Oh, baby, we are getting close!
This week marks 33 weeks I have been incubating and growing a human in my body and needless to say, it’s been the most magical experience of my life.
We are at the point where I can feel baby’s foot glide against me from the inside and if I lightly poke at it, it moves. It doesn’t get more alien than that.
My feet have started to ache by the end of the day, but a good Theragun session from Anthony usually offers some relief. It’s like a jackhammer to my feet and it feels incredible. Tying my shoes is like holding my breath while underwater, walking up a flight of stairs is a bit like a short hike, and getting out of bed is the funniest part of this all. It’s more like a tuck and roll.
If all goes as planned, I still have seven weeks left. During this time I will nest until I can nest no longer, work with my doula, Jennifer from Mums Doula on birthing preparations, study with my Hypnobirthing Coach, Anuka, from Janu Joyfulk Services, on preparing my mind, body, and breath for birthing, and allow this time to slow down and enjoy every moment.
As the weeks go by so much of my body transforms. Honestly, the biggest change I have noticed, besides my obviously big belly, is the changes in my legs. They have stayed nice and strong, but they have no doubt gotten bigger. Chunkier, if you will. I have more cellulite, lumps, and bumps than I have ever had on my stems in my whole life.
I have read that this happens. And you know what, I’m ok with it. What am I going to do about it right now, stress? No way. Beat myself up and say I’ve gotten “fat” or I lost my body to pregnancy? Not a chance.
I’ve gained a body to pregnancy! Both my own – in a new way – and the body of a little baby.
For many years, I struggled with body image. I’ve shared a lot about that here on our blog. As women, we are told how to look, what to eat, not eat, and what to wear…society has kindly set us up for a lifetime of self-consciousness and body issues.
Goodness, if I have a daughter I can’t wait to tell her how beautiful her body is no matter her shape and size.
Two months ago I decided that I no longer need to know my weight at my appointments. I just turn around. What’s the point? If there was a concern, I’d hear about it from my doctor. But as for me, one less thing to stress and worry about does a mind good! I’ve done my best I can this pregnancy not to go crazy with sweets and maintain exercise. I’ve allowed myself space to let my body do what it is going to do for me and the baby.
I know my body will never be the same. I grew a freaking baby in this vessel, how could I expect it to go back exactly the way it was?
So yeah, maybe my legs will remain lumpy, maybe they won’t.
But just like our nursery not being ready for when the baby arrives, worrying about the beautiful changes my body has made (even if society doesn’t deem them beautiful) will serve me no purpose.
Besides the physical that can be seen, for the most part, I am feeling pretty good and I credit that to yoga, meditation, Prenatal Pilates with Marcia from Great Balancing Act Pilates, lots and lots of walking, a body pillow by Boppy, and water (lots of it).
And lastly, a sense of humor. This ride is wild! Every morning after I admire my growing belly, I often throw in a giggle because there is something so sweetly funny about the way I look. And not in a bad way, but in a very new, OMG, how is this happening type of way.
Recently, a midwife was in one of my yoga classes and after class, she came up to me with her hands open ready for a handful of belly. I actually love when people ask if they can touch it. Honestly, with all the madness happening in our world, if a baby bump brings that much joy to someone, go ahead and have a rub!
While feeling for the position of the baby, she told me that she was happy to see that I was still teaching. That staying active and moving my body is the best thing I can do to prepare for birthing.
And just that morning I was thinking to myself: should I stop teaching soon?
Perhaps I’ll pull back a bit, but I’ll take an expert’s recommendation and continue to move, move, move.
It does a pregnant body good.
A few things I am loving:
Stranger Things, Season 4. Omg, it’s so good. Intense, but good!
This clean shampoo and conditioner. Smells like the beach and has my hair looking and feeling real good.
This dress from Vintage Charm. With or without a bump – it is perfection! Our code TSP10 will get you 10% off of your online and/or in-store purchase.
Moms Demand Action. I joined my first zoom meeting and excited to take part in change however I can. If you’re looking to get involved in gun legislation and safer gun laws, this is a good start.
Alba body oil. It’s extra hydrating. And for my belly, this shea butter – it’s incredible!
To help with some minor aches and pains, the Equilibria Recovery Roll-On has been a gift to this pregnant body of mine. Our code THESISTERPROJECT will get you 15% off of your first order.
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