Your body, your one body that carried babies into this world. Your relationship with your body may have changed since having a baby. Maybe you look different, maybe your clothes don’t fit as comfortably, maybe you feel different… let’s face it, friends — you are different. And, guess what? That’s OK!
You’re flooded with photos of moms “bouncing back” and Instagram posts offering diet secrets that can help you “lose all the baby fat”. It’s just another gut punch of where you used to be… where you should be.
Stepping in front of the mirror, wondering where she had gone. Wondering why it feels just so much harder to love your body the way you used to, the way you still deserve to.
Hard stop. There’s still time to love on you — plenty of it — and the time is now.
If it’s feeling especially hard lately to love your figure, here are 5 straightforward ways to love your body — exactly as it is:
“Use the good soap”
I first heard this quote from one of my favorite skincare lines, Lather and Soul, and it stuck with me ever since. I feel lovely when I use my “nice” products in the shower… when I really treat myself to a special experience. That means using the “good soap” that maybe I put away for another month, or even a gift for someone else. Love your body by treating it and yourself to the joy that comes from using the good stuff the next time you bathe. P.S. You should totally check out Lather and Soul for the most beautiful handmade soaps.
Get a bra-fitting
Recently, I visited The O Shop in Worcester for a custom bra fitting. It had been years. Two kids later and, well, my boobs weren’t the same anymore. IYKYK. It was time I figured out what my size was now. I can’t tell you how much more confident I felt in my skin and my clothes after. Do I dare say it… even sexier? Yes, even sexier.
Invest in some new clothes — in your current size
If you’ve gained weight, stop putting constant pressure on yourself to squeeze into your pre-kid size. In no way am I saying don’t work out or set fitness goals because a healthy you is beautiful — there is more on that later. All I’m saying is, embrace your body as it is today and treat yourself to new pieces that speak to you and your evolved style.
If it’s in the budget, check out clothing subscription boxes like Nuuly, which has been a new favorite thing of mine. It’s actually been fun getting dressed for work in outfits that are a little bolder and out-of-the-norm for me… and I kid you not, I always get compliments on my Nuuly pieces, which in turn, makes me feel really good.
Surround yourself with supportive friends and family
Keeping your innermost circle full of people who get you — the real you — no matter the shape of your body, is what it’s all about. Ditch the negativity. You don’t need it. You need encouraging words, supportive energy, and individuals who see you for you. A quick reminder that you should also be ditching any negative self-talk. Friend, you deserve so much better than that.
Find a form of movement you love
Strength is sexy. When you feel stronger and healthier by working out, a sense of confidence exudes. Exercise isn’t everyone’s favorite thing, but after you establish a consistent routine (even 2-3 times/week of walking), you’ll stand a little taller and smile a little bigger. Taking care of your health is so very important. That mind-body connection is no joke!
So, there you have it! Five ways to love your body as the hardworking, deserving, and gorgeous mama that you are. At the end of the day, this is your one body. Treat it with love. That’s all it wants. And that’s everything you deserve.
