Too Tired To Exercise, Mom?

Simply Too Tired In the early “daze” of motherhood all the attention is on caring for your newborn, it’s easy to forget about your own needs. More to the point, you’re simply too tired. Yes, you’re sleep-deprived. Yes, your hormones are all over the place. And yes, you’ve passed your six-week check-up with flying colors! You want your body back and you know you should begin exercising, but you’re exhausted. So what’s a mom to do? Take Five, Mom Just breathe. Yes, that’s what I said.  Inhale through your nose and feel your belly rise and expand, along with your ribcage and lungs. Exhale, and everything deflates. Continue breathing in this way, and begin pulling your navel in towards your spine as you let the air out. Activating your abdominals like this, after pregnancy, is a great way to begin strengthening those muscles that have been weakened during pregnancy. With every breath you are feeding your body oxygen which will increase energy levels. Engaging the abdominal muscles automatically lifts your ribcage, improving posture as well as giving your lower back much needed support. Baby Steps Start small, mom, but be consistent. Begin with three days a week. As your energy levels increase, gradually add activities that motivate you to stay on track like walking or dancing to your favorite music.  Regular exercise increases endorphins, which stabilize hormone levels to help ward off depression and lower stress. The payoff will result in you feeling better about yourself with more energy to add intensity and more workouts. The Payoff When you feel good you look good, and what’s good for you is good for your family! What moves you?