Motherhood can be lonely.
There, I said it.
Even with people around who love you—your partner, family, friends—somehow, it can still feel isolating. It's not constant, but there are those moments, like in the middle of the night when you’re up for the fourth time, and you think to yourself, "How am I doing this again?"
Or maybe it’s when you finally carve out a second for yourself, but instead of soaking in that precious ‘me time,’ you’re tending to your little one’s needs. As much as we love our children, the relentless demands of motherhood can make us feel like we’re on an island, alone.
The truth is, women thrive in community. We need a support system—people who understand, who can lift us up when we're down, and who won’t judge us for feeling overwhelmed. And who better to understand the rollercoaster of motherhood than other moms? They get it because they’re living it too.
That’s why I’m so passionate about creating a space designed just for us—a community where we can connect, share, and support one another through this incredible, challenging, exhausting, and beautiful journey. Whether you’re navigating the early days of motherhood, juggling work and family, or trying to prioritize your own health amidst the chaos, this community is here for you.
In this space, there’s no judgment, no competition, just real women supporting each other. We’ll talk about everything from our health and wellness to the struggles and joys of being a mom. This is your place to be heard, to ask questions, to share advice, and to simply be yourself.
Because, as much as we love our little ones, we need to take care of ourselves too. We need to feel connected, supported, and understood. And most importantly, we need to remember that we’re not alone.
So, whether you’re a new mom, a seasoned pro, or somewhere in between, I invite you to join us. Let’s lift each other up, celebrate our wins, and be there for one another when things get tough. Because together, we can thrive in this journey called motherhood.
I did NOT want to give birth in the hospital.
It wasn't always like this for me. I used to think, “Sign me up for anything that removes all pain and hurries this up. Bonus for instant pre-baby body!” Obviously, some of that is just not really possible, and other aspects might be for certain women, BUT...
The reason I decided against it was because nearly 60% of women at hospital births receive at least one medical intervention during labor, such as induction, epidural anesthesia, or C-section, even though many of these interventions are not always medically necessary. This high rate of intervention can often lead to a cascade of additional procedures and potential complications, making the birthing process more medicalized than it might need to be.
Why does this matter? For me, it was about wanting to have more control over my birthing experience. I wanted to avoid unnecessary interventions that might complicate things further. I wanted a birth that felt natural, empowering, and tailored to my body’s needs.
Here’s the deal: every single body is different, but there are some fairly compelling numbers when it comes to the birthing system. For instance, women who have continuous support during labor, such as a midwife or doula, are less likely to need pain medication or other interventions. They also report a higher satisfaction with their birth experience.
Choosing not to give birth in a hospital was about staying empowered, staying informed, and advocating for the birth experience I deserved. Here are a few tips if you’re considering a similar path:
- Do Your Research: Understand the pros and cons of hospital births versus home or birthing center options. Look at the statistics and decide what feels right for you.
- Find a Supportive Team: Whether it’s a midwife, doula, or supportive family members, having a team that respects your birth plan is crucial.
- Prepare for Flexibility: While it’s great to have a plan, remember that birth can be unpredictable. Be open to changes if they’re truly necessary for your and your baby’s health.
- Trust Your Body: Your body was made for this. Trust in its ability to birth your baby. Stay in tune with what feels right for you.
Every birth experience is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. The key is to stay informed and make the choices that are best for you and your baby.
Short story, stay empowered, stay informed, and advocate for the birth experience you deserve.
Your birthing experience is just that—yours. Make it a story you’ll look back on with pride and empowerment. You’ve got this!
The postpartum experience is a wild ride, and there's one aspect that often gets overlooked: that first bleed after having a baby. It’s tricky.
For me, I was blessed with my cycle returning after about eight months and staying very regular ever since. But I know that’s not everyone’s story. There are so many factors that influence when your period will return postpartum!
Let’s break it down:
- Hormones and Breastfeeding: Your period might not come back right away, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Lactation suppresses the hormones that trigger ovulation, which can delay the return of your menstrual cycle.
- Changes in Your Cycle: When your period does return, it might be different than it was before. Heavier, lighter, longer, shorter—your body is readjusting. The changes are typically temporary, but it’s a good idea to keep an eye on them.
- Track Your Cycle: Keeping track of your cycle is crucial. Not only does it help you understand what’s happening with your body, but it also allows you to discuss any concerns with your doctor effectively.
Let’s be real—there are a lot of emotions around this. Depending on when your cycle returns, you might have been without a bleed for almost two years! That’s a long time, and getting back into the monthly flow (pun intended) with a little one attached to you can look very different.
Before my baby, I was in tune with my cycle. I knew exactly what phase I was in and supported my body with the right foods, essential oils, specific movements, and more. Now? Without my app to help me track, I’d be lost.
So, here’s what I’m focusing on to get back on track:
- Using a Cycle Tracking App: This is a lifesaver. It helps me keep tabs on where I am in my cycle and what my body needs at each phase.
- Supporting My Body: I’m getting back into the rhythm of eating foods that support my cycle, using essential oils, and engaging in the right kind of movement for each phase.
- Self-Care and Awareness: Understanding these aspects of my cycle helps me navigate postpartum recovery with more confidence and clarity.
Remember, everyone’s journey is unique, and it’s okay if yours doesn’t look like anyone else’s. The important thing is to listen to your body and give yourself grace as you navigate this new chapter.
Having a little one is seriously such a blessing, and I’m beyond grateful for him every single day. But let’s be real—parenthood is an emotional rollercoaster. Some days, everything clicks, and it’s all sunshine and rainbows. Other days, it feels like you’re stuck in the middle of a storm with no umbrella. And then there are those days when it’s both amazing and rough at the same time.
It's okay to admit that sometimes having time alone is all you want. That doesn’t mean you don’t love your child. It means you’re human, and you're dealing with a whole new level of responsibility. Parenting can be exhausting, exhilarating, overwhelming, and joyful—all at once.
If you’ve been finding it hard to navigate these big feelings, you’re not alone. It’s not always easy to dive into these emotions when you’re just trying to get through the day. But it’s important to find ways to embrace them without losing it. Here are three strategies that I’ve found helpful:
Whether it’s a stroll through a park, a hike in the woods, or a walk along the beach, being outside can do wonders for your mood. The fresh air, the sounds of birds, the rustling of leaves—all of it can help you reset. I often pair this with a walk or a run, because getting your body moving is another great way to boost those feel-good vibes.
Music has a unique ability to evoke emotions and transport us to different places and times. If you’re feeling down or overwhelmed, put on your favorite song and let it work its magic. Blast it in your living room and have a dance party. Your little one will love it, and so will you. The energy from the music can lift your spirits and give you that extra push to get through the day.
Food is more than just fuel—it’s a way to nourish both your body and soul. When you’re busy with a baby, it’s easy to grab whatever’s convenient, but taking the time to make a meal or a snack that you actually enjoy can be a game-changer. Choose something that tastes good and makes you feel good. Maybe it’s a healthy salad with all your favorite toppings or a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. Whatever it is, savor each bite and let yourself enjoy the moment.
Remember, you don’t have to go through this journey alone. Share your struggles and victories with other parents, and lean on your support system. And when things get tough, know that it’s okay to take a step back, breathe, and try one of these strategies. Parenthood is a wild ride, but with a little patience and a lot of love, you’ve got this.
Growing a human is one of the most precious gifts your body can give you. It's a journey filled with wonder, excitement, and challenges. But after the intense process of childbirth, it's crucial to give back to your body, allowing it to heal and rebuild. As a new parent, finding time for self-care might seem like an impossible task. Between diaper changes, feedings, and sleepless nights, it's easy to put your own needs on the back burner. However, taking care of yourself is not a luxury—it's a necessity. Here's what I've been focusing on to give back to my body after birthing my baby.
✨One of the most important aspects of postpartum recovery is nourishing your body with healthy foods. I’ve been focusing on a Wahls Protocol-style diet with some slight variations. This means plenty of fruits and vegetables, along with a good amount of protein to help rebuild muscle and tissue after birth. I also add healthy fats to support brain function and hormone balance.
It's crucial to find what works for you. Every body is different, and certain organs might need more attention than others post-baby. If you're experiencing digestive issues, for example, you might need to adjust your fiber intake. The key is to listen to your body and be flexible with your approach. Don't be afraid to experiment and see what makes you feel your best.
✨Rest; notice I didn't say "sleep." Getting a full night's sleep is a luxury most new parents don't have. However, rest is more than just sleep—it's about giving your body and mind a break. I find that closing my eyes and focusing on my breath can be incredibly restorative. It helps calm my nervous system and reduces stress, especially after a long day of work or caring for the baby.
This simple practice can be done anywhere—while rocking your baby to sleep, during a quick break at work, or even while you're waiting for the water to boil for quinoa. Resting your mind and body, even for a few minutes, can make a significant difference in your overall well-being.
✨Movement is essential for both physical and mental health, but every woman’s experience after childbirth is different. Some people can jump back into their workout routines, while others need more time to heal. As someone who enjoys working out (most of the time), I found this part interesting. Currently, I'm much closer to my pre-baby workout routine than I have been in a while. I aim to get movement in 5-6 days a week, whether it's a Peloton ride, a run with my baby in the stroller, Pilates, weight training, or something else entirely.
Movement brings me immense joy, but I know that’s not the case for everyone. If you're struggling to find the motivation or energy, start small. A gentle walk around the block or some light stretching can be a great way to ease back into it. The most important thing is to find activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good.
❤️Giving back to your body after childbirth is a process. It takes time, patience, and a lot of self-compassion. Whether you're focusing on nourishing foods, finding moments of rest, or incorporating movement into your day, remember that you’re doing your best.
Parenthood is a journey with its ups and downs, but by taking care of yourself, you're better equipped to take care of your little one. And that’s the most precious gift of all.🙏
