The postpartum period is a whirlwind of emotions and changes. While it’s a time to celebrate the new life you’ve brought into the world, it’s also a period of adjusting to the physical and emotional changes in your own body. Like many moms, I’ve struggled with accepting my postpartum body, and I want to share some postpartum body positivity tips that have helped me along the way.
9 Postpartum Body Positivity Tips for New Moms
1. Acknowledge the Miracle
First and foremost, your body has performed an incredible miracle. Growing and birthing a baby is no small feat, and it’s essential to recognize and celebrate this achievement. Whenever I feel down about my body, I remind myself of the amazing work it has done.
2. Be Kind to Yourself
It’s easy to be your harshest critic, but try to practice self-compassion. Your body has changed, and that’s okay. Treat yourself with kindness and patience, just as you would a dear friend. Whenever negative thoughts creep in, remind yourself of the strength and resilience your body has shown.
Practicing self-care and positive self-talk can be difficult, but is made easier with practice. Try body and self-love affirmations to get you started.
3. Set Realistic Expectations
Remember that your body won’t bounce back overnight. In fact, your body may never be the same.
Instead, set small, realistic goals for yourself, whether it’s a gentle exercise routine or simply taking time for self-care. Celebrate these small victories without fixating on an ideal body image.
4. Stay Active in Ways You Enjoy
Staying active is important, but it doesn’t mean you have to hit the gym hard. Find activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good.
Taking walks with their babies and doing light yoga have been favorite activities amongst my friends. Personally, I’ve found that lifting weights in the gym to be the most rewarding because I could put the kiddo in daycare and I stayed motivated by seeing results as I built muscle.
5. Focus on Nourishment, Not Dieting
Shift your focus from dieting to nourishing your body. Eat balanced meals that give you energy and make you feel good.
- Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains in your diet.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Listening to your body’s hunger and fullness cues can help you develop a healthier relationship with food.
Like your sweets?
I’ve found that by allowing myself a nightly treat, rather than trying to cut them out (reluctantly), I don’t tend to engorge myself on sweets. My nutritionist agreed that this was a great approach, only because I have learned to incorporate more protein into my diet and have cut my snacking down significantly since doing so.
6. Connect with Other Moms
You’re not alone in this journey. Joining a support group or an online community can provide encouragement and understanding. Sharing your experiences and hearing others’ stories can be incredibly comforting and empowering.
7. Appreciate Non-Scale Victories
Weight isn’t the only measure of health or progress. Appreciate non-scale victories, such as feeling more energetic, getting better sleep, or simply feeling more at ease in your skin. These victories are just as significant.
8. Dress for Confidence
Wear clothes that make you feel good about yourself. Dressing in comfortable, flattering outfits can boost your confidence and help you feel more positive about your body.
9. Seek Professional Help If Needed
If you find yourself struggling significantly with body image issues, it might be helpful to talk to a professional. A therapist specializing in postpartum mental health can provide the support and tools you need to navigate these feelings.
Loving your postpartum body can feel like a daunting task. By practicing self-compassion, setting realistic goals, staying active, and seeking support, you can begin to embrace the beautiful body that brought your baby into the world. Remember, you are not alone, and it’s okay to seek help and support along the way.
