Like most moms, after I delivered, I started to think about my wellness plan. To be honest, I didn't really feel like stressing myself out to quickly achieve any fitness goals. I chatted with my OB and she suggested I take it slow. She's also a mom of three and stressed the importance of giving myself time and grace.
Almost every mom is given the same advice, but sometimes it's just so hard to resist the urge to go super hard when you want to fit back into your old clothes.
I wanted to do things differently and so I decided to hire a wellness coach instead of a fitness trainer this time.
In the past, I've reached my fitness goals with the help of a few personal trainers, but it was INTENSE. I had to follow strict meal plans and work out twice a day to achieve my goals. This time around I was done with all that. It's not that I'm against it, but I knew I didn't really have the energy or strength to commit to sessions and specific workouts right away.
Plus, I’ve already used fitness trainers after my first two pregnancies so I decided it was time to try something new. Everyone around me told me to take it slow, so I decided to take their advice. I didn’t want to feel like I was forcing myself to get back into shape.
Because of these recommendations, I decided to hire a wellness coach.
I came across a wellness coach online and decided to schedule a consultation. From the very first meeting, @resetlifestye has been great! The best part is that she's a mom too, so she understood how I felt. There’s a lot of pressure on new moms getting back into their prior shape, and I was starting to feel it. Although I couldn’t wait to start making progress, it was comforting to know that my wellness coach was going to make sure I took things slow. Having a support system that truly looks out for your wellbeing is so life-changing.
So far, our sessions have been great! We've been focusing on:
Finding your why — Focusing on why wellness matters for you. And when I say wellness, I do mean wellness! Working out and eating right isn’t everything that’s needed to stay well within your body. Nourishing your spirit, honoring your relationships, and taking some time for yourself is wellness too. Everyone’s wellness journey doesn’t look the same, so you’ll need to do some soul searching on what you consider valuable to your overall health.
Water intake — Making sure that I'm consuming enough water each day to ensure my breast milk supply doesn't slow down. As a mom to a newborn, you’re probably doing a hundred different things, so much so that sometimes you might forget to prioritize your own needs. Pouring yourself a glass of water could be the last thing on your mind, but you’ve got to do it! Nursing and pumping can be exhausting, but it becomes all the more challenging if you’re dehydrated while doing it. One trick that’s been helpful for me is incorporating drinking water into my daily schedule. Keep putting that reminder in your planner until you start doing it instinctively.
Making healthy food choices — In the past, my fitness focus has always been restrictive. No sugar, carbs, etc. But my wellness coach and I discussed it and she mentioned how restrictive lifestyles don't last for long – and I agree. So yes, go ahead and eat a sandwich or have that cup of coffee with sugar! And no, it’s not a cheat day. Everything is fine in moderation. That’s where our focus should lie.
Moving your body — As I’ve mentioned before, I used to stay in the gym between 2-3 hours every day. Well not anymore! Working with my wellness coach has made a huge difference in how I exercise. We decided that I should aim to move my body at least once every day. That's it. I don't wear my Apple watch, no scale, no timed or scheduled workouts. Just moving my body every day. I can't even begin to explain how much stress that's relieved! I usually ride my indoor bike and dance with my kids or husband. It's been fun and so good to not have that pressure on me.
I’m so glad I decided to make a change this year and try out a wellness coach. I actually look forward to our meetings! She has had such a positive effect on my life.
Even though I’m not at my goal weight yet, I feel SO comfortable in my body. I know with a bit of time and patience I’ll get there. One of the most important things I’ve learned is that there is no rush!
Have you thought about getting a wellness coach? I promise it isn’t an exclusive club only for new moms and celebrities! If you’ve been struggling with reaching your fitness goals then maybe it’s time to look into one. When the pandemic is over, you’ll emerge as a new you!
I can’t recommend Reset Lifestyle enough. If any of you end up using her services, let her know that Jay sent you!