Embracing the Journey: Reasons You DON'T Need Your 'Pre-baby' Body Back

I have so much to say about the postpartum period, and will get to more in good time, but I am going to focus on the idea of needing to get back the “pre-baby body” here. Bringing a new life into the world is a transformative experience that not only alters our physical bodies but also changes everything about how we live our lives from that moment forward. As a society, we often hear about the desire to get our "pre-baby" bodies back after childbirth. However, the focus needs to shift from trying to get our bodies to look the same after this incredible journey to embracing the changes and accepting that we are strong and powerful in new and amazing ways. Please remember you just grew and birthed a human being- you are a queen, a goddess, or whatever word you may choose you are AMAZING mama!

Hormonal Changes: The Real MVPs of Motherhood

Pregnancy triggers a cascade of hormonal changes in a woman's body, each playing a crucial role in supporting the growth and development of the baby. Estrogen and progesterone levels soar, contributing to the maintenance of the pregnancy and the development of the placenta. Meanwhile, the body produces relaxin, which helps relax the ligaments in the pelvic area inorder for it to expand to allow room for the growing baby. It also helps the body prepare for birth.

Postpartum, these hormones undergo significant fluctuations, affecting mood, energy levels, and even metabolism. Rather than viewing these changes as obstacles to overcome, why not shift our perspective to appreciate the intricate dance of hormones that makes the miracle of life possible. These hormonal shifts are a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the female body.

Your Body, a Miracle in Motion:

The ability to conceive and carry a child is an extraordinary feat that deserves admiration. Instead of fixating on returning to a preconceived notion of beauty, let's celebrate the strength, endurance, and adaptability our bodies demonstrate during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum- bringing our little loves into the world - this is true beauty! 

Consider the transformation your body underwent to accommodate the growing life within – from expanding organs to the stretching of the abdominal muscles. Acknowledging and embracing these changes as the body's ability to create life fosters a sense of gratitude and self-love.

Shifting Priorities:

Motherhood reshapes not only your body but also your priorities. The focus shifts from external appearances to the well-being of you and your child. Sleepless nights, endless diaper changes, and the emotional rollercoaster of parenthood become the new normal. In this whirlwind of experiences, it becomes extremely important to be taking care of yourself and getting the support you need- find your village! Focusing on rest, nutrition, gentle movement, connection and community support, and regulating your nervous system.

Embracing this shift in priorities allows you to appreciate the full spectrum of your experiences and accomplishments as a mother (as there are so many!), rather than measuring your worth solely by physical appearance. 

Shifting focus away from appearance and onto optimizing overall health and wellbeing postpartum is also key. The immediate postpartum is often a time of survival- trying to get as much rest as possible, getting quality nutrition, staying put at home, experiencing all the emotions and hormone shifts, protecting your physical body and your energy. If we can focus on giving our body and mind what it needs to recover and feel our best we will feel more confident in our bodies even if we do look different than before. 

Every Body is Different:

Just as every pregnancy is unique, so is the postpartum journey. Comparing your post-baby body to someone else's or to an idealized version of your former self can be discouraging and counterproductive. Every body responds differently to pregnancy, childbirth, and the subsequent recovery. 

Remember that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and the diversity of postpartum bodies should be celebrated. Rather than striving for an unrealistic standard, focus on nourishing your body, mind, and soul, recognizing the beauty in the uniqueness of your own journey. Social media can be a place you spend a lot of time scrolling during feedings or when you have a few quiet moments and it can be challenging not to compare yourself to other new moms and their post-birth shares and celebrations. If you find yourself feeling negatively about your journey or about your body from what you see online, remember that you can unfollow or mute people on your social media.

In motherhood, the emphasis should shift from "getting back" the pre-baby body to appreciating the incredible journey your body has undertaken and giving your body the support it needs in-order to feel your best. The hormonal changes, the miraculous ability to create life, and the shifts in priorities all contribute to a new sense of self – one that embraces the present and looks forward to the future with gratitude and love. Let's celebrate the strength, resilience, and beauty that radiate from the postpartum body, a testament to the incredible journey of motherhood. From one mama to another- you are amazing please don’t forget that! If you are struggling please seek support!