Pilates Reform With Baby
Most of you know that I worked out my entire pregnancy. Staying in shape is something that makes me feel good physically and emotionally. Taking the time to work on my health is challenging in the gym, but rewarding in life. I only gained 25 pounds this pregnancy and 30 with my first. After I had Amirah, I lost all my baby weight in about two weeks. Here I am five months postpartum and I just can't drop this last ten pounds.
It's been frustrating for me because I eat healthy and work out, but it just won't budge. So I decided to try some new workouts to encourage my body to do more. I got invited to Speir Pilates in Santa Monica to try a mommy and me #fitmomma reform class. I work from home and homeschool my older daughter, so I don't get much time alone with the baby. It's usually the three of us all day and me trying to divide my time.
I drove to Santa Monica with Azarah which was about 45 minutes away. The class was so relaxing and a really good workout. The instructor provided modified versions for anyone who needed to tend to their baby. It was one of the most beautiful bonding moments for me and Azarah. I was able to spend time with just her without feeling guilty. It becomes difficult to give either of my daughters all of my attention when we are home. I often feel guilty because Amirah had all of my attention as an only child. It's important I find moments for Azarah to experience that same attention.
If your local Pilates or yoga studio doesn't offer a mommy and me workout, there are always online workouts. I highly recommend working out with your children at least once a week. It introduces the importance of health, as well as giving you a chance to bond. I enjoyed meeting up with other moms who have babies Azarah's age and doing something to help me get back in shape. I'm learning to love my body along this journey back to my desired size. At the end of the day, we have to love ourselves and be gentle with the process. I just had a human living inside me and gave birth five months ago. I am healthy and so is my baby girl. I will get to my desired size, but in the meantime I will encourage myself and others to take it slow and remember, "You just had a baby."