Why Being Kind to Your Postpartum Self Is the Ultimate Fitness Hack
What if the secret to postpartum fitness isn’t about bouncing back, but beginning anew?
Emily Ricketts, a personal trainer who gained over 50 pounds during pregnancy, recently shared her eye-opening journey on Business Insider. Instead of rushing to shed the weight and “bounce back” to her pre-pregnancy self, Emily embraced the feeling of being a beginner again — and it made all the difference.
If you’re reading this, maybe you’re somewhere on your own path toward parenthood or healing postpartum. Maybe you’re navigating home conception with hope and patience, or you’re just trying to find balance amid all the emotions that come with building a family. Emily’s story offers a powerful reminder: kindness to yourself is not just a luxury; it’s a game-changing strategy for long-term well-being.
Why Being Kind to Yourself Matters More Than Ever
From societal pressures to “bounce back” quickly to the physical challenges of pregnancy and postpartum recovery, women often face immense stress. But what if we flipped the script? What if the goal wasn’t a quick return, but a patient, loving progression?
When Emily stopped fighting against her body and instead celebrated the small victories—each step, each workout done with care—she felt stronger mentally and physically. This gentle approach can be applied to every stage of your fertility and pregnancy journey.
How Does This Relate to Home Conception?
For those embarking on the beautiful yet sometimes challenging path of home conception, patience and self-compassion are your greatest allies. Whether you're using innovative tools like MakeAMom's home insemination kits designed to empower individuals and couples outside the clinical setting, or navigating the emotional rollercoaster that comes with trying to conceive, treating yourself with kindness unlocks resilience.
MakeAMom’s products, such as the CryoBaby for frozen sperm or the BabyMaker for sensitive users, offer discreet, cost-effective paths to conception at home — supporting your journey on your terms. And much like Emily’s emphasis on starting fresh with compassion, MakeAMom encourages a supportive environment where you feel in control and hopeful.
The Beginner’s Mindset: Embrace It!
Feeling like a “beginner” can be scary. But it can also be empowering. It means you’re opening yourself up to growth, learning, and transformation. Instead of beating yourself up for perceived setbacks, think of them as stepping stones.
Here are a few ways to cultivate this mindset:
- Celebrate small wins. Every positive step counts.
- Practice patience. Your body and mind need time to adjust.
- Seek support. Connect with communities who understand the highs and lows.
- Be gentle with setbacks. They’re part of progress.
Incorporating Self-Kindness Into Your Routine
How can you start being kinder to yourself today? Here are some simple, effective tips:
- Start your day with affirmations that reinforce your worth beyond your physical appearance.
- Allow yourself moments of rest without guilt.
- Journal your feelings to process emotions instead of suppressing them.
- Use tools that fit your unique fertility needs, like MakeAMom’s reusable insemination kits that respect your privacy and budget.
A Final Thought: Your Journey Is Yours Alone
Pregnancy, postpartum fitness, and conception are deeply individual experiences. No two paths are the same, and that’s perfectly okay. The pressure to “bounce back” or “have it all together” can rob you of joy and peace. Instead, embrace the freedom that comes with kindness to yourself.
Inspired by Emily Ricketts’ story, why not reframe your journey not as a race, but as a powerful, transformative experience? Your body and heart are capable of incredible things — when nurtured with love and patience.
How will you show yourself kindness today?
Feel free to share your thoughts, stories, or questions below. Let’s build a supportive community where everyone’s journey is honored.
Read Emily Ricketts’ full inspiring story here: I’m a personal trainer who gained over 50 pounds while pregnant. Being kind to myself made getting fit again much easier
Explore compassionate home conception options at MakeAMom.