The last thing on your mind as your cradle your new baby is probably exercise, though every single movement you do, even in these first few hours, will help you on the road to your physical and mental recovery. And the sooner you get started, the better off you will be!

Doing certain breathing techniques can help you learn to fill your no-longer-impeded lungs. It can also help you avoid complications, like blood clots, particularly if you gave birth via cesarean surgery. Kegel exercises are awesome for initiating a return of blood flow to your perineum. This also can help decrease pain and swelling and promotes healing in this area.