As a mother who incorporates physical activity into my daily life alongside my infant, I understand that the idyllic images often portrayed are far from the complete picture. The reality of trying to maintain a serene yoga pose can be disrupted by a baby’s unexpected antics, whether it’s a spontaneous giggle or an unfortunate spit-up incident. Embracing these imperfections is vital; parenting is inherently messy, and it’s essential to recognize that these moments are just as meaningful as the picture-perfect ones.
I’ve made a conscious decision to include my baby in most aspects of my life, understanding that it may not always be Instagram-ready, but it is undeniably authentic. Here are some of the activities that have become a part of our routine:
Toilet Time
Recently, I encountered a viral image of a mother multitasking by breastfeeding while using the restroom. Initially, I didn’t grasp the controversy surrounding it. While I’ve only nursed my child in the bathroom once or twice, I’ve taken her into countless public restroom stalls. What other options do I have when nature calls? Moreover, I recently found myself squatting in the woods to relieve myself while carrying her. No regrets.
Nursing on the Go
Just the other day, I was hiking with my baby securely strapped to my chest when she indicated she was hungry. Without the luxury of time to stop, I discreetly breastfed her while continuing our trek. Admittedly, I felt a bit self-conscious about my sweaty appearance, but it worked for us in that moment. Sometimes you just have to embrace the spontaneity of motherhood!
Socializing with Friends
Many of my close friends are yet to have children, and I typically avoid hiring a babysitter unless absolutely necessary. Instead, I opt for social outings that accommodate my little one. Whether grabbing coffee, enjoying a drink at a bar, or attending a live music event, my baby joins me, often charming those around us. While there are challenges, such as her tendency to swipe drinks off tables, this is how we bond and navigate our new reality.
Appointments
There are occasions when having a babysitter would certainly make life easier, but that isn’t always feasible. Recently, I needed to undergo X-rays and had no one available to watch my baby, so I brought her along. While it is true that infants cannot be present in the X-ray room, I safely parked her in a stroller nearby. Surprisingly, she adapted well to these unconventional mommy-and-me moments, and when she didn’t, we simply adjusted our approach.
In summary, my baby and I navigate these daily challenges together, embracing the chaos and spontaneity of motherhood. While I may not always capture these experiences for social media, I cherish the reality of our journey, even when it involves her inadvertently disrupting my yoga practice.
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