If you are wanting to lose weight after having a baby it’s important that you access what you want to accomplish in a day. I understand as a mom there are many things to do, but taking care of yourself should be a top priority! I recommend that you make a list of the top 5 things you want to accomplish towards reaching your weight loss goal. For example: #1. bring healthy snacks #2. go for a walk #3. drink an extra glass of water, etc.. When you take care of yourself, you will have the energy and passion to take care of the other important areas in your life.
Often when I talk to new moms about benefits of meditation they, “I can’t do that, I can’t sit still. My mind is too busy with thoughts.” My advice is to close your eyes and say a mantra such as “My baby is beautiful and healthly”. On the inhale you say quietly to yourself “My baby is” and on the exhale “beautiful and healthy”. Repeat the breath and the mantra as long as you feel comfortable. Notice how much more relaxed and connected to your baby you feel after completing your meditation.
Review of Sara’s Second Trimester Prenatal Yoga DVD from Amazon.com: Great Workout!, January 15, 2007 Reviewer: CRL (Chapel Hill, NC) I really enjoy doing this 35 minute routine. Afterwards I feel stretched and relaxed, and also like I got a bit of a strength building workout. Sara is easy to follow. I will continue to use this DVD after my pregnancy is over.
Remember this simple tip, if you exercise it will improve your mood! It’s so easy to say, “I’ll do it later”. Before you know it the day is over and you haven’t done any exercise, and all you want to do is good to sleep! (I know, I’m a mom of two busy boys!) But, keep in mind when you get your body moving you produce natural highs called endorphins. Summer stated, ”When I exercise I’m in such a better mood. I have more patience with my daughter, and I feel good all day”. So don’t wait…get moving!
As a mom of two I know first hand how challenging it can be to get in a workout. I have found that if moms don’t workout in the morning they are unlikely to workout later in the day because they get tired by the time late afternoon or early evening roll around. So my advice is to plan your day by starting with exercise in the morning. When you exercise in the morning you will notice an increase in energy, more patience, and a better overall mood!
Review of Sara’s Stroller Workout for Moms by Cleverparents.com states: “Are you looking for a little fitness inspiration? We suggest you upload the Fit by Sara Stroller Workout for Moms to you iPod and get outside!”
In your pregnancy it’s common to feel muscle pain in the low back, and into the buttocks. Try this simple yoga breath exercise to ease muscle discomfort. Lay comfortably on your left side. You may use pillows for additional support (i.e., one under your head, one under your belly, one in between your legs). Scan your body from head to toe and notice where you are feeling discomfort. Inhale through your nose then exhale “space” into the area(s) of discomfort. Imagine the “space” you are breathing is lengthening the muscle. Repeat the yoga breath into the uncomfortable area 10 times or as long as you need too. At the end of the exercise notice the difference in how your body feels.
Storknet reviews Sara’s Total Body Toning DVD: “You WILL feel this workout the next day. Done consistently, you will help Sara achieve her goal- to help you get your body back!”
When you’re pregnant it’s common to focus on things you don’t like about your changing body, and this can lead to low self-esteem, feeling sad, depressed, and or disconnected with those you love the most. Try this simple exercise to boost your confidence and feel great in your body! Look in the mirror and take note of all of the positive changes such as thicker hair, stronger nails, fuller breasts, and glowing skin. Remember, this time of your life is very temporary, so rejoice in the changes and the attention you get for creating and carrying a miracle…a baby!!
When you’re pregnant it’s common to experience cravings, and ravishing hunger. Now more than ever it’s important that you “fuel your body”. What I mean by fuel your body is you should eat when your body is craving food, but eat wisely. Chose foods that will satisfy you and aid in the development of your baby. Bring healthy snacks along with you so you stay satisfied. Healthy snack ideas include: cereal (my personal favorite is Kashi Go Lean Crunch), carrots, nuts, a banana, or a granola bar.
