Post partum blues effects nearly 80% of post-partum women.
I know in my case, I wondered if I would ever feel normal again…
Yet every evening like clockwork, the tears couldn’t stop rolling and I didn’t know why.
This went on for weeks until the hazy post-partum period started to slowly lift away.
Finally, I could enter this new normal of the powerful transition from maiden into motherhood.
All this to say:
Everyone’s situation is different, yet I do know one thing:
Post partum blues isn’t easy and it can feel like an emotional roller-coaster (with no end in sight.)
I hope these 3 reminders give you inspiration and compassion as see you navigate through the post partum blues and beyond.
You Are Strong
You are stronger than you could ever imagine.
Just picture every birth as a rebirth of your identity.
Each child coming with their own unique set of challenges, demands, and temperaments.
Yet as mothers, we rise to meet these obstacles head on like never before.
From lack of sleep, hours of undivided attention, dealing with our internal struggles, working, etc. well it isn’t easy work.
In those moments, remember this:
Each child you have awakens a strength in you, you never knew you had before.
THIS TOO SHALL PASS
“When the storm seems to overpower you, hold tight, for it is only passing.”
Hiral Nagda
Baby blues lasts up to two weeks after giving birth.
I know that when you’re right in the smack middle of it, it can feel like a life-time.
But one day you’ll look back at this moment proud, relieved, and joyous that you made it through, one day at a time.
YOUR SADNESS IS VALID
No matter how much you love your new baby, it’s okay to feel sad.
You have permission to cry even if:
- It comes out of nowhere
- you don’t have a to “reason”,
- you love being a mom
- you’re grateful for your family and life
Because your hormones reach the level of a menopausal women post birth.
Meaning:
What you’re feeling is natural.
And by imply sitting with your sadness and allowing it to exist without judgement or meaning can feel liberating.
Ask yourself:
- What sensations do I feel?
- How might I experience this without my inner critic?
- What would it feel / look like to let it all out through movement?
Box breathing 3 times a day for 2-3 minutes is also a great way to reduce stress and bring your nervous system to a place of calm.