Baby is here, at long last! You’re so in love, SO tired, and so happy to finally have your body back to yourself.
But as we know, your adorable little inhabitant did not leave it the same way he/she found it.
You may be starting to think about trying to get your ‘pre-baby’ body back, so I wanted to offer some encouragement, some support, and a few tips around that.
First, don’t be in a hurry. I will never forget the feeling of horror I had when I delivered a baby for the first time and still looked six months pregnant afterwards.
‘Ummmm, excuse me….are you sure there’s not another one in there?!’
Now, after baby number three, I realize that it’s par for the course. It took nine months to get your body here, so naturally it will need ample time to bounce back.
There will also be many draws on your time and energy as a new mama. You don’t want to just add to the stress by trying to jump back into a diet or exercise too soon.
Secondly, give yourself some grace! This is SO important, mama.
Yes, there are pictures on social media of moms who seem to have magically transformed back into their former selves in record time, but that is far from the norm.
Everyone knows that this process takes a while, so relax, give yourself some time, and give yourself some grace. <3
Once you are ready to start implementing some healthier changes, here are a few tips you can start implementing now:
1) Don’t restrict your calories, especially if you are breastfeeding.
A much healthier (and longer lasting) way to lose weight is to focus on the quality of your food and not the quantity. Protein, fruits, and veggies should make up the bulk of your diet.
2) If you are feeling actual hunger, then EAT.
You need lots of energy and stamina to keep up with the demands of motherhood, so don’t starve yourself in the name of weight loss. Listen to your body. <3
3) Start with a lower impact fitness routine.
Yoga is fantastic for new mamas. Not only does it help relieve stress, but it can be super effective for toning, without the jarring effects of high impact exercise.Walking is also a great first step towards post-baby fitness, and it gets you both some fresh air.
4) Don’t forget to eat!
This sounds like a no-brainer, but there were many days as a new mom where I realized at about 7pm that I hadn’t eaten one bite of food. Set a timer if you need to, but don’t forget to fuel your body.
5) Stay hydrated.
Keep an insulated bottle of water (or two) out in plain sight, and take a big drink
every time you notice it. This is another thing that can massively affect your energy level.
And most importantly?
PLEASE don’t think it’s selfish in any way, shape, or form to take the time to take
care of yourself. You are better for them when you aren’t rundown, undernourished, and unhappy.
So take good care of that sweet baby’s mama. They love you, and they need you. <3
If you are interested in a structured program that was created specifically for mamas, I would love to invite you to mine. It is a six week one-of-a-kind healthy eating/self-care program that will totally change the way you ‘diet’. And what a beautiful change it is!
You can find it right here:
Cleaneo for Fat Loss
(Disclaimer:Always consult your physician before beginning a new diet or exercise program. None of the information above is meant to replace the advice of a medical professional. Always seek the counsel of your physician first and foremost.)
Contributed by Julie Sanford of Well Fed Families
Julie is the mother of three, ages 28, 21, and 6, and Gima (grandmom) to a five-year-old grandson. Over her 28 years of child-rearing she has been ALL the moms (single, married, stay-at-home, working, young, ‘mature’, struggling, stable, etc) and has faced every healthy eating challenge there is.
Now the founder of Well Fed Families, and author of the ‘Easy, Healthy Meals for the Tired-Ass Mom’ cookbook, Julie uses her real-life, family-raising experience to help other overwhelmed mamas get on a healthier track
Find Julie (and some awesome healthy recipes) on Facebook at www.facebook.com/wellfedfamilies
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