How To Embrace the Physical Changes of Motherhood

When you think about motherhood, chances are your mind goes to raising children. While this is certainly the case, there's a lot more to motherhood that doesn't always take center stage. Becoming a mother is a life-changing experience. It changes everything. Your routines, your priorities, and your lifestyle.

In addition to these adjustments that come with motherhood, physical changes are also part of this transition. Some moms feel as though their body is foreign to them, that it's no longer their own. Others might mourn for the body they had before pregnancy and childbirth. Others take these changes in stride. Some experience a little bit of everything. No matter where you are in your journey into motherhood, working on embracing the physical changes is an important step. Here are some starting points to help you along.

Prioritize Activity 

Exercise and movement are two of the most amazing things you can do for your body and mind. Not only can they make you physically healthier and stronger, but they can also boost your mental well-being. As a mom, especially, your mental health is something you need to look out for. 

Keep in mind that your goal doesn't need to be "bouncing back" to your old weight or size. While this may happen in time, it's not realistic, healthy or safe to make it your focus — especially in early postpartum. Overdoing exercise can negatively impact your hormonal health, which can possibly decrease your breast milk production or cause thyroid issues to develop.

However, gentle exercises are wonderful and just as effective for improving your fitness. For instance, if you're wondering how to get rid of back fat, there are plenty of postpartum-friendly routines to follow that can help you to build your strength and target areas you'd like to tone up while still being kind to your newly changed body. Don't forget to make lifestyle adjustments as well, such as incorporating more protein into your meals and making sure you're properly hydrated.

Shop for Your Body 

If you've tried to slip into your pre-pregnancy jeans, chances are they fit differently than they did several months ago. Maybe they don't fit at all. Now's the time to purchase a few new pieces of clothing that will fit you well during the season you're in.

The most important thing to remember here is to shop for the body you have at the moment, not the body you might want to have. Owning clothing that fits you comfortably and makes you feel good will boost your confidence. It can also make you feel more put together, which will go a long way in setting a good tone for the day ahead. 

It's also important to remind yourself that everyone's journey is different. Watch the pressure you're putting on yourself — and remember, the size of your jeans is irrelevant. What's important is that you're comfortable and that what you're wearing makes you feel good about yourself.

Honor Your Body 

Have you taken the time lately to think about what your body just accomplished? You created your child through nine months of nourishment and care. You delivered your child into the world, your body is healing, and you're taking on your new role as a mom. It's an intense, life-changing process. 

Are you being kind to yourself? Are you acknowledging what's happened, and appreciating your body for the work it's done (and is still doing)? Are you embracing this season of your life, rather than trying to speed through to the next phase? 

Slowing down as much as you can is one of the most wonderful things you can do for yourself during this time, and it will also help you to notice how amazing your body is. Even if you're not happy with how you look and feel, try your hardest to give yourself grace. Make little changes every day. They'll add up to something great.

Embracing the physical changes of motherhood will be different for every woman. As long as you're kind to yourself and making realistic choices and goals, you should notice an improvement overall.