Motherhood is a journey filled with love, chaos, and the constant pull to care for everyone around you. In the midst of it all, it’s easy to forget about yourself. But sometimes, the best reminders of how to live well come from the most unexpected places—like our beloved cats. Their independence, resilience, and simple approach to life have taught me powerful lessons about self-care, balance, and healing—lessons that I know can help you, too.
Whether you're navigating postpartum recovery, juggling toddlers, or simply trying to reclaim your strength, these 17 lessons from our feline companions will remind you that small steps matter and that healing is possible—one loving act at a time.
As a mom, I know that life is filled with both joy and challenges. Over the years, I’ve learned so many lessons from our beloved dogs, lessons that have helped me become stronger and more mindful in my own health journey. I want to share these with you today because, as a mom who’s navigating life with little ones, I believe these lessons can inspire you to reclaim your health and wellness too.
Our cats were with us for over 13 years, and their love and loyalty left a lasting imprint on our hearts. When we lost both of them within a short span, it made me reflect deeply on the lessons they taught us about health, balance, and joy in life.
Here’s what they taught me that can be helpful to you as a postpartum mom or a mom juggling the busy days of raising toddlers and young children:
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Fear Holds Us Back, But We Have the Power to Overcome It. One of our cats was terrified of water at first, but with patience and gentle encouragement, she learned to swim. Fear can stop us from taking the steps toward healing, whether it's fear of exercise or fear of change. But just like our cats, you can overcome it—one small step at a time.
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Make Time for Fun and Play. Life can be heavy, especially with the demands of motherhood. But our cats taught us that it’s okay to pause and enjoy some lightness and play. Play is not just for kids—it’s essential for your well-being too. Take time to laugh and have fun, whether it’s a quick dance break or a silly moment with your kids.
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Be Yourself—Unapologetically. Our cats never tried to be anything other than who they were, and that’s a beautiful thing. As moms, it’s easy to feel like we need to be "perfect," but the truth is that you are amazing just as you are. Embrace your journey, your scars, and your resilience—your uniqueness is something to be celebrated.
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Show Appreciation to Your Loved Ones. When Mark would come home, our cats would run to greet him. That simple act of love was a reminder of how powerful showing appreciation is. Try greeting your partner or children with a smile, a hug, or a word of thanks. These small acts can create bonds that make all the difference in your relationships.
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Appreciate the Beauty Around You. Our cats took every walk as an opportunity to appreciate the world around them. As moms, we often rush through the day, but there’s so much beauty in the little things. Take a moment to appreciate the nature around you, whether it’s the crisp morning air or a bright flower in the garden.
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Exercise Doesn’t Have to Be Hard—Make It Fun. Our cats loved their daily walks, and their energy was contagious. You don’t have to jump into intense workouts—start with something simple and fun. Whether it’s a walk with your kids or some gentle stretches during nap time, moving your body is key to rebuilding strength, especially in your core and pelvic health.
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Celebrate Your Journey, Not Just the Destination. It’s easy to focus on goals and overlook the progress we make along the way. Whether you’re recovering from leaky bladder issues or rebuilding core strength, celebrate the small wins. Every step forward is a step closer to your goal.
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Pause, Breathe, and Rest. Just like our cats, you need moments to pause and take a breath. Healing requires rest. Allow yourself to pause, whether it’s a short nap, a moment to meditate, or simply sitting quietly for a few minutes. Your body needs this time to recover.
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Sleep is Essential to Healing. Our cats knew the value of a good nap, and we should too. If you’re dealing with exhaustion or pain, prioritize sleep. Sleep helps your body recover, and it’s crucial for healing from postpartum challenges.
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Don’t Be Afraid to Dream Big. Our cats had no limits to what they could achieve—whether it was learning new tricks or making new friends. You, too, can aim for big dreams. Reclaiming your health, strength, and vitality is a big dream, and it’s one that is absolutely possible.
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Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods. Just like we gave our cats nutritious food, choose wholesome, nutrient-dense meals to fuel your body. Take small steps to add more whole foods—like fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains—into your meals. Your body will thank you.
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Recovery Is Possible. One of our cats had to undergo surgery and months of recovery, but with patience and support, she bounced back stronger. Your postpartum body might need time to heal too, but recovery is not just a possibility; it’s inevitable when you give your body the care it deserves.
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Speak Up for Your Needs. Cats have a way of telling you exactly what they need—whether it’s a walk or attention. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or speak up about what you need. If you’re struggling with pelvic health or need support with your family, let others know—it’s okay to ask for help.
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Balance Is Key—Indulge in Moderation. Our cats enjoyed treats every now and then. Health doesn’t mean perfection—it’s about balance. Don’t beat yourself up if you indulge in a treat or take a break. Just make sure to balance it out with healthy habits.
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Live in the Present. Our cats never worried about tomorrow or regretted yesterday—they lived fully in the moment. You can do the same. Embrace each day with gratitude and presence. Even if it’s a tough day, find the moments to be grateful for.
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Material Things Aren’t What Matter Most. Our dogs never cared about fancy things—they cared about love, loyalty, and companionship. At the end of the day, it’s not the “things” that matter, but the people and experiences that fill your heart.
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Unconditional Love is Healing. Our dogs showed us the power of unconditional love. And that’s what I want for you, too—love and care from the people around you. And most importantly, love for yourself. Healing comes from within, and self-compassion is a powerful tool.
As we heal from the loss of our cats, I’m reminded that their lessons in love, balance, and joy will forever guide me. Just like the love and care I gave them, I want to share that same love with you, as you walk your own journey toward healing and wellness.
You deserve to reclaim your health and strength. Take small steps, and remember that every day is an opportunity to rebuild. I’m here for you, every step of the way.
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