“Most people will warn you about the sleepless nights, the constant diaper changes and the non stop cries. What they fail to mention is something way far more important than all of that. Yes, those things will happen, but in the midst of that, you will be getting to know 2 new people. Your newborn and YOURSELF. I think one of the hardest things to deal with through pregnancy and even after (for me at least) was getting used to my new body, my new self. No one prepares you to feel and see yourself differently.
The first weeks after giving birth I felt strange. I couldn’t recognize myself, the old me. It’s a weird feeling to still see a belly with no baby in it for a few weeks after birth. No one prepares you for dealing with figuring out your new identity while you take care of a brand new baby.
I have women constantly asking me how did you “snap back”?! Truth is I didn’t and I probably never will 🤷🏻♀️ my belly isn’t toned, my breasts will never perk up the same, and the dark circles under my eyes might never go away. I too have my insecurities about those things. But then I remember what this body did and I couldn’t be more proud. My belly carried my greatest joy for nine whole months, my breasts keep my child fed and my dark circles are here to remind me that even in the late hours of the night that little girl is counting on me.
I’m not here to tell anyone to push their own insecurities aside, but that’s easier said than done. I will say, be gentle on yourself. A few extra pounds are okay and working to get rid of them is okay too. But never get to a point where you don’t feel enough or feel like you are not meeting the expectation to “snap back”. You have done a great thing bringing life into this world. It doesn’t matter how long it takes you to find balance between loving yourself and taking action to see the woman you want to be. Take your time. It isn’t a race, it’s a journey.”
Instagram: @curlswithcoral
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