I’ve been sitting on this post for a couple weeks at least. Staring it it. Still a little embarrassed by some of the words and the mental images they create. I debated including pictures but I don’t think they are necessary. Then I got mad at myself for being embarrased and decided
what the hell?!
I have been blessed with two beautiful kids. I wouldn’t change that for the world but it should also come at no surprise that carrying two kids for 9 months has a tendency to cause changes, physically and otherwise. I ALSO know that social media can play a big role (like it or not) in how women view themselves.
I post pictures on IG all the time highlighting my workouts, sometimes my nutrition and my kids. I make a concerted effort to be real with you. The pictures aren’t perfect but neither am I and I don’t want you to thing that I am. So in the spirit of hopefully reversing some of the negativity that can come from comparing ourselves, I thought I would point out some of the physical and forever flaws I have as a result of motherhood.
Am I self conscious of these things? I would be lying if I said an adamant NO. I talked about it here.
Do I let them hold me back? Nope. I wear them like I wear my NUMEROUS scars, like a badge of honor. I can’t reverse them but I also wouldn’t want to reverse what I got in exchange.
So just know that I look in the mirror, I see these things. I acknowledge them and then I move on.
- Gray hair…Maybe it’s coincidence but the number of gray hairs I have to attempt to cover up continues to grow.
- Smaller chest…I guess it could be considered TMI to tell you this but it’s true. I didn’t think it was possible to have LESS but turns out it is. Breastfeeding did a number on me.
- Extra skin…It’s evident on my stomach and my lower back, but it’s another reason I won’t be too quick to put a belly button ring in (again..those silly 20’s) I gained almost 70 lb’s with E and it shows.
- Vericose Veins…I think these are hereditary. They started popping up literally when I was pregnant and now they are here to stay.
- The shelf…Call it what you will but my lower abdomen will never be flat again. Regardless of how I eat, or how much I exercise, my abdomen will never look like it did before kids.
- Permanent smile…Ok that might be a little mushy but the point is that even with all the changes or perceived flaws, I wouldn’t change it for the world.
So next time you look in the mirror and start judging yourself too harshly, stop and remember that you are your harshest critique. You are gorgeous, your body is amazing and it’s ok to see beauty in yourself.
What physically forever signs do you have?
It’s true- pregnancy and motherhood change us physically but it’s so worth it. I have the varicose veins as well, thanks to genes and pregnancy. It bothered me more after my first but at this point I really don’t care anymore!
I’m a mom, too, and boy, do I know what you are talking about in this post! The thing that shocked me about breastfeeding, particularly, is how quickly they went from something I could feel proud about to “well, these are working breasts. That’s how working breasts look!”
I’m a mom to two (6 and 2) and I can relate in all aspects of this post! I have more grays to count (and too lazy to keep dying), a flat chest (any Dr. who says breastfeeding doesn’t change their appearance is a LIAR!) and a pooch that won’t quit.
I hate to admit that I’m loving seeing more and more woman (celebrities) are posting post baby bods that aren’t perfect even with a clean diet and exercise, It helps build a sense of pride, accomplishment and like you said, a badge. I’m proud to be a mom and I wouldn’t change my appearance for anything. Granted, I would like the pooch to flatten out but I’m healthy and my boys are happy and healthy so win win!