bahay, gaya ng kwento ni Mommy Rej dito sa blog niya.
Involve mo din si LO sa paggalaw para masarap nap niya
No excuses tayo, mga nanay. Kasi according to Mama Mindy, kahit 6 weeks post-partum ka palang, pwede ka na mag-balik alindog program! Depende sayo kung ano ang gagawin mo para gumalaw basta gumalaw ka. Kasi ako sa totoo lang, sinasayawan ko nalang yung Cocomelon at Pororo.
Tip #2: Communicate.
Madami satin na sasabihin na mayakap at makiss lang tayo ng mga anak natin, pawi na ang pagod natin. Pero minsan, may iba pa tayong kailangan para naman maboost ang emotional health natin.
Sabi ni Nanay Daisy, “Ako po nadiscover kong magbasa ng mga iba’t ibang stories ng mga kapwa ko nanay.” Bilang mga Bagong Nanay, nangangapa tayo minsan. At okay lang yun. Kaya mahalaga ang pag-share ng mga kuwento natin gaya ng sabi ni Mommy Daisy. Abangan: #KuwentongBagongNanay this Saturday!
Kailangan din natin ng kausap tungkol sa mga feelings natin. Kasi kung yung anak lang natin ang kausap natin, baka maloka tayo. May phase sa buhay ko (bago pa ko magkaron ng anak) na parang mas gusto ko mag-open up sa mga strangers kesa sa mga taong malapit sakin. Wala lang, parang no judgment lang. Bagong perspective ba. Isa sa mga apps na nakatulong sa akin noon ay ang 7 Cups. Pwede niyo siya itry – lalo na sa mga panahong kailangan niyo lang talaga ng makakausap.
Ito rin ang dahilan bakit ko naisip gumawa ng Viber group ng mga Bagong Nanay. Napakalaking bagay yung may makakausap ka na naiintindihan ka, at magrereply sa tanong mo. Kaya kung hindi ka pa kasali, join ka na sa Bagong Nanay Community. Dito, may nanay na gising para sumagot sa mga tanong mo. Kahit ano pa yan – from paano magpaputi ng kili-kili to anong pakiramdam ng naglalabor na.
Lagi ko itong ippromote hanggang sa sumali ka na
Tip #3: Find your peace.
Taas kamay kung katulad ko – na-a-anxious kayo araw-araw sa kung ano ang lulutuin almusal, tanghalian, at hapunan? Grabe pala maging adult no? Lahat yan iisipin mo kasi ikaw na yung nanay ng pamilya. Kaya kesa mastress ka sa araw-araw kakaisip, ang ginagawa ko ay nag-pi-prepare na ako ng plano ko for tomorrow.
“To-do lists are lifesavers,” sabi ng mga taga-Parkwood Playschool. Napakalaking bagay sakin na nakaplano na ang araw ko, para wala akong makakalimutan at yung may sense of achievement ka at the end of the day dahil naaccomplish mo ang tasks mo. Kahit gaano pa kaliit yan. Actually, the more specific ang tasks na isulat mo, mas mataas daw ang chance na magawa mo ito.
Naka-sale na yung planners ng Mommy Mundo! Check it out
Tip #4: Believe.
If you know me, baka di kayo maniwala but I (try to) start my day by reading the Daily Scriptures. Kasi minsan, feeling ko pag may problema ako, may sagot na agad si Lord/Allah/Universe bago ko pa itanong. Lalo na at a time like this, kailangan natin ng kakapitan na hindi kakalas sa atin.
Isa rin sa mga recent discoveries ko ay ang Daily Wellness playlist ng Spotify. Nakakapag-meditate ako at the end of the day – pagtapos na ko magchores at manood ng K-drama. Nakaka-relax siya, at the same time, eto na yung pinaka-me time ko.
Mix siya of talks and songs – sana naka-Premium ka; ako hindi
Dahil minsan, hindi naman kailangan ng manicure o pedicure to feel that you are taking care of yourself. Minsan, sapat na yung huminga ka lang. Inhale, exhale. Inhale, exhale. After all, nanay tayo. Nanay na napapagod, nangangapa, nadadapa, pero sa huli, nagpapahinga. Humihinga. Dahil while we breathe, we hope.
Mahirap maging nanay. Given na yun. Kaya let’s take it one day at a time lang.
One last tip: When you feel super down or tired, hug your little one. Feel every tiny part of their body. And realize how that tiny little thing could give you so much love. How that small human can inspire you to be superhuman. Yes, babalik tayo sa yakap nila.
This morning, I woke up the moment my husband was about to go to bed. I asked him, “Anong oras na?”
“Ah, 4:30. Ano ba ngayon, Wednesday? Hala, Thursday na pala.”
Uncertain. Our life has been like that every day, for four days now, since government ordered both public and private companies to let their employees work from home amid the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
My eldest sister who works in the BPO industry said it best: this is unprecedented. In her 14 years on the job, they were never asked to stop going to the office and just work from home. Not even during the worst typhoons. It’s never been done before. This is some serious sh*t.
Anxiety due to this uncertainty hits me every time. I recently quit from my job, after ten years of working, to become a full-time nanay. The thought hasn’t really sunk in yet, as the decision was beautiful and harrowing at the same time. Here’s what I’ve been doing to cope with this uncertainty:
1. Focus on what matters most.
With the threat of Covid19 just lurking outside our door, I am striving to be like a swan – cooking our meals, washing the dishes, preparing her bath, breastfeeding her every two hours, reading to her, playing with her, watching nursery rhymes with her, putting her to sleep – but breaking down underneath. Focus on what you need to do, and keep going.
Your most important task during these times is to keep your family safe and healthy. Don’t pressure yourself to do a lot of things just because you feel you aren’t doing anything. It’s okay. Just keep your home the safest place to be.
2. Take a break.
Recently, I’ve been having engorged breasts. Perhaps my baby is not latching well, or probably because I am so stressed. Why was I stressed that night?
Our President just finished his speech, announcing that there will be an Enhanced Community 1uarantine or ECQ in Luzon. After that, my husband and I watched 93 Days on Netflix, a film about ebola. On top of that, I am unemployed, and anxiously waiting for the results of my applications for home-based jobs. And yes, I need to do everything in my power to keep my family alive and try to keep my sh*t together.
Everything is messed up, so give yourself a chance to breathe. Take a social media break, watch the daily news but with caution that there are things you cannot control, so do things that you have control. Read a book, write on your journal, or declutter your room. Rest.
3. Take it one day at a time.
Dealing with this kind uncertainty is hard, especially for a first-time mother. How long before I can take my child to the park? Or, will we ever be able to go to the park again?
Find comfort in knowing that the only way we will overcome this, is to survive one day at a time. For now, staying at home is the best that we can do. So we make the most of our hours at home. One day, we will look back on these days and miss these, I bet.
4. Find an outlet.
The mental load of a first-time mother at the time of Covid-19 is freaking heavy. You are in-charge of another person’s life now.
That’s why to cope, I try to write so I can finally let all my thoughts and emotions out. If I leave this post unfinished, and save it as another draft, it will keep haunting me. I also find comfort that when I write down things, there will come a time that I will read them again and think “Ooh, so that happened before and now everything is better.”
Maybe take this time to finally meditate or workout, bake or cook, whatever that suits you. Nothing fancy, just focus your energies to doing something else instead of worrying and being anxious. It’s hard, but we need to be in-charge of our mental health to better care for others.
So what else can you do when things are uncertain?
Focus on what truly matters
Consider sending private messages to people you care about, instead of posting rants publicly.
Don’t add to the burden that others are already carrying by spreading negativity or false news.
Have faith that this, too, shall pass.
In this time of crisis, be like a swan, but think like a wolf. Take charge of your pack.
And oh. Find comfort in this promise from today’s readings:
“All depends on faith, everything is grace.” —Rm 4:16
Bagong Nanay 