You just have to open the Instagram timeline, and there you see them: the #fitmoms. Tight bellies, sports leggings, a smoothie in hand, and the baby on the hip. "Back in shape!" three weeks after giving birth. And while I have nothing but love for women who feel strong: I think a different message is much more important.
Because do you know what is really important after giving birth? Rest. Recovery. Taking care of yourself from the inside out.
The pressure to 'bounce back'
We live in a culture where women not only have to give birth to a baby, but also preferably have to 'bounce back' to their old body, their work, their social life in no time. As if nothing has happened. While... something enormous has happened. You have given birth to a human being. Your body has been busy for months building, growing, carrying, and birthing. You have literally been reborn, as a mother.
And that takes time.
Why rest is more important than dieting
Research shows that rest and good sleep are crucial for recovery after childbirth. And let's be honest: sleeping is rarely optimal during this phase. (Sleep deprivation is itself a stress factor that affects your weight, your hormones, and your mood.)
➡ Studies show that chronic sleep deprivation increases the hormone ghrelin which makes you hungrier and leptin decreases which makes you feel full less quickly.
➡ Also, cortisol, your stress hormone, rises with fatigue and that not only increases appetite but also leads to fat storage, especially around your belly.
➡ So no: it's not just willpower. Your body asks needs rest. Not a crash diet.
And then we haven't even talked about breastfeeding, the recovery of your pelvic floor, your hormonal balance, and the emotional rollercoaster you suddenly find yourself on.
Moving? Yes. Performing? Not necessary.
Movement is indeed good. Just getting fresh air, walking, stretching can help your body recover. Think of short walks, a stroll in the sunshine, your baby in a carrier. Not because you need to burn calories now, but because your body and mind will be happy about it.
Only after a few months (and with approval from a professional) can you think about targeted weight loss if that feels right for you. And even then: let yourself be guided. A dietitian, pelvic physiotherapist, or postpartum coach can offer much more than an influencer with a detox program.
What does a mother really need?
- Sufficient rest (as much as possible)
- Good nutrition (think: nourishing, not: restrictive)
- Loving movement
- A safety net of people who listen to you
- And above all: kindness to oneself
You don't have to go back to your old body. You have changed inside and out. That can be visible. Focus on being healthy, not on being 'tight'. Because a mother who feels good, who takes care of herself, who gradually regains her energy... that is truly powerful.
Do you want to know more about how to take good care of yourself after giving birth? And how to give happiness and health more space, without neglecting yourself? I would love to help you with that. My online childbirth course and recovery course provide you and your baby with a foundation you can build on for years!
