Self Compassion For Your Postpartum Body
This blog was originally published here by Penelope Oberhardt, LCSW.
Self-compassion involves treating oneself with kindness and understanding, particularly during difficult times. It includes being mindful of the present moment without judgment, recognizing that everyone faces challenges, and acknowledging and validating one's emotions. Cultivating self-compassion can lead to increased resilience, reduced anxiety and depression, better emotional regulation, and motivation for positive change. It encourages a nurturing internal dialogue and fosters a sense of common humanity, promoting overall well-being and a healthier response to adversity.
Self-compassion is a crucial practice, especially during the postpartum period when your body has gone through significant changes. It's important to remember that your body has just accomplished an incredible feat by bringing new life into the world. Here are some ways to cultivate self-compassion for your postpartum body:
Acknowledge the Changes: Understand that your body has gone through a remarkable process of creating and nurturing life. It's normal for your body to change, and these changes are a testament to the incredible journey of motherhood.
Release Unrealistic Expectations: Let go of societal or personal expectations about how your body should look postpartum. Bodies change, and each person's experience is unique. Focus on the health and well-being of both you and your baby rather than conforming to external standards.
Be Mindful and Present: Practice mindfulness by staying present and appreciating your body for what it has accomplished. Mindfulness can help you develop a positive relationship with your body as it is now, fostering self-acceptance.
Practice Self-Kindness: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Avoid self-criticism and negative self-talk. Instead, offer yourself the same compassion you would give to a friend. Remember that it's okay to prioritize self-care and take the time you need to recover.
Celebrate Your Body's Strength: Focus on the strength and resilience of your body. It has carried and birthed a new life. Celebrate the incredible capabilities of your body rather than dwelling on perceived flaws.
Connect with Others: Share your feelings and experiences with friends, family, or support groups. Connecting with others who have gone through similar challenges can provide a sense of community and understanding.
Set Realistic Goals: If you have fitness or wellness goals, set realistic and achievable ones. Be patient with yourself and understand that progress may take time. Approach any fitness or health routines with a focus on well-being rather than aesthetics.
Cultivate Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities that make you feel good about yourself. This could include activities like gentle exercise, taking relaxing baths, or practicing mindfulness. Self-care contributes to overall well-being and can positively impact your body image.
Remember, self-compassion is an ongoing process. It involves accepting yourself as you are, acknowledging the changes, and responding with kindness and understanding. By adopting a compassionate mindset, you can navigate the postpartum period with a greater sense of self-love and appreciation for the incredible journey your body has been through.
For more information on starting your self compassion journey, please visit https://centerformsc.org
Lauren Fox, LCSW, PMH-C works exclusively with women in the perinatal period and those with children 0-3 years old.
I hope this blog about self-compassion for your postpartum body was helpful for you. Read here if you’d like to know more about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. If you are looking for a perinatal and/or postpartum therapist, reach out to me! I can also help point you in the direction of local Coachella Valley doulas, physicians, birthing centers and vendors like photographers, balloons and catering for baby showers, etc, etc. We can schedule a 15 minute phone consultation to discuss what is happening for you and explore if more individualized mental health support could be beneficial for you. I would be happy to help get you connected. Feel free to call me at 805-930-9355 for a free 15 minute phone consultation. If you are looking for help with pregnancy, postpartum, pregnancy loss, infertility, birth trauma, hypnotherapy, or new mothers support groups, you can read more about how I can help within this website.
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