It takes your body almost a year to grow an entire human being. During this time, your body experiences so many changes. While it’s completely understandable to want to get back to your pre-pregnancy body as soon as possible, it’s important to note that this process will take time. However, there are tons of ways to diligently use the time you have to develop a productive and healthy bounce-back process.
1. Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting is an excellent method you can use in order to drop lots of weight. It involves eating between specific intervals and avoiding food during the other intervals. You can still drink water, black coffee, and unsweetened tea during the hours that you’re fasting. Plus, your fasting time includes the times you’re asleep. You don’t have to get on a particular diet when you choose to do intermittent fasting. However, you still want to remain mindful of the calories you’re taking in. Many people opt for a 16:8 period. During this time, most people fast for 16 hours and fast for eight. This means you can start eating at 12 noon and stop at 8 pm. You get to choose a window that works best for you.
2. Increased Water Intake
The human body needs water in order to survive and thrive. If you’re someone who tends to rely on multiple cups of coffee in order to feel energized, chances are you could stand to drink more water. When a person is adequately hydrated, it’s easier for the body to run efficiently. Water flushes the system of toxins, and it helps the digestive system to operate to move waste along. If you’re not used to drinking a lot of water, it’s a great idea to keep a bottle of water by your bedside each night. When you wake up in the morning, drink water first. Set timers on your phone that remind you to drink a bottle of water. Keep a bottle close by so that it’s easy to take a few sips at a time. It’s also great to include water-rich foods into your diet such as watermelon and cucumbers. It’s okay to eat your water as well.
3. Professional Assistance
If you weren’t well-versed in what it takes for you to lose weight, tone your body, or achieve specific fitness goals before you had a baby, the postpartum journey won’t make it any easier. Plus, there are plenty of factors that come into play when you give birth. Most women deal with a ton of hormonal imbalances that play a role in weight loss and gain. Plenty of women deal with an issue called diastasis recti. It’s a quite common condition that involves the splitting of the abdominal muscles. In turn, this makes a woman look pregnant when she’s not. If this is your experience, it’s wise to incorporate exercises that help with diastasis recti repair to achieve your ideal body.
4. Quality Nutrition
Do your best to make sure you’re consuming the right foods. Make sure your meals are filled with protein, complex carbs, and fiber. Well-rounded meals will help your system operate at its best. It’s also good to pack healthy snacks to replace the junk food you’re used to consuming. Give yourself a cheat meal once or twice a week so that you won’t feel deprived and run the risk of binge-eating later on.
5. Exercise
Exercise is very helpful when you’re working to burn calories, strengthen your body, and improve your flexibility. Do your best to incorporate at least 30 minutes to an hour of every day. If you lose weight but have stiff joints, you’ll still suffer. Try to develop a well-rounded routine that includes stretching, cardiovascular workouts, and strength-training exercises.
As you work on developing your pre-pregnancy body, remember that your body has been through so much. Whether your goal involves toning, weight loss, or a combination of the two, be gentle with yourself. While it’s good and wise to set realistic goals, always remember that your health and happiness are paramount. Plus, your baby deserves to experience a happy mother. As you keep everything in balance, you’ll have an easier time transforming your body into your ideal form.
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
