Throughout pregnancy I watched as my body morphed into something completely different. I was amazed at its ability to grow and care for a new life but that didn’t keep me from shedding some tears over how unrecognizable this new body was becoming.
I saw my stretched belly protruding and slowly being covered in red streaks. My breasts were also swelling, stretching, and getting distinct stripes. I was beginning to wonder how in the world my body was going to be normal again after all of this? Would I be able to feel confident and attractive again?
And the answer is yes, but slowly and I’m still working on it. I’m finding my new normal. Sometimes I still look at myself in the mirror and see the damaged skin and want to cry. But then I remind myself of everything my body went through and I’m impressed I made it through with just loose skin and some marks.
Plus…It’s only been 3 months! It takes our bodies nearly 10 months to grow a human and then we expect everything to just go back to the way it was. It takes time momma. I have to remind myself of this. Even though we may be able to go about everyday life normally just days or weeks after giving birth, our bodies are still in a state of healing for nearly a year.
So I’m finding ways to love on myself, and you should too.
I walked around for weeks with my hair in a messy bun and wore nothing but gym clothes. Mostly because I stayed at home the majority of the time, but also because inwardly I felt dumpy so my outward appearance became… well dumpy. Allowing yourself to remain in this state does nothing to help your confidence or inspire you to get back to your new normal.
These are some ways I have a chosen to care for myself, try these out or find your own. Just remember to take time for you. Whether it’s while baby is taking a nap or you need to have someone watch her for you.
- Get yourself some new clothes that fit well. My husband took me shopping recently and this really helped give me a boost. You don’t need a whole new wardrobe, just a few pieces to help you feel good about how you look in them.
- Sleep in. If your like me you are up multiple times throughout the night feeding and caring for your new baby. Several times a week my husband will get up and take care of our little one until she needs to nurse. This is huge! Sometimes I’ll get several hours extra sleep and our healing bodies need this. So if you have someone to do this for you then ask them if they aren’t already.
- Take some time to clear your head. Whether it’s a guided meditation, prayer, reading a book or going for a walk it is important to get some quiet time to yourself and clear your mind.
- Go pamper yourself. You just grew and birthed a human being, you deserve this momma. Have someone watch your little one and go get a manicure, pedicure, massage, or a new hair style whatever makes you feel like a queen.
- Have simple things you can do at home. I like keeping bath bombs, bubble bath, and face masks handy. So after baby is put to bed, I can have my own mini Spa session whenever I feel I really need it.
- Get your blood flowing. Go for a walk, stretch, do some yoga or Pilates. This will do wonders for not only your body but also your mind.
These are just some suggestions, the main point here is that you find time for yourself.
Once you start loving your body the way it is now, getting back to you optimal body will become easier.
We take care of the things we love and tend to let things we don’t care about fall by the way side. This is so true when it comes to our bodies. If you love yourself then taking care of you will just come naturally. It will take time and effort but YOU WILL GET THERE.
PLEASE NOTE: Following and/or participating in my blog and any tips or advice is solely your decision. I recommend checking with your physician prior to following any of the advice that I share. I am not a health care professional, personal trainer, nutritionist, or counselor. I provide the advice, meals, tips, etc. that have worked for me based on my personal experiences.