So, as you've probably noticed around here - my life is totally different as a parent. I thought before I had D that I'd still write about all kinds of things lifestyle related, but you can pretty much tell as you scroll through... I spend all my time mom-ing now. Taking care of baby business and basically living the life of a toddler's snack chef is my 24/7 - I'm not complaining though, this is the life I've always dreamed of. Delainey truly is a blessing and I'm so thankful to get to spend all my time with her.
With that said, I've had to learn to make time for myself too. I'm learning to master the art of balance in my life, in more ways than one really. It's been a struggle over the past year or so, but now that D's nearly 13 months, I'm starting to get the hang of things... maybe? She's teaching me lessons at the same time I'm trying to teach her about life, it's a balancing act in itself and one that'll be a lifelong thing - that's what parenthood really is, after all.
Ultimately, finding "me" time and still making more than enough time for her is my goal. I've been trying to do more for me, without taking away from her... so I've been practicing yoga a little more with her as my partner, meditating as much as possible while embracing her wild and crazy noisy self, and contemplating ways we all can work on balancing our lives - hence today's post.
There's no coincidence I started this new balanced lifestyle in September either, it's National Yoga Month - which means I'm not just trying to balance my life, but I'm working on my "yoga-game" lately as well and trying to find more balance there. The thing is, yoga isn't just an awesome way to build physical balance, it's a great way to center your mind and find balance mentally as well. Are you wanting to find more balance in your life? Here's my list, inspired by my most recent Peace, Love, and Yoga Babbleboxx goodies:
1. Flow - While drinking plenty of water is one important way to maintain balance in your life, the way I'm addressing flow today is more in the manner of "going with the flow". While practicing yoga, listen to your body. When you're having a rough day, try not to sweat the small stuff. Let things roll off your back, instead of worrying about every detail, and you'll soon discover, life is much happier this way.
2. Hard Work - When we have a million voices screaming at us to quit, it's easy to give up... but the thing is - quitting won't get us anywhere.
Whether it's anxious thoughts overwhelming you while prepping for a gym session, the thought of needing to quit while in a tough yoga pose, or the overwhelming urgency of needing to eat making you desperate to break your diet, there's no need to "quit". Hard work always pays off, in your thoughts, in the gym, while practicing yoga, and even when you stick to a tough diet.
With that said, making sure you are getting enough protein as a momma on the go can be tough. Check out how you can ensure your body stays nourished with Ascent Protein — The Official Sponsor of Hard Work. Coming in flavors like chocolate, vanilla bean, and lemon sorbet, I'm always craving these and love being able to make sure my body is getting what it needs, easily in yummy shake form! Want to try this delicious "reward" for all your hard work? Use the code 'YOGA' for 10% off!
3. Escape - I know I'm not the only one that just needs an escape every once in a while. It's not even just limited to a "mom thing". So when I find a book I just love, I have to share. Plus this one is a #1 New York Times Best Seller & one of Oprah's Book Club Selections in 2016, so you know it's good. Love Warrior is a painfully honest book written by Glenn Doyle Melton, about life, about love, about trusting. We are all born to be warriors and this women's memoir is a reminder that we all are powerful, capable, and brave enough to fight for what we want. At the same time, it's super raw and open, about everything. If you're looking for a gripping book, you know, the type with little bits so well-phrased and interesting that you highlight the pages... this is it.
4. Energize - Kombucha is something I've loved since I tried it, not only because it's healthy... but it's actually super tasty! I love trying new foods and I'll try anything once, but the first time I sipped kombucha, I knew it was a life-long love type of thing.
With that said, KeVita Master Brew kombucha has me feeling the same way. Fermented with a kombucha tea culture, has live probiotics, organic acids, organic caffeine (hellllllooooooooo life source), and it's also verified non-alcoholic!
I try to limit myself on kombucha since D is nursing still but I can't wait to try all the invigorating flavors! With options ranging from pineapple peach to root beer, they have kombucha everyone will love.
5. Nourish - On the same yummy note, B.O.S.S. Bars are a new family favorite! With amazing flavor combinations and premium, all raw
ingredients. These are "treats" I don't have to hide from Delainey when
I'm snacking... but sometimes I sneak away for a second anyways, just
to savor the flavor and treat myself, without having to share! LOL.
Why
do I love these so much? With paleo flavors like Dazzle, Think, Move,
Smile, what's not to love? I think so far we have enjoyed the 'Smile'
bar the most, although they all are delicious gluten-free snacks. Which
flavor catches your interest the most? Grab a stash of these goodies here
and you can score free shipping on any 5-pack and/or case of 12 on
their website through October 15, 2017 w/code BABBLEBOSS (or you can
always score some on Amazon Prime)!
6. Sweeten - Some days, life just needs a little sweetness added to it. The most recent addition to the In the Raw sweeteners, NEW Organic Stevia In The Raw is the best way to add that bit of sweetness without worrying about GMOs. This natural sweetener is my favorite way to make sure my espresso tastes just right... and since it comes in tiny little packets, I take it everywhere with me.
7. Freshen - Let's be honest, some days we don't have time to take multiple showers... but chasing these babies around definitely makes us feel a little heated alllllll day long. Or is that just me? Either way, I sometimes feel the need to freshen up mid-day... and when I don't have the time to take an all out shower, I reach for Simply Summer's Eve Cleansing cloths. These little handy-dandy personal care wipes help balance your natural pH and wipe away unwanted, odor causing bacteria - the perfect way to make sure your lady bits stay fresh, no matter how active you are!
8. Switch Perspective - Life really is all about perspective,
trying to find the positive in every situation is really the best way to
look at things - in my eyes, anyways. Nopun intended. The thing is, that isn't always easy. When
things get rough, it's best to allow yourself to be upset for a moment.
Then push past it and find a way to look at it differently.
When baby is throwing a fit and all you want to do is cry with her, instead sit down, get on her eye level and start to play. I almost guarantee that little shift in your behavior will alter her behavior as well. Life really is all about how you look at it, so try and enjoy every moment and find the good in it all. Some days it's nice to take things in from an admiring 1 year old's stance, she definitely makes the mundane seem interesting and the boring seem bright... and what is there not to love about that?!
9. Embrace - On that note, learning to embrace the crazy, the long nights, the crying, and the tough moments has probably been my biggest struggle as a parent. Therefore, it's where I've had to work at balancing life the most since D's arrival. I can honestly say I'm still working on embracing it all, but I try and take it all in now. I find balance in embracing all parts of our daily life by trying to remind myself she's only little once, regardless of how tough she can be.
Even on my busiest of days, I love the moments she needs me. When I'm struggling to get things done, I still love when she just wants mama snuggles and nothing else will do.... and when she only laughs at me and nothing else can make her giggle, those are the moments I'll always cherish. I feel honored that she loves me so much, with this extravagant, over-the-top, adoring type of love... and the thing is, I somehow love her so much more than that.
So tell me, how do you embrace parenthood? How have you achieved balance in your life as a parent? ...or if you're still navigating through the first few years of parenthood (like me), be sure to leave me some input on how you're managing to balance your life right now! Also, be sure to check out all the goodies I shared today, for your chance to refresh, sweeten, and nourish your soul.
Here's the thing, having a baby is the biggest blessing in the world... I'm so lucky to finally have my little blessing. She is very well my biggest accomplishment in this life and I'm SO proud of her and so proud of myself for giving life to this wonderful, sweet, little light.
And well, you know, I'm not trying to be a party pooper but everyone only really talks about all of the amazing parts of having a baby. You hear about the happy moments, sometimes even the touching moments, but no one mentions the uhhhh... not so pretty parts of motherhood.
It's true, life isn't all rainbows and butterflies after giving birth - contrary to popular belief. No one mentions that:
1. Your stomach turns into a pillow - I had high hopes that my tummy would bounce back from being stretched out enough to hold a volleyball sized baby to a flat and toned little tummy, but then I woke up from that dream and saw my stretch marks and my giant belly. Not everyone is as unlucky as me, but it's totally normal to have a flabby belly after giving birth.
Honestly, I'm 8 months out and just now starting to feel like I really need to do something about it - i.e. exercise more enthusiastically. Some people are more gung-ho about getting back into shape and those are the people that likely bounce back a little easier. With that said, embrace your extra fluff while also working on your fitness and maybe take a minute or two to cuddle that baby - there's nothing wrong with some curves and the stretch marks will fade, babies don't keep - after all.
2. You're, uhhh, going to be a little damp - Well, honey, I've got some news, you thought that crazy amount of discharge was going to stop when you had your baby - wrong! And... I mean, eventually and unapologetically your pesky Aunt Flo will be paying you a visit again sometime - that's just mother nature for you.
Luckily, U by Kotex Fitness Tampons, Pads, and Panty Liners are a thing - so you're saved! Whether you need protection while toning your core during yoga class or you plan on running a marathon, U by Kotex Fitness are made to fit and form with your body and provide comfortable protection for your busy self.
That's right, you don't have to worry about any nonsense - U by Kotex & Walgreens have you covered! Plus, I have your back - use this rebate offer & save on these postpartum (and all the time) essentials!
3. Watch out... Here comes Big foot! - Yes, mama, I'm talking about you! Okay, well maybe not really but... if you're a shoe hoarder like me you may want to start destashing on ebay while you're pregnant. It's a sad but true fact, your foot grows while you are pregnant and it doesn't shrink back - much like your stomach. The good news is, you now have something to look forward to - shoe shopping!
4. Sleeping in a Pool - This sounds like a luxury vacation... right? WRONG! Another odd but true thing your body does postpartum is sweat profusely at night. I can remember waking up drenched and wondering what had happened, I was cold, I slept without blankets, and still - covered in sweat. It's actually your body ridding itself of all those amazing hormones that helped create your baby... but it's disgusting and you'll probably want a couple of changes of sheets so you don't have to sleep in your own sweat again and again.
5. Go ahead and Start Calling yourself Betsy - If you're breastfeeding that is definitely going to feel like your new name and you'll practically feel like you have udders too. Breastfeeding is such a rewarding part of motherhood but it's not an easy task. At first it hurts... and don't let anyone tell you any differently. Then it's constant, like almost 24/7. You'll want to give up... and it's totally okay if you do - fed is best, after all...then there's always the possibility of engorgement or mastitisis.
But that's all worth it for the benefits of breastfeeding, in my opinion... and the good news is, it all gets better and easier.
6. Want a new hairstyle? Well, you're going to get one. I've always had SUPER thick hair, never had a worry in the world... then I had D. Now my hair is thin, stringy, and gets greasy easier... and somehow lost some of its natural curl. Hair loss is a horrible part of postpartum that I absolutely thought wouldn't effect me... but it did. Oh and did I mention you'll have some hair growth in places you never have before, thanks to those totally awesome fluctuating hormone levels.
7. Party time on the Potty - Well, it's really the opposite of a party... but I wanted it to sound fun. Your first postpartum bowel movement after having your baby will be uncomfortable, to be frank. I was terrified, maybe even more intimidated than I was to give birth. Turns out, I really didn't have much to be scared of. But trust me, you'll be intimidated to poop after having your baby... even if you went while giving birth, which if you didn't know - $h*t happens all the time during child birth and it's totally normal. Oh... and I'm a person that prior to having a baby never even admitted to tooting, now look at me writing about bowel movements on my blog - so I guess you could say your comfort level regarding things like this will likely change as well.
8. Be mindful of postpartum depression and anxiety - Speaking of comfort levels, be aware that postpartum depression & anxiety are both very real. Be careful of the thoughts you choose to focus on and seek help if you are feeling desperate or especially uneasy.
While I luckily didn't really seem to suffer from postpartum depression or anxiety, I've experienced both in my life time and never want anyone to feel that discomfort. While neither condition is preventable, I suggest you take some time and do something for yourself every once in a while, make sure you seek support from your spouse, your family, and your friends, and just try and live in the moment.
9. It's time to discover your new skin - That's right even your skin changes. If you developed stretch marks, those are definitely a huge change so I'm sure you know what I mean. What you don't know is that your skin will likely react differently to your favorite lotion, it may burn easier in the sun, and your skin care routine may need to even be changed to give you the best glow you can get.
10. No longer you - Another thing that no one mentions is you literally are no longer who you used to be. You are "mom" and while that title is a huge honor, it also means you are no longer just living for you. Your life is now ran by a tiny milk-loving dictator and that means you're in for one crazy, sweet, wild, enjoyable ride.
With all of that said, there's one other thing no one mentions... that's the highs. The heights your emotions will reach from watching your child grow and learn. The first time you see your child smile, the first time you hear the word mama, those first tumbling steps towards you... and your heart will swell with a level of joy and pride you've never even dreamed of feeling before, and that... that is what makes it all worth it. That is what motherhood is all about.
Thanks to Premier Protein for sponsoring today's discussion,
regardless all opinions expressed below are completely my own.
I can't even believe my baby will be half a year old soon, she's getting so big so quick, and I'm so honored to be her mommy. What I'm not so happy about is all this baby weight I still seem to be carrying around, so I'm doing something about it in 2017!
I want to be in shape to be able to enjoy every single moment with Lainey, which means I need to shed these extra lbs NOW! I'm not doing anything dramatic, there's no use in that... but with everything I AM doing combined, I've managed to shed a few lbs in just 2 weeks. I'm excited to say, if I keep this up I'll be seeing my pre-pregnancy weight on the scale in no time!
So, are you a new mama hoping to be able to squeeze into her pre-pregnancy jeans? Are you wanting to shed the baby weight without taking time away from the baby? That's where these tips will come in handy.
1. Be Determined - This is the most important part of your weight loss journey and the simplest if you really want a change in your life. Having enough strength and determination to spend time exercising is tough and adjusting your diet can be grueling, but as long as you set your mind to it... you can do it!
2. Meal Plan - It's easy to meal plan. I suggest following the 80/20 rule. What do I mean by 80/20? Well, it's simple, a majority (80%) of your daily food intake is defined as healthy "good for you" items like veggies, protein, etc... and the other 20% of your diet consists of more indulgent items like sugary organic fresh fruits, dairy, and even things like cake or pizza in small amounts. It's all about making sure your portion sizes are correct, so instead of playing a guessing game - start meal planning and portioning out your daily nutrition, after all, abs are made in the kitchen.
3. Add Baby to Your Workout - It's easy to get a work out in when you want your baby to be a part of it! If your babe is really little like mine, it's easy to include them in your routine - from mommy and baby yoga classes to weight training using your infant as your small weight. If you have an older little one, encourage them to participate in a workout with you - whether you enjoy a jog together or do a pilates tape as you giggle with each other, have fun and get active with your babe!
4. Stay Hydrated - Making sure you are getting enough water is vital to your weight loss. Your body functions better and digests food differently when it's fully hydrated, so allow your body to work at full capacity by making sure you always drink more than enough water!
5. Find support - Spending time with people that are in the same boat can be refreshing and being able to hold each other accountable is so nice, so find a group of women who also want to change their lives and start getting healthier.
6. Consume more protein (Premier Protein) - Instead of adding a carb to every meal, I suggest you add more protein! There are 25 grams in a Premier Protein shake and they make the best post workout fuel, just energizing enough to give me the pick-me-up I need to continue on with my day. Fuel your body and feel better about consuming less calories (at only 150 cals) when you choose Premier Protein. Plus, I find comfort in knowing no artificial sweeteners, colors, or flavors are added to these tasty shakes and the taste can't be beat!
7.Use a motivator - Instead of just hoping to see a certain number on the scale, I suggest having a goal item in your closet that you want to wear and spend time admiring it each week. It'll serve as a good reminder of how far you've come, especially once it finally fits well!
8. Stay Entertained - This one should be fairly self explainatory, but I know I'm guilty of doing it... so let me go ahead and say it, NO BOREDOM EATING. It's a waste of calories, it doesn't serve you, and you likely have things you could be doing with your time that don't involve eating for no reason other than your bored.
While I'm still a work in progress, making sure to utilize this list has helped me tremendously with my weight loss. I can't wait to share that I've hit my weight loss goal in a few months, but until then I'm going to continue working towards a better me. With that said, what ways are you working on a better you in 2017?
Thanks to Horizon for sponsoring today's discussion, regardless all opinions expressed below are my own.
I wish it wasn't true, but I'm like most new mamas and I have a little "pooch". I suppose you could call me, uhhh... dare I say "fluffy" in the middle. While this isn't something I'm proud of, I am proud of the fact I'm committing to a lifestyle change and because of this I'm going to be healthier in 2017!
With so many gimmicks and silly rumors about how you can lose weight, it's easy to see why some people fall for all of that. The truth is, the best, most efficient way to lose extra weight is to work at it.
So instead of wasting money on some silly new pyramid scheme diet drink, I suggest you look into upping your fitness gear and start monitoring your diet. With that said, here are 8 things everyone hoping to shed some pounds should do:
1. Start by taking a Multivitamin, daily - Whether you are a new mama or a seasoned parenting veteran, taking a multivitamin is an important part of your daily routine and it's an easy step to take! Grab a bottle that has everything you need to balance your diet and start feeling the effects immediately!
2. Add The Perfect Workout Machine to your home - Finding the time to go to the gym isn't always a possibility, but when you bring the gym to you... you have no excuse! Horizon Fitness Machines are the answer to getting in a daily work out. The simple, easy to assemble and use fitness machines make getting started and sticking with your new year's resolution a breeze. Having a machine that's designed to fit your body so that you can move naturally while working out is life changing... and, not only are Horizon Fitness Machines easy to use, they offer featherlight folding technology - meaning your machine will fit perfectly in your living space without having to make room for bulky equipment. Click here to find out more about which Horizon Fitness Machine you want to add to your home and work out routine.
3. Start dressing comfortable while working out - This one is a no-brainer... but sometimes I forget! I'll blame it on my mommy brain. None the less, dressing comfortably for a work out is a game changer for me. Wearing gym shorts or athletic capris and a loose cut off shirt is my "fashionable" choice for work out gear, you have to find what works for you and wear it! If you feel like working out in little to nothing, that's an option too (if you invest in a Horizon Fitness Machine)!
4. Use a calorie/step counter - Using a calorie counter helps you keep track of what you are ingesting and on that same not, a step counter helps you keep track of what you are burning. Finding that fine line of eating well and eating the right amount while also burning enough calories can be tricky for some, so choosing to keep track of what you eat and your workouts can really elevate your weightloss to the next level. Aim for a certain calorie amount each day, to take in and burn... and your weight loss will be noticable in no time!
5. Find some support in a waist trainer - This one is more for the new mamas... but can help anyone with some extra fluff in the middle. Wearing a waist trainer a few hours a day can help keep your middle section looking fit... and it's been proven to help with posture as well! I'm not suggesting you always wear a waist trainer but wearing one while netflix and chilling after a long day won't hurt!
6. Do Double-duty & include baby in workouts occasionally - Make your daily work out fun for you and your kiddos. If you have a tiny tot, including them in lifts as a "weight" can be a fun way to make sure the whole family is included... and if you have big kids be sure to get them in on the fun and encourage them to start going for walks or doing your yoga routine with you!
7. Rest whenever you can - Resting is easier said than done, especially as a parent to a little one... but get in some ZzZz's while you can! Not getting enough sleep could upset your metabolism and ruin all the hard work you put into your "new you"! So don't feel guilty if you lay down and snooze while your baby is napping too, it's important that you are well-rested for yourself, your fitness, and your kids!
8. Believe in yourself - This last tip is a bit cheesy but so important, knowing you are capable of accomplishing your goals is the first step to making them a reality. Start a fun way of tracking your progress, maybe with a jar of marbles that you transfer to a new jar with each lbs. you lose or by taking weekly progress pictures.... Not only are you keeping yourself accountable with a way of tracking your weight loss, it'll also show you how far you've come once your fitness journey is completed!
With all of that said, I'm so incredibly happy to be celebrate the new year and I can't wait to see what 2017 brings... I know it'll include a healthier version of me. So tell me, what do you hope to accomplish in 2017?
I have been compensated by Sundown
Naturals® and Pollinate
Media Group for this post as part of a social shopper
marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Sundown Naturals®
but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #GoodnessGiveaway #sharethegoodness http://my-disclosur.es/OBstV
Having a newborn in the house is truly a task in itself. Don't get me wrong,
I'm happy to wake up with her all hours of the evening and I'm actually
overjoyed to cater to her cries, but as other mamas know - it's hard to take
time for yourself when your entire life revolves around caring for this new,
tiny human.
Now that it's been a little over 7 weeks
since her arrival, I'm finally trying to get back into the swing of things and
take care of myself, not just her. I'm not going overboard and indulging
myself, but allowing myself to do things every mama should. If you're also a
new mama or you just need a reminder on how you can take better care of
yourself, this list is for you. So grab a glass of water (or wine, whichever
you prefer), and let's talk!
1. Use your free time wisely - This is easier said than done, but instead of
just sitting around watching Netflix while your little one snoozes, get up,
take advantage of this “free time” and get things accomplished. Whether you're
delaying a DIY project you swear you'll work on one day or you just need
to fold some laundry, take a moment while your baby is sleeping during the day to
get things accomplished!
2. Start taking a probiotic – Personally, I love the Sundown Naturals® Probiotic
gummies. They're a delicious way to keep
my body healthy! Available in pineapple, raspberry, and orange flavors, these
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3. Get fishy - Speaking of gummies and health support, if you are breastfeeding
I highly recommend adding Fish Oil to your daily routine! While Sundown Naturals® Fish Oil
gummies provide you with Omega-3s and Vitamin D3 and give you the support you
need for your heart, bones, immune system, and so much more, they also pass on
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other Sundown
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4. Get your blood pumping - After you've gotten the all clear from your doctor,
start getting your body back by adding a little work out to your daily routine.
Take a moment and do some mommy & me yoga with your darling or find a gym
with a sitter and allow yourself some time to really concentrate on your
workout, either way it'll be good to get back into shape!
5. Focus on you - Speaking of yoga and getting back into shape, while you're
working on your physical self, it's a good idea to start meditating some and
learning to follow your instincts. While I'm still a new parent I've found it
seems to be instinctual, so far, and meditating allows you to listen a little
closer to your instincts.
6. Treat yourself - Buy yourself something new or get a little treat for yourself,
at least once a month. I like to get pedicures or buy new clothes, each
month... sometimes both. Doing a little retail therapy & a bit of spoiling
yourself at the spa won't hurt anyone and it’ll definitely help you feel more
like you. Call ahead and schedule a massage, go shopping at your favorite
place, or even just grab yourself your favorite treat - allow yourself to feel
spoiled and your guaranteed to have happier days with your baby!
So tell me, what are your tips for handling life with a newborn? I'd love to
hear all about your experience in the comments below! Also, don't forget to
take a short quiz to find out which Sundown
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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug
Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or
prevent any disease.
◊Applies to all products manufactured after 5/1/15. Please check back of
label as manufacture dates may vary.
I wish it wasn't true, but I'm like most new mamas and I have a little "pooch". I suppose you could call me, uhhh... dare I say "fluffy" in the middle. While this isn't something I'm proud of, I am proud of the fact I'm committing to a lifestyle change and because of this I'm going to be healthier in 2017!
