After delivering each of my four children, regaining my figure made it to my priority list about six weeks in to recovery. During those first six weeks, my only thought was survival. But, once a new life rhythm was attained, my mind focused on returning to my waiting wardrobe of pre-pregnancy clothing.
Getting back into shape is easier to do when you have a good handle on life with your new baby. It does take more time than you expect; typically, the nine months up and nine months down theory does hold true. Getting back the body you knew before your child was conceived takes concentrated effort and wise choices. Every baby will make the journey back a little more work than the one prior, but each time can be successful!
Breastfeeding – Sometimes It Helps!
Except for my second child, nursing dropped my initial pounds after each baby. For some women, breastfeeding has the opposite effect, and their bodies retain fat until the child is weaned. But, even though nursing helps the weight fall off for some, there is still extra skin, loss of muscle tone, shifting of hips, and other body changes.
Support – Birds of a Feather
Having friends and family with the same health goals will enable you to make better choices with what you eat. They will also encourage you when you reach plateau points in your exercise or provide childcare so you can concentrate.
Portion Size – It’s Just You Now!
Eating for two was your norm for those almost ten months of pregnancy, so it is important to begin relearning your body’s hunger and full signals. Overeating will only stall regaining your figure and make you feel sluggish and more tired than you already are.
Diet Choices – What Helps You?
Personally, when I start each morning with drinking sixty ounces of water, I not only tend to eat better throughout the day, I am also not as hungry. My cravings lean towards healthier foods, such as berries and bananas or cucumbers and carrots. Sometimes just some nitrate-free turkey meat dipped in mustard hits the spot too.
Learning what ingredients my body doesn’t tolerate well also helped significantly. When I cut out most grains and all gluten, my tummy shrunk the last few inches.
Exercise – Make It Part of Your Day
Exercise has to be a part of your weekly routine, or you will stalemate on your way to getting your body back. Along with swimming and running, I love zumba, and I try to go as often as I can. Stay young with your kids, too! When you go to the park or the pool, be the mom playing on the playground or in the pool.
Engage with your children, remain active, eat well, and enjoy the benefits of a fit life!