Motherhood should be a time of joy, and that starts with your own well-being, made easy with this science-backed, reassuring guide.

In your child’s early years, airplane oxygen mask logic applies: Do not forget to take care of your needs first. But for far too many exhausted and overwhelmed moms, that often feels downright impossible.

From experts Rick Hanson, PhD, a clinical psychologist, Jan Hanson, Lac, a specialist in nutrition, and Ricki Pollycove, MD, a gynecologist-obstetrician, A Happy, Healthy Mom offers an easy-to-follow and comprehensive plan to help moms get the rest, nutrition, help, and comfort they need. This book’s unique evidence-based approach includes physical, psychological, and interpersonal methods of care for mothers during their child’s most challenging years: infancy through kindergarten.

In a voice that’s both authoritative and compassionate, A Happy, Healthy Mom explains how moms can stay happy, healthy, and energetic by:

• Tuning into their own bodies and needs with zero judgement or self-blame
• Solving common hormonal, mood, or gastrointestinal problems
• Protecting themselves from stress and stopping irritability before it starts
• Restoring important minerals drained by pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Increasing teamwork and emotional intimacy with their partners
• Returning to a normal sleep cycle after their child is sleeping through the night
• Eating healthy meals that take only minutes to prepare
• Requesting the right medical tests at the right time

Far too many mothers are physically, mentally, and emotionally depleted, which not only impacts physical health, but overshadows the deeply rewarding experience of motherhood. Featuring stories from numerous real mothers, this book will ensure that you thrive—not just survive—while taking care of your little one.