What could be more exciting than bringing a new child home? Now it's time to commit to some self-pampering; but I don't necessarily mean the kind that centers on a weekly spa treatment or getting a manicure with the girls. No, this is the kind that shows your commitment by practicing these tips throughout the long haul of parenthood.

• Stay motivated to keep fit. It is a fact that people who exercise are more likely to enjoy a better quality of life than their couch potato counterparts. On those days when you don't feel like exercising, but know you should, think of it in terms of your child's future; seen in this light, your exercise routine takes on a new importance. Keep a mental picture of you feeling and looking fit at your child's college graduation, wedding, or being there when he brings home his own new baby.

• Pamper your brain by keeping it active. When the daily grind of dirty diapers, baby talk and books with no more than three words on a page start to feel like they are closing in, it's time to challenge your brain's fitness. Just as in physical exercise, your brain needs stimulation. Accomplish this by making the following lifelong habits: crossword, sudoku, jigsaw and other puzzles; reading newspapers, books, magazines; learn new vocabulary words; write in a daily journal. These, and other pursuits, will keep your brain functioning at its peak, as will proper nutrition. Check with a healthcare professional before taking supplements.

• Talk to other adults. While your new child is worthy of being the center of your universe, increase your universe at least weekly by spending time with other adults to engage in conversations that step beyond the boundaries of parenting concerns. Or attend a program, class or lecture meant for adults that opens the door to a new interest for you.

• Eat more than leftover baby-food scraps. (I used to wonder how I gained so much weight if all I ate was leftover baby food.) Take in good nutrition. Drink lots of water. You may additionally want to include other healthy drinks such as herbal teas or whole fruit and/or vegetable juices. Add healthy proteins to your diet. Have you tried tofu yet? Tofu, a compete protein, is also high in calcium. Say you can't stand the taste? Well, tofu is basically tasteless, allowing it to absorb the flavors of whatever it is mixed with. Try it in a veggie stir fry with soy sauce for flavoring or add some edamame (soybeans) to your salads and soups.

• If you don't have one already, get a spiritual life. Keep connected to a higher meaning of life by finding a spiritual path that serves you. The secure feeling you'll get from a spiritual life will serve you when things are tough. Taking time each day for your inner life (what I have named, "Inner Fitness") is as important as taking time for your physical fitness. Even if you don't consider yourself an active member of a particular religious or spiritual practice, read something inspirational each day or meditate or pray to quiet your mind.