Purchasing flowers when you need an energy boost –  I’m not sure if it’s a proven remedy but it’s worth a try, if you ask me.

Breastfeeding weariness is a real thing and at the moment, it’s hit me hard. At this stage with every baby I have noticed a distinct decline in my energy levels. I’m sure there’s something that happens at the nine-month postpartum mark but I’m yet to discover the science behind it. Alas, I’m tired. That’s all there is to it.

The humidity coinciding with the pre-Christmas rush is a contributing factor, of that I am sure. And then there’s Percy’s teeth which are yet to appear but we all know that they’re moving about with vengeance (more on that later). He’s crawling – quickly – and will speed up if he hears me running toward him. He’s also pulling himself up to standing and will stay there for a good long while, his tiny stick-like legs doing a fine job of holding him up. He’s increased his breastfeeds, too, so just as I was thinking that feeding was predictable he decided to shake things up a bit.

He’s busy and I’m tired.

If I’ve learned anything from my eight-odd years of mothering (and close to five years of breastfeeding) it’s that it’s always best to listen to your wise body when it’s yelling at you, regardless of the fact that you may be too tired to do anything about it. Indeed, it’s a vicious circle.

Reclaiming energy is at top of my list out of absolute necessity. I’m having to be religious about drinking water and taking supplements (iron, magnesium and vitamin c), early bedtimes are a must (I’ve fallen asleep in my clothes far too many times of late) and I’m trying my hardest to fit regular walks and swims into my week (however short they may be). Instead of reaching for sugary treats I’m attempting to discipline myself with fresh fruit and vegies and plenty of good fats (but oh, chocolate!).

This exhaustion is not new to me – I know it all too well. The silver lining? I also know the best cure. Good food, exercise, sunshine, early nights and being disciplined enough to follow the plan.

My advice? Listen to your body. And buy flowers.