Ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to ‘bounce back’ after pregnancy? You’re definitely not alone. I recently came across an inspiring story by Emily Ricketts, a personal trainer who gained over 50 pounds during her pregnancy. What struck me most wasn’t just her weight gain, but how she completely changed her mindset around postpartum fitness — shifting from pressure and expectation to kindness and curiosity. (You can read her full story here: Business Insider article)

Emily talks about embracing the experience of feeling like a “beginner again” and how that approach made all the difference in regaining strength and fitness. Instead of rushing to a goal, she allowed herself to heal, adapt, and celebrate small wins. And honestly, that message feels especially important for anyone on their journey to parenthood right now, whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or still trying to conceive.

The Toxic Myth of the ‘Bounce Back’ Culture

We’ve all seen those headlines: “Moms Who Lost All Their Baby Weight In Weeks!” or “How To Get Your Pre-Baby Body Back Fast!” But what does that actually do to new mothers? More often than not, it piles on stress, guilt, and self-criticism.

The truth is your body just did something incredible. It grew a baby, supported life, and deserves patience and respect. The rush to “bounce back” can overshadow that miracle and make you feel like you’re failing if you don’t snap right back.

So, What If Kindness Was The Goal?

What if instead of focusing on a number on the scale or fitting into old jeans, you focused on feeling good, building strength, and reconnecting with your body? Emily’s story shows us this isn’t just easier on the mind — it actually leads to better, longer-lasting fitness results.

Here’s why kindness matters:

• Healing Takes Time: Your body needs time to recover postpartum. Pushing too hard too soon can cause injury or setbacks.
• Mental Health Counts: Being gentle with yourself reduces anxiety and depression, which helps motivation.
• Celebrating Small Wins: Every bit of progress, from getting out of bed to gentle stretches, is worth acknowledging.

This Mindset Matters Before You Even Get Pregnant

If you’re exploring your path to parenthood, whether naturally or through at-home options, embracing kindness now can help you mentally prepare for the journey ahead. For example, MakeAMom, a company specializing in at-home insemination kits, understands that each fertility journey is unique and often challenging. Their approach reflects a deep respect for your individual needs, offering reusable kits tailored to different situations — designed to empower without pressure.

You can check out their thoughtful, discreet solutions that help people conceive outside of clinical settings here: MakeAMom at-home insemination kits.

How To Practice Kindness Postpartum (And Beyond)

If you’re in that postpartum phase or planning on getting there, these simple practices can make a huge difference.

• Listen to Your Body: Rest when you need it. Move when it feels good.
• Set Realistic Goals: Forget timelines. Focus on how you feel, not just how you look.
• Find Support: Whether it’s friends, online groups, or professionals, having a support system is key.
• Celebrate Progress: Keep a journal or share your small victories.

A Final Thought

Fitness and health after pregnancy is a journey — sometimes slow, often surprising, and always unique. By ditching the ‘bounce back’ pressure and choosing kindness, you’re setting yourself up for sustainable wellness and peace of mind.

If you’re trying to conceive or navigating the postpartum phase, remember: your journey is valid, your body is incredible, and you’re not alone. Curious about gentle, at-home fertility solutions or want to learn more about empowering options? Take a peek at resources designed to support you every step of the way.

What’s one kind thing you can do for yourself today? Share your thoughts in the comments — let’s inspire each other! 🌸

Ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to 'bounce back' after pregnancy? You're not alone.

Recently, I came across an eye-opening article by Emily Ricketts, a personal trainer who openly shared her experience of gaining over 50 pounds during pregnancy and how being kind to herself made getting fit again so much easier (read it here). Her story just hit home for me — and probably will for you, too.

You know, society bombards new moms with the idea that they need to ‘bounce back’ to their pre-pregnancy bodies almost immediately after giving birth. But what if this whole “bounce back” mentality is actually doing more harm than good? Emily’s approach was different — instead of rushing to shed pounds, she embraced the fact that she was starting fresh, like a beginner in fitness again, and that shift in mindset changed everything.

The Real Pressure Behind Postpartum Fitness

Why does it feel like there's an invisible countdown clock ticking the moment a baby is born? The “bounce back” culture can make new moms feel inadequate or rushed, which adds emotional stress on top of the physical and hormonal whirlwind they’re already navigating.

Emily’s story is refreshing because she tells us it’s okay to be gentle with ourselves. It’s not about rushing or punishing the body for the natural and beautiful changes pregnancy brings. Instead, it’s about honoring where you are and building strength at your own pace.

What Can We Learn From Emily’s Journey?

• Celebrate Starting Over: Feeling like a beginner again isn’t a setback — it’s an opportunity to rediscover your strength.
• Kindness Over Criticism: Treat yourself like you would a close friend. That means no harsh judgments or unrealistic deadlines.
• Fitness as Self-Care: Moving your body should feel empowering, not punishing.

This approach is especially powerful for people exploring different paths to parenthood, like those using at-home insemination kits. Whether you’re on a journey with yourself or a partner, kindness and patience can be your greatest allies.

Speaking of At-Home Fertility Solutions...

Navigating fertility can bring its own emotional rollercoaster. That’s why companies like MakeAMom are game-changers. They provide at-home insemination kits tailored to different needs — like low motility sperm or sensitivities such as vaginismus — all while respecting your privacy with discreet packaging. Their products are reusable and affordable, offering a supportive way to take control of your fertility journey in the comfort of your home.

Knowing there are accessible tools and compassionate communities out there can make a massive difference when things feel uncertain.

Why Emotional Wellness Is Just as Important as Physical Wellness

Postpartum is a unique season — your body is healing, your hormone levels fluctuate, and your identity is shifting. All of this means emotional wellness deserves center stage alongside physical health.

Emily’s journey reminds us that self-kindness isn’t just a feel-good phrase; it’s a practical strategy for real success. By embracing who you are right now, you set yourself up for sustainable fitness and a healthier mindset.

Final Thoughts

So, what if we threw out the old “bounce back” script? What if we told ourselves it’s okay to move slowly, be gentle, and celebrate every small victory?

Your journey to fitness and parenthood is uniquely yours. Embrace the challenge, honor your body, and lean on resources that support you holistically—from emotional wellness to tools that help achieve pregnancy on your terms.

Have you experienced pressure to ‘bounce back’ postpartum or struggled with self-kindness on your parenthood journey? I’d love to hear your story. Drop a comment below and let’s support each other.

And if you’re looking for compassionate, effective fertility tools to explore your options at home, check out MakeAMom’s range of at-home insemination kits. Sometimes, the right tools and mindset together make all the difference.

To kindness, strength, and your unique path ahead!