2 Years Postpartum
Happy birthday, Daisy! My youngest baby turned 2 yesterday, which means I’m officially 2 years postpartum.
Having been through birth and recovery twice now, I know how challenging it is to balance work, family, and physical and mental health.
I say this a lot, and I’m saying it again because it’s true: our modern society is not set up to help parents, especially working mothers. Many women have no paid maternity leave. Post-birth complications like hernias, PPD, and diastasis recti are common, but not often discussed. Many parents lack adequate support systems and childcare is astronomically expensive. New mothers are tired and hurting and expected to hold it all together.
This stage in a woman’s life is beautiful, but very, very hard. Here are a few of my thoughts on postpartum weight loss.
It takes a long time to feel like “yourself” again.
Try not to get caught up with timelines for weight loss or recovery. Honestly, the recovery and body recomposition process can take YEARS. Each time I’ve had a baby, it’s taken me a solid year to feel like myself again. And another year after that before I feel like I’m back to my pre-pregnancy strength levels.
your body will be different, and that’s ok.
Despite what society says, you don’t need to “bounce back” to your former size or build. Your body will probably be different than it was, anyways. Loose skin and stretch marks are normal. Your hips might get wider. And I just learned at the eye doctor yesterday that even your vision can change after having a baby. Learn to accept these many changes and celebrate the amazing thing your body did.
You’re allowed to skip the gym if you’re too tired.
Motherhood is rewarding, but can be very tiring. Take rest days as you need them. Care for your mental health. Set the expectation that setbacks will happen. As long as you always get back on track, you’ll reach your goals.
focus on Losing weight the healthy way.
The best way to lose “baby weight” is the same advice I’d give non-pregnant clients: prioritize your protein, eat balanced meals, rest properly, and strength train 4 times a week. Then, rinse and repeat for years.
Moms (and dads), I see you out there juggling it all. You’re doing a great job. Giving birth is an amazing, life-changing event and you should be proud of yourself no matter what.
Thank you for reading, I appreciate you being here. Please follow along on IG @haileighsenatore and TikTok @fitwithhaileigh. Have a great weekend. <3
#postpartum
#postpartumjourney
