As an exhausted mom, running on little sleep and constantly juggling the needs of your little ones, prioritizing your health can feel like an uphill battle. When you’re already drained, the last thing you need is for the people around you to unknowingly make things harder. Yet, even with the best intentions, friends and family can sometimes slow down your progress, leaving you feeling stuck in exhaustion and discomfort. Let’s take a closer look at how to navigate these challenges and build the right kind of support system to help you heal and thrive.
As a postpartum mom, especially one dealing with the challenges of leaky bladders, persistent pain, and a weakened core, your health journey isn’t just physical—it’s deeply mental and emotional too. And while it’s natural to lean on friends and family, sometimes those closest to us can unintentionally make our path harder.
Research shows that a strong support system plays a vital role in not just losing weight but reclaiming overall health. Yet, if the people around us aren't mindful of the struggles we face, their actions may unknowingly hold us back. Whether you’re juggling a toddler, managing older kids, or navigating the early years of motherhood, it's time to take a closer look at who’s truly supporting you and who might be making it harder for you to succeed.
What to Avoid:
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The Food Pushers: As a busy mom, especially one struggling with physical discomfort, food can often become a source of comfort. But well-meaning loved ones—be it your spouse, a friend, or even a family member—may encourage indulgences that derail your recovery. They may offer extra helpings of mashed potatoes or cake, not realizing the impact it can have on your goals to regain strength and confidence. Instead of food, find ways to nurture each other emotionally, and ask for their support in your journey toward a stronger, pain-free body.
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The Excuse Makers: “You look great just the way you are!” or “It’s okay to rest, don’t worry about the exercises today.” These comments can feel comforting in the moment, but they may not be what you truly need to hear. Yes, you deserve love, but you also deserve the truth—support that challenges you to heal and improve, even when it feels difficult. Those gentle excuses can make it easier to stay stuck in a cycle of pain and discomfort, rather than pushing yourself toward lasting wellness.
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The Good Time Gang: Friends and family may want to include you in every celebration, from snack-filled parties to dinner gatherings, but as a mom working hard to reclaim your health after childbirth, these gatherings can easily lead to overeating or staying up too late. For moms with older kids or toddlers, maintaining a healthy routine might mean skipping a late-night hangout or saying no to foods that aggravate your body. It's okay to gently set boundaries—your health and well-being come first.
What to Look for Instead:
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The Cheerleaders: These are the people who recognize your efforts to heal your body and regain your strength. They believe in you, support your choices, and celebrate even the small victories—whether it’s completing a pelvic floor exercise or making time for self-care. These people encourage you to take it one step at a time and remind you of how far you've come in your journey. Surround yourself with them. Their belief in you will help you find the strength to push forward.
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The Teammates: You’re not alone in this journey. Seek out other moms, friends, or even online support groups who understand the challenges of postpartum recovery—whether you're dealing with core weakness, incontinence, or the stress of juggling multiple kids. These teammates can offer encouragement, share strategies that worked for them, and help you stay motivated. Their presence can make the journey feel less isolating and more achievable.
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The Coaches: Whether you’re dealing with pelvic floor issues, back pain, or core weakness, having a coach—be it a physical therapist, a wellness coach, or a pelvic health specialist—can be a game-changer. A coach can offer expert guidance and help you develop a tailored plan to rebuild your strength, manage pain, and heal your body. They’ll not only support your physical journey but also help you overcome the mental hurdles that often arise during postpartum recovery.
The Bottom Line:
As a postpartum mom, you are navigating so many physical, emotional, and mental challenges. It’s easy to feel like you’re doing it all alone, especially when it feels like the people closest to you aren’t fully understanding your needs. But remember, your health and well-being are important, and you don’t have to do it alone. Surround yourself with those who truly uplift you—whether they’re cheerleaders, teammates, or expert coaches—because you deserve to feel strong, pain-free, and confident again.
Take it one step at a time, honor your body, and know that you’re supported. I believe in you, and I’m here to help guide you on your journey to reclaiming your health and wellness! You’ve got this, mama.
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