When people say pregnancy is not easy, they do not only count the 9 months but the time after as well. Pregnancy is challenging for a woman’s body, and so any side effects experienced afterwards are not so surprising if you think about it. These side effects are not only limited to the physical changes the body experiences after pregnancy but also psychological changes, including post-partum depression and loss of confidence.
You may begin to doubt yourself, you may reminisce the life you had before, you may lose the confidence you had before.
It’s only natural and common to experience such feelings. But the good news is that you can still reclaim your confidence and feel better by taking care of yourself.
Why is self-care important to reclaim your confidence?
Apart from physical changes, pregnancy can also cause an emotional turmoil. You may feel dejected, unsure, and love yourself a little less every day. This shouldn’t happen. Remember, it is just a phase. You will get out of it. If you are struggling with a lack of confidence or an identity crisis for that matter, just know you are still you. It’s just that you have to remind yourself the same thing. A little self-care can go a long way.
Self-care is vital because it enhances our well-being by ensuring we stay connected to ourselves and the things that matter the most to us. It can remind us that life is a little changed, but you still have control. You can still drive it the way you want to. You are still you – the same confident self you were before you got pregnant. Remember, personality traits don’t just disappear all of a sudden. They’re still there, but you just have to find them all over again.
Unfortunately, self-care is sometimes considered a luxury instead of a need, not just for those who may feel stressed but those who are struggling emotionally after pregnancy. It is an essential practice – and integral for getting back your confidence.
Some self-care tips to adopt to reclaim your confidence
Make time for your personal appearance
Remember the time when you used to wear that pretty dress and that red lipstick to look like the boss lady you are? Things might have changed a little, given that you now have a little one to take care of. But there’s no way you must give up dressing up if that makes you feel good. So, wear that favourite dress of yours, style your hair, give yourself a manicure, even if you are not going out. Get dressed up and stand in front of the mirror to tell yourself that you are still you – the same gorgeous lady that stood in front of the mirror a few months ago.
Do things that you loved
If you had a hobby before, there is no way you should give that up after becoming a mother. So, if your hobby was to play the guitar or paint, do it. In case your hobby requires you to step out of the house frequently, and you feel you cannot do it, you may seek help such as getting a babysitter. You can even start a blog. Use it to express yourself, and share your expertise and experience.
Do not cut off ties with your dear ones
You do not have to cut ties with your close set of friends even if you are a mother. Your friends are a part of your identity, the cheerleaders who played an important part in boosting your confidence. So, stay in touch with them. Call them up when you feel low, meet them, hang out with them.
Start exercising
You’re never too young, you are never too old to exercise. Pregnancy may put a pause on your workout regime, but now that you are past that phase, there’s no reason why you should not begin again. Start exercising.
Exercising is a great way to tell yourself that you are still in control of your body. If not an hour, spare at least 15 minutes a day to exercise. Just so you know, even little things go a long way.
Closing thoughts
Embracing self-care as a new mother is not just an indulgence but a vital step towards reclaiming your confidence post-pregnancy. By nurturing your physical, emotional, and mental well-being, you can combat the challenges that come with motherhood and rediscover your sense of self. Remember that taking care of yourself is not a selfish act, but rather a powerful investment in your overall well-being and the well-being of your family.
Prioritising self-care allows you to find balance, recharge your spirit, and approach motherhood with renewed strength and confidence. As you embark on this transformative journey, remember that you deserve the time and space to care for yourself, for in doing so, you become a more resilient, empowered, and fulfilled version of yourself—a source of inspiration for both yourself and those you love. Embrace self-care as a loving gift to yourself, and watch as your newfound confidence radiates, positively impacting every aspect of your life.
