5 tips on how to find confidence in your body after having a baby
finding confidence IN YOUR BODY after having a baby
Congratulations on your newborn baby! The first few weeks with a newborn baby can be very busy. Adjusting to motherhood involves many changes, such as taking on a new role and finding a routine that works for both you and your baby. As a new mom, you may be breastfeeding frequently, changing diapers, and struggling to get some rest. You may also experience post-natal physical changes that impact your self-esteem and body image. As a mom of two, I was there too. It’s really hard to accept those post-partum changes and even harder to shift from not liking your post-partum body to loving it again. Want to learn how to reconnect with your body and like your reflection in the mirror again? Keep reading!
5 steps to love and appreciate your body
in post-partum
These everyday steps helped me if not to get back my pre-kids shape but at least to be comfortable with my appearance.
1. Find things that make you feel good and beautiful
My first advice, don’t wear the clothes you were wearing before your pregnancy especially if the difference in how they fit before and after makes you frustrated. Find clothes which fit your body in a flattering way. Surround yourself with things that make you feel good about yourself, whether it’s a favorite piece of jewelry, a make-up product you love, a new bra, or a hairstyle. And there is one thing to get rid of at least for the first months – your scales! Don’t get into a routine of measuring and weighing your body too often. Instead, give your body and mind time to adjust.
2. Get enough sleep
Lack of sleep can take a major toll on your physical and mental health. Also, it can make you feel more stressed and overwhelmed. One of the most common pieces of advice for new moms is to “sleep when your baby sleeps”. It was so tempting for me though to do something else other than sleeping when my baby was napping. I used to have a list of home tasks, emails, and other things to do during those 30 or 45 minutes of my baby’s nap. But at some point, I realized that by sleeping when my baby sleeps, I could get some much-needed rest and somewhat recharge my batteries. It is also important to remember that sleep deprivation is a temporary issue. Time flies fast, and it will get easier as the baby grows and develops a more predictable sleep routine.
3. Exercise regularly
Exercise can be a great way for new mothers to get some physical activity, relieve stress, and boost their energy levels. However, finding the time and motivation to exercise can be a challenge, especially with a newborn. One way to make exercise a part of your routine is to incorporate it into your baby’s schedule. For example, a purchase of a jogging stroller was life-changing for me. The stroller was so much easier to push and navigate than a regular one, so I was jogging several times a day for shorter distances while my baby was napping in the stroller.
Another great opportunity to gain some confidence and to make my day better was joining a post-partum exercise class. There are many great yoga and Pilates studios which specialize in prenatal and postnatal movement and hold classes for both mamas and babies in Toronto. Check out these locations: Yoga Mamas, Mighty Mom, and The Pink Studio in the East End, Mommy Connections in Midtown Toronto, Fit Mama Training in Toronto West. Some studios (e.g. Momzone Fitness) offer both personal training and virtual group lessons.
It is also important to listen to your body and to start slowly. Don’t be afraid to modify exercises or take breaks as needed, and remember that every little bit of activity counts.
4. Take care of yourself
Make sure to set aside time for self-care, whether it’s getting a massage, going for a manicure, or simply taking a relaxing bath. I started to practice facial massage in the first months after giving birth and discovered that it not only has a good impact on my skin quality but also a great tool for stress-relief and relaxation. Taking care of yourself can help you feel rejuvenated and more able to handle the demands of parenting.
5. Eat a balanced diet:
A balanced diet provides you with the essential energy and nutrients that you need for good health. Focus on incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals, have healthy snack options, and limit your intake of processed and sugary foods.
It is also important to be kind to ourselves and to focus on caring not only for our newborn but also for ourselves too. If the concept of ‘loving’ your postpartum body doesn’t really work for you, keep in mind that self-love is not only about appearance but about gratitude as well. Your body did a great job during your pregnancy and child’s birth. It is a good idea to begin by striving towards showing respect and gratitude towards it. Remember that every mother’s journey is unique, and that it is okay to take things one day at a time.
If you are a mom-to-be or a new mom and would like to preserve the first precious moments of your motherhood journey, don’t hesitate and contact me here for a newborn or baby photography session.
