In my early twenties, I was at the peak of my physical fitness. Weighing around 120 pounds, I dedicated an hour each day to yoga, finally revealing the abs I had long desired. I felt strong, both physically and spiritually, and there was an undeniable sense of beauty in how I looked. But let’s be real—there was a hint of vanity in there too. I had the body I always dreamed of.
However, that phase of perfection didn’t last forever. Life got busier, my yoga practice dwindled, and my diet took a nosedive into indulgence. Slowly, the extra pounds crept back, and the definition I once had began to fade. Then I became a mother, and you can probably guess how that story unfolds.
Fast forward about 15 years and 15 pounds later, I find myself a different person. I’ve given birth to two kids and spent nearly a decade primarily focused on raising them. I sometimes lament the extra weight and the limited time for exercise. But through this journey, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of what really matters.
The ideal body I cherished in my twenties is now a distant memory as I approach my forties. More importantly, I’ve come to appreciate aspects of life that far outweigh having a perfectly toned physique. Even if I were to exercise as frequently as I did back then and maintain a strict diet, I would still struggle to attain that same slim look. My metabolism has shifted, and my body has changed post-pregnancy. I’ve finally accepted that I’m not going to outrun my genetics.
Beyond my physical form, my mindset has transformed. Eating well and being active boost my mood. When I neglect those habits, I don’t feel my best. It’s not about chasing that elusive perfect body anymore; it’s about nurturing a healthy one.
I want to be able to chase after my kids (and future grandkids!) without feeling winded. I want to reach for the top shelf without risking an injury. I want to wake up energized and fill my days with activities I love, surrounded by the people who matter most. I crave the stamina to embrace the joy in my life, as well as the strength to navigate its inevitable challenges.
For however many years I’m fortunate enough to be here, I want to thrive—not just survive. I know that changes are coming to my body, like the other day when I sneezed and realized my pelvic floor isn’t what it used to be (time for those kegels!). Menopause is on the horizon, along with a host of potential health issues that come with aging.
So, I roll out my yoga mat a few times a week and take to the streets for a few miles now and then. I do my best to eat healthily most of the time (but let’s be honest, I still indulge in chocolate and salty snacks). I engage in these habits not just to maintain a healthy weight, but because this is the only body I’ll ever have, and I want it to serve me well. I want to live life feeling as good as possible.
For more insights on this journey, check out this blog post that delves into similar themes. If you’re considering home insemination, Make a Mom offers reliable at-home insemination syringe kits to assist you. Additionally, for a wealth of knowledge on pregnancy and fertility, Cleveland Clinic’s podcast is an excellent resource.
In summary, it’s time to embrace the body we have, recognizing that health and well-being far outweigh societal standards of beauty. Focusing on vitality and strength allows us to truly enjoy our lives.
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