When we think about postpartum fitness, the first things that often come to mind are workouts, diets, and the pressure to "bounce back" to our pre-pregnancy bodies. But what if we reimagined postpartum fitness altogether? What if, instead of focusing on the number on the scale or the size of our jeans, we centered our attention on true wellness—nourishing our bodies and minds in a way that fosters long-term health and happiness?
In a recent conversation with Amanda Casillo of FitByAmanda on the Empower 2 Heal Podcast we explored this very idea. Amanda, an expert in holistic postpartum fitness, challenges the typical postpartum fitness narrative and offers a refreshing approach that prioritizes self-compassion, mental health, and sustainable self-care practices.
Shifting the Focus: From "Bouncing Back" to Moving Forward
The societal pressure to “bounce back” after giving birth can be overwhelming, leaving many mothers feeling inadequate or rushed. But what if we allowed ourselves the grace to move forward at our own pace instead? Amanda emphasizes that postpartum recovery isn’t a race. It’s a journey of healing and rediscovering our bodies in a new way.
Fitness, in the traditional sense, often gets narrowed down to just physical activity. Yet, as Amanda and I discussed, true postpartum wellness involves much more. It’s about nurturing our mental and emotional well-being just as much as our physical health. This might mean prioritizing rest, engaging in gentle movement that feels good, or simply allowing ourselves to be present in the moment without the pressure to “do more.”
Nourishing Your Body and Mind
Amanda and I both agree that the postpartum period is a time when your body and mind need nourishment—real nourishment. And this isn’t just about the food we eat, although that’s important too. It’s about nourishing our souls, filling our cups, and being gentle with ourselves as we navigate the challenges and joys of new motherhood.
This could look like:
Mindful Movement: Instead of forcing yourself into a strict exercise routine, try integrating movement that feels nurturing. This might be a gentle walk outside, some light stretching, or even just dancing around the living room with your baby. The key is to move in a way that feels good to you, without the pressure to meet any specific fitness goals.
Mental Health First: Amanda highlights the importance of mental health in postpartum recovery. Whether it’s seeking support from a therapist, practicing mindfulness, or simply taking a few moments each day to breathe deeply, caring for your mental health is crucial. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and to take time for yourself.
Self-Compassion: Postpartum is a season of change, and it’s vital to approach it with self-compassion. Give yourself permission to rest, to slow down, and to prioritize your well-being. The postpartum period is not the time to push yourself to extremes; it’s a time to heal and grow, both physically and emotionally.
Redefining Success in Postpartum Fitness
Success in postpartum fitness shouldn’t be measured by how quickly we can return to our pre-pregnancy bodies. Instead, let’s redefine success as feeling strong, balanced, and mentally and emotionally well. Let’s focus on building a foundation of health that supports us in the long run, rather than chasing short-term results.
Amanda and I are passionate about helping mothers approach postpartum wellness with a mindset that honors the incredible journey their bodies have been through. It’s about choosing kindness over criticism, nourishment over restriction, and holistic well-being over narrow fitness goals.
As you navigate your own postpartum journey, I invite you to embrace this new perspective on fitness—one that celebrates your body, mind, and spirit in all their postpartum glory. If you're looking for additional resources to support your postpartum wellness journey, I’ve put together a free resource library, "Maternal Mental Health Nutrition Resources," designed to help you heal your gut and, in turn, support your mental health. You can access this valuable resource by clicking here. Together, let’s nurture our bodies and minds in a way that truly supports our long-term well-being.
Listen to the Full Conversation
For a deeper dive into these topics and to hear Amanda's expert insights firsthand, be sure to listen to our full conversation in the podcast episode "Why 'Bouncing Back' Is Overrated: Redefining Postpartum Fitness by Nourishing Your Body and Mind". Whether you're a new mom or supporting someone on their postpartum journey, this episode is packed with valuable information and encouragement.
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