Mama Muse • Tate Herschell

June 22, 2023

Mother of three - Australia

(Picture from The morning after our waterbirth.)

"Sometimes it hits hard when you're at the end of your day feeling like the to-do list didn’t get done, but instead change your mindset to what you did do."

I’m Tate, Mama of 3 beautiful beach-loving babies. Originally from Vic but moved to Qld in the last couple of years and have never looked back. Our children are thriving and we just love it here, Blessed with a beautiful rainbow surprise in August last year. Cannot wait to see what this year brings. Prior to moving to Qld, I ran an Organic Raw Treats Business, (one day hopefully back up and running), and now I’m a mum who found her creative outlet through sharing parts of our life through Instagram.

What was your favourite thing about the newborn phase?

The cuddles, the noises, the holds, skin to skin, watching her with her dadda and her dotting brother & sister. Our birth was incredible, the whole newborn stage would have to be at the top of my fave stages.

What did you find challenging about being a new mother?

Finding time, we talk about this all the time, sometimes it hits hard when you're at the end of your day feeling like the to-do list didn’t get done but instead change your mindset to what you did do… (you kept three kids safe, feed and happy). Never feeling like you have enough time for all your babies, your partner, or yourself.

How were you supported during your postpartum period and what would you change if you could go back in time?

I have the best fiancé who was there every minute, supported me, was gentle and encouraging, and was just an all-around amazing dad and partner. I also had your beautiful book which was partly completed prior to birth, and also I went into this entire journey open, calm, and content (the first in all 3 pregnancies)—so recapping on pieces through your book, daily affirmations, deep breathing, and a whole lot of hugs in between.

If I could go back in time I would have prepped more food.

List your top 3 essentials for a new mother

1. Nursing shells & Nipple Balm (nipple shells for in-between feeds because those first few weeks are painful & hard).

2. A comfy chair/ space, some newborn feeds go for over an hour (well some of mine did between feeding, burping, feeding, etc) A comfy chair is a must.

3. Aftercare essentials are a must third time around and I’m sooooo beyond thankful I had adult nappies, wipes, sprays, gel pads, and compression shorts.

"…when you have that 5 minutes to yourself try doing something that lifts you up a bit, for me it was as simple as washing my hair (if i was lucky to have a solo shower)."

Are there any rituals or practices during your 4th trimester you'd like to share?

Not any specific rituals or practices more so, when you have that 5 minutes to yourself try doing something that lifts you up a bit, for me it was as simple as washing my hair (if I was lucky to have a solo shower), using a nice face oil before bed and my new found love of Gua Sha tool.

See our Instagram post here.