As you prepare for your first child, it’s easy to get caught up in the tangible aspects of motherhood: the size of your growing belly, the nursery setup, the hospital choice for delivery, and the car seat you’ll use to bring your little one home. All of these details matter, of course.
But having navigated the turbulent waters of postpartum life, my top advice for expectant mothers is simple: prioritize your emotional well-being. How can you nurture your baby if you neglect your own needs?
As a new mom, I found myself overwhelmed with questions that echoed in my mind: “Did that really happen?” “Did he actually say that?” “Is this my new reality?” Healing goes beyond physical recovery; there are emotional wounds that require attention, too.
Letting go is essential. As Elsa famously says, you must learn to “let it go.” Holding onto burdens only complicates your life further. After all, you need to be agile enough to keep up with your energetic toddler throughout the day.
I quickly realized I wasn’t alone in my feelings. Many new mothers are caught in a whirlwind of pregnancy hormones and the postpartum blues, overshadowing their inherent strength and power. Your touch can bring comfort, and you possess an incredible ability to nurture. Yet, feelings of guilt and shame often creep in during these precious moments.
To those reading this, you might be thinking, “Wow, mothers are a bit crazy!” And you’re right! We can be a little cray-cray. But if you think it’s wild to read this, just imagine how it feels to experience it. These emotions often surface unexpectedly after childbirth. If you think facing your period in middle school was tough, try the awkward moments that come with bringing a new life into the world.
Let’s flip the script. Instead of labeling those feelings negatively, let’s celebrate mothers as: fabulous, remarkable, irreplaceable, powerful, and strong.
I want to shake each one of you and say: Don’t cry, Mom. If you don’t see rainbows and unicorns upon meeting your baby, if your feelings don’t match societal expectations, or if you feel a disconnect, remember: every childbirth journey is unique. You and your little one will be just fine.
Don’t cry, Mom. Even in the stillness of night, when the breast pump seems to chatter incessantly, you’re not losing your mind. Well, maybe just a little. But you’ll come out the other side stronger.
Don’t cry, Mom. It’s okay to wonder if you can handle this monumental change. It’s perfectly natural to feel guilt for having those thoughts. You’re human, navigating a life-altering transition. Give yourself grace. Acknowledge those feelings, but let them pass like clouds in the sky.
Don’t cry, Mom, if arguments arise with your partner out of nowhere. It’s hard to learn how to co-parent, and every couple adjusts differently. My partner and I are still figuring it out, but we are committed to the journey together, even when it’s tough.
However, it’s also okay to let the tears flow. When your baby refuses to sleep, and your patience is hanging by a thread, it’s normal to feel frustrated. Sometimes, a good cry is just what you need. Embrace those emotions, hug your baby tight, and then pick yourself up to try again. That’s the essence of motherhood.
The reality is: You are not alone. Whatever you’re feeling right now is valid and shared by many. This phase will pass.
And here’s the most crucial truth: You are incredible. It’s time to recognize that within yourself.
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Summary
The emotional journey of motherhood is often overlooked amidst the physical preparations. New moms must prioritize their feelings and mental health while navigating this transformative stage. It’s normal to experience a range of emotions, and acknowledging them is key. Remember, you are not alone, and you are stronger than you think.
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