Reclaiming Your Identity: Navigating Motherhood and Self-Growth

Written by Rosie Buckley

Becoming a parent is a journey that can bring all sorts of changes. From physical developments that can come with pregnancy, to the emotional shifts, there can be a lot to get used to. The first year of motherhood can be a rollercoaster but it’s the greatest ride.

Reconnecting with Yourself ☁️

The process of rediscovering your individuality after becoming a parent can be challenging, but it’s also rewarding. Here are some ways to navigate this journey:

• Understanding your evolved identity: Motherhood does not erase who you were before; it adds new layers to your identity. Use the wisdom gained from your pregnancy journey to better understand who you are.
• Processing an IVF journey: If you conceived through in vitro fertilisation, give yourself time as you recover both emotionally and physically. Some people find that the stress of fertility treatments and heightened expectations can affect their well-being. Seeking support in these days can help you along the way.
• Make time for hobbies: It’s easy to become engrossed by the responsibilities of being a mother. Don’t forget to make time for yourself by enjoying hobbies that you used to before becoming a parent. Finding new hobbies and interests can be an exciting journey as well.
• C-section recovery: If you had a caesarean birth, allow yourself grace during the healing process. Physical recovery can take time, and emotional adjustments are just as important. Prioritize rest, follow your doctor’s recommendations, and ask for help when needed.
• Set personal goals: Making goals for yourself can be used as a time for self- reflection and discovering yourself again.
  

Embracing Postpartum Body Changes 🌿

Many women look at their postpartum body changes, and they feel unhappy – but it doesn’t have to be this way. It’s sometimes easier said than done, but try and change your perspective and appreciate the amazing work that your body has done.

• Practice self-love: Remember that it can take your body time to recover, and that’s okay. Focus on loving yourself and appreciating who you are. There are many ways of practising self-love which can make you feel warm inside. This includes taking a long shower, doing a cucumber face mask, and repeating positive mantras to yourself.
• Do gentle exercises: As well as appreciating your body, doing gentle exercises is also important to ensure you stay active. Walking/ jogging with your baby is the perfect way to help them fall asleep as well as getting in some exercise. Doing yoga at home is also a great way to stay healthy and can feel super relaxing.
• Wear clothes that make you feel confident: Dressing in a way that makes you feel good can help you show yourself some love. Your style may change after giving birth, and that’s completely okay. As long as you feel great, that’s all that matters.

Maintaining Healthy Relationships 🥰

It can be overwhelming to balance relationships whilst caring for a new-born baby. Luckily,
there are ways to maintain the relationships in your life.

• Plan quality time with your partner: After giving birth, you and your partner will quickly find yourselves becoming busy. It’s important that whilst caring for your child, you also make time for each other. Planning a date night or sitting down and enjoying a takeaway on the sofa together can feel comforting.
• Communicate and set boundaries: As a new mother, looking after your baby is going to be one of your top priorities. It’s natural that you may spend less time meeting up with friends for a short while as you get whisked up in motherhood. To prevent misunderstandings, make sure you set boundaries and communicate with others. For example, if someone asks if you’re free to meet but you’ve got baby priorities, gently let them know that you’re caring for the baby and will meet another time.
• Ask for help: It’s okay to ask for help! Being a mother doesn’t have to be a journey that you take on your own. Leaning on others for support is alright, and gaining reassurance can be super helpful.
• Meet new mothers: As well as maintaining current relationships, it’s fun to meet new people. You can meet new mothers virtually by joining Facebook groups; there are many out there. Joining local groups are useful as there may be opportunities to meet in person. You could attend a baby group and meet new friends there too. Meeting other parents going through similar experiences can be helpful as you can learn from them and they can learn from you. There are many opportunities, you just have to find them!

Here is a list of parent & baby groups local to Bambinos and Beyond:

• Shorties Baby Group – For babies up to 12 months old
• Moo Music - Fun, interactive music classes for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers
• The Sensory Storyteller - Shares favourite nursery rhymes and classic children’s stories using a multi sensory

Your postpartum journey is personal to you! It’s about caring for your new-born, but also about rediscovering who you are. Remember that as a new mother, you are doing incredible.