Reclaiming Your Glow: Tips to Help You Bounce Back After Having a Baby

Bringing a new life into the world is a monumental experience that also brings significant changes. There can be a lot of pressure to “bounce back” to who you used to be, both physically and mentally. But the truth is that becoming a mother is all about transformation, and the key is not necessarily returning to the past, but working toward who you want to be in the future.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of postpartum weight loss and returning to your pre-pregnancy self, know that you’re not alone. In this post, we’ll share some practical tips to help you reclaim your glow and feel more confident after having a baby, focusing on both physical and emotional recovery.

Finding Your Old Self

When you’re in the trenches with postpartum bleeding, leaky boobs, and sleepless nights, it can be easy to wish you could just get back to feeling “normal.” Just don’t overlook the opportunity to celebrate the amazing things your body has accomplished. Instead of looking at your body as an enemy to be overcome, try to view it as a partner and ally in your journey to motherhood.

As you focus on recovery, it’s important to set realistic expectations. Did you know it takes about six weeks for the uterus to shrink back down after childbirth? So don’t panic if others seem to have better results with postpartum weight loss—understand that everyone’s recovery timeline is different, and that’s perfectly okay.

Moving Toward Physical Recovery

While it’s important to embrace your body and the changes it has gone through, there is also nothing wrong with wanting to feel physically strong and healthy. Here are some tips to help you move toward physical recovery and postpartum weight loss:

Gentle Postpartum Activity

Starting with gentle exercises can significantly aid in physical recovery. Think about light activities like walking, stretching, or postpartum yoga. These exercises can help improve circulation, increase energy levels, and gradually restore muscle tone. Remember, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise routine.

Gradual Weight Loss

When it comes to postpartum weight loss, slow and steady wins the race. Aim for gradual weight loss instead of crash diets, which can be harmful to both you and your baby, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Focus on balanced meals, and look for easy ways to pack in some extra nutrients, whether that’s a tasty vitamin drink mix or a handful of seeds on top of your salad.

The Importance of Rest and Sleep

Sleep might feel like a distant memory, but it’s vital for your physical and mental recovery. While “sleep when the baby sleeps” might not be the easiest advice to follow, do find ways to make your rest a priority. Lack of sleep can affect your mood and cognitive function, and a well rested momma is better equipped to take care of her little ones—and herself.

Breastfeeding Benefits

Breastfeeding is known to provide numerous health benefits for both mom and baby. In addition to promoting bonding and providing great nutrition, it also helps with postpartum weight loss, as nursing burns extra calories and promotes uterus shrinkage. So if breastfeeding is an option for you and your little one, enjoy the many benefits it has to offer.

Nurturing Your Emotional Recovery

Taking care of your mental and emotional health is just as important as physical recovery and postpartum weight loss.  Here are some tips to help you on your journey:

Self-Care Practices

Incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine can help you manage stress and improve your mood. This could be anything from taking a warm bath, trying out meditation, taking a nap, or even asking your partner to take the baby out for a few hours so you can have the house to yourself without anyone depending on you.

Reclaim Your Identity

Try looking for ways to reconnect with your old self. This doesn’t mean trying to fit into your pre-pregnancy jeans or squeezing in a workout when you barely have time to shower. Instead, focus on small activities that bring you joy and make you feel like yourself again, such as listening to your favorite music while nursing, reading a book, or returning to a forgotten hobby.

Seeking Support

Being a new mom can feel overwhelming at times, and that’s perfectly normal. Don’t hesitate to seek support from family, friends, or professional counselors. Sharing your feelings and challenges can be incredibly therapeutic. Joining a postpartum support group can also be beneficial, allowing you to connect with other new mothers going through similar experiences.

Practical Tips for Everyday Life

If you’re having a hard time with specific ways to work toward postpartum weight loss and overall recovery, try incorporating these tips into your daily routine:

• Maintain Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for recovery, especially if you are breastfeeding. If you’re struggling to get enough ounces in, try adding a tasty vitamin mix to make hydration more fun, with the bonus of extra nutrients.
• Consume Nutrient-Rich Foods: Focus on incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals. These foods will provide the nutrients your body needs to heal and improve energy levels while supporting postpartum weight loss.
• Understand That Recovery is a Gradual Process: Recognize that both physical and mental recovery takes time. Be patient with yourself and start with small, manageable goals, embracing the journey to regaining your strength and well-being.
• Incorporate Short Breaks for Yourself: It’s important to carve out time for short breaks throughout your day, even if it’s just a few minutes to breathe deeply, enjoy a warm cup of tea, or try a five minute workout. These small moments can provide a much-needed respite from the demands of motherhood.
• Celebrate the Small Wins: Don’t forget to celebrate your progress, no matter how small it may seem, even if that’s simply managing a walk around the block without feeling exhausted. Every step toward recovery is worth celebrating.

Prioritize Your Health with WM Nutrition 

Remember that reclaiming your glow after having a baby is not about trying to fit into societal standards or going back to who you used to be. It’s about embracing the beautiful transformation into motherhood and becoming the best version of who you are today. If you’re looking for an extra boost in your recovery journey, WM Nutrition offers a variety of products to help support women’s health. Check out our collection of products specifically designed for women, and prioritize your health as you continue on this incredible journey.