What if you could replace the pressure to “bounce back” after pregnancy with a compassionate, body-positive approach to movement?
In this episode, we’re joined by Simi Botic, a former corporate healthcare attorney turned health coach, who shares her personal journey of overcoming struggles with body image and disordered eating. Together, we explore how mindful movement can help you build a positive connection with your body during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by societal expectations or simply looking for a way to prioritize joyful movement, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on self-compassion and physical well-being.
We Will Cover:
The harmful impact of “bounce-back culture” and how to reframe body image expectations.
Practical tips for incorporating mindful movement into your daily life during pregnancy and postpartum.
How to listen to your body and approach exercise with curiosity and joy.
The long-term benefits of compassionate, sustainable movement for both your physical and emotional health.
Listen to the episode now:
As we step into a new year, many of us feel the weight of societal expectations regarding our bodies, especially after pregnancy. The relentless pressure to "bounce back" can overshadow the incredible journey our bodies have undertaken. As a childbirth educator, I want to encourage you to embrace a more compassionate approach—one that fosters a positive connection with your body through mindful movement.
The Impact of Bounce-Back Culture
The notion of bouncing back after childbirth is deeply ingrained in our culture and often amplified during New Year’s resolutions. This mindset can lead to feelings of shame and inadequacy, making it challenging to appreciate the profound changes our bodies experience during pregnancy and postpartum. Instead of focusing on unrealistic ideals, we should celebrate our bodies for their strength and resilience.
Mindful Movement: A Path to Connection
In my recent conversation with Simi Botic (she/her) on the Mindful Room podcast, we explored how mindful movement can transform our relationship with our bodies. Simi, a former corporate healthcare attorney turned health coach, shared her personal journey of overcoming struggles with body image and disordered eating. Through her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of building a compassionate relationship with ourselves.
Key Insights from Our Discussion:
Be Gentle with Yourself: The New Year can amplify feelings of self-criticism. Recognize that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed by societal messages about body image. Approach yourself with kindness and understanding as you navigate these pressures.
Shift Your Mindset: Instead of striving for quick fixes or control over your body, focus on cultivating a meaningful relationship with yourself. This involves trust, connection, and care—elements that are essential for any healthy relationship.
Curiosity Over Judgment: When negative thoughts arise about your body, ask yourself what positive intention lies beneath that judgment. Understanding the motivations behind your feelings can help you foster self-compassion rather than self-criticism.
Listen to Your Body: Tune into what your body needs at different stages—be it rest, nourishment, or movement. Approach these needs collaboratively rather than from a place of control or punishment.
Find Enjoyment in Movement: Sustainable exercise is rooted in enjoyment. If movement feels like a chore, it's unlikely you'll maintain it long-term. Experiment with activities that bring you joy and help you connect positively with your body.
Cultivating Mindful Movement Throughout Parenthood
As we navigate the various stages of parenthood—from pregnancy through postpartum—it's vital to redefine what movement means for us during these times. Here are some strategies for cultivating mindful movement:
Identify Your Goals: Reflect on what role movement plays in your life right now. Is it stress relief? A way to feel energized? Or perhaps just a moment for yourself amidst the chaos of parenting?
Adapt Your Routine: Understand that your ability to engage in structured workouts may change after having children. Look for ways to incorporate movement into your daily routine—whether it's a walk with your baby or a quick stretch during nap time.
Prioritize Self-Care: Taking time for yourself is essential for your well-being as a parent. Mindful movement can be an act of self-care that benefits both you and your family.
The Benefits of Mindful Movement
Mindful movement not only enhances physical well-being but also nurtures emotional health and self-acceptance throughout different stages of parenthood:
Building Trust: Engaging in mindful movement helps cultivate trust in your body’s capabilities. As you learn to listen to its needs, you foster a deeper connection that encourages self-acceptance.
Promoting Self-Acceptance: By embracing the changes your body undergoes during pregnancy and postpartum, you develop a more compassionate view of yourself. This shift in perspective allows you to celebrate your body rather than criticize it.
Encouraging Longevity: A focus on enjoyment in movement leads to sustainable habits that last beyond the immediate postpartum period. This long-term approach supports ongoing physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Ditching bounce-back culture is about embracing who we are at every stage of motherhood. By practicing mindful movement and nurturing a positive connection with our bodies, we can foster self-acceptance and joy throughout our parenting journey.
Let’s celebrate our bodies for their strength and resilience rather than focusing on unrealistic ideals. Together, we can create a culture that values compassion over control—a culture where every woman feels empowered to embrace her unique path through motherhood.
Join me in this journey toward self-love and acceptance as we redefine what it means to move mindfully during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond!
If you want to check out Unmeasured, Simi’s incredible barre-based fitness classes and virtual workshops that include resources for pregnancy and postpartum you can start a 7-day free trial HERE.
Thank You for Listening
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