Self-Compassion is Always in Fashion.

Forgiveness is a virtue of the brave.

Earlier this week we celebrated Forgiveness Day and let some light shine on certain relationships in our lives that need some attention. When we live more compassionately, it nourishes our mental and emotional health and ultimately leaves us feeling more fulfilled.

Forgiveness Day isn't just about focusing attention on our loved ones, it's also about learning to not be hard on ourselves.

When the going gets tough or we feel overwhelmed, we take it out on ourselves. This becomes regular practice during the transition of becoming a parent, but it doesn't have to be! 

Practice some self-forgiveness and you might just be surprised how empowered you feel. 

Self-Forgiveness and the Mom-to-be

The expectations we put on ourselves can be a tall order. We expect things to go in a specific way and when it doesn't it can really take a hit on our self esteem. When you think all pregnancies are the same, you're in for a surprise! Every pregnancy and birth is unique and when we practice some self compassion, each step along the way is more rewarding. 

Don't be hard on yourself if things aren't going quite the way we expected. Take on each obstacle or change as it comes and with the strength of a good support system, self-forgiveness and compassion is sure to follow. 

Self-Forgiveness and New Parents

Straight out the gate, it can be intimidating to take on a full plate of parenting all at once. Instead of worrying about making a mistake, celebrate the little wins. Celebrate all the wins of feeling like the strong and capable parent you're becoming! 

Mistakes are part of the learning process and parenting is no different. When we practice self-forgiveness, the bumps in the road aren't so nerve wracking and it becomes easier to feel more confident as you sit back and enjoy the experience. Kids are messy, they get hurt, they say the darnedest things and it's all part of what makes being a parent a whole lot of fun. 

Parenting might not be what you thought it would be, but that doesn't mean you aren't doing a great job at being a parent. Whatsoever. 

In the crazy journey that we call life, you're always on the right path. 

Even if you need to stop for directions every now and then, learning to forgive yourself for taking a wrong turn or the scenic route is more important than you think. Support along the way can keep your chin up when you don't feel as in-control as you expected. 

So in honor of Forgiveness Day, let's start by giving ourselves the credit we deserve.

You got this. 

 

Yoga for Pregnancy and Birth

It's International Yoga Day! 

For many people, it's yoga day everyday. 

Yoga is an incredible exercise and it's often looked over as a powerful way to engage your muscles, help you slim down and manage stress. 

During pregnancy and birth, stress management is important and a yoga routine can help expectant women control their breathing and be more in control of their body. Breathing techniques are important especially during birth to support women through contractions and encourage a more comfortable and confident labor experience. 

Yoga positions utilize your body's full range of motion to balance your body's energy on core muscles, keeping you feeling refreshed while staying lean and toned. Some positions and yoga techniques take strain off your back, neck and hips which make them helpful in late stage pregnancy or to be more comfortable during contractions. 

By incorporating yoga into your daily routine while you're pregnant, it can improve your flexibility and blood flow. Improved flexibility can help open your pelvic floor and encourage your baby to assume a safe position for birth. 

Whether you're new, intermediate or an advanced yogi, there's always something new to challenge your body. 

Yoga is a gentle alternative to exercises that may be harsh on sore joints and is easy to do in the comfort of your own home. There's some yoga positions you can even do in bed before you fall asleep or first thing in the morning to help your body relax. 

This healthy habit doesn't have to stop at your baby's birth.

Postpartum yoga can help new mothers regain strength in their pelvic floor muscles and even encourage their uterus to shrink back down to it's pre-baby shape and size. 

Give yoga a try and celebrate an easy and rewarding change to your lifestyle to keep you feeling calm, relaxed and healthy at any stage of mommy-hood.