Bringing a new life into the world is a remarkable experience, but it also comes with its fair share of physical and emotional challenges.
After giving birth, many new Mums find themselves on a journey to kickstart their bodies, and this often includes postnatal exercise.
However, the advantages of postnatal exercise extend far beyond physical fitness - it can have a profound impact on your mental health as well.
Here's 8 reasons why we love postnatal exercise as a tool for keeping your mind healthy.
1. Mood Boosting
Hormonal changes during pregnancy and the postnatal period can lead to mood swings and sometimes feelings of anxiety and depression. Engaging in postnatal exercise releases endorphins, those feel-good ‘happy’ chemicals in the brain that act as natural mood lifters. Regular physical activity can help improve your overall emotional well-being.
2. Stress Reducing
Caring for a child (no matter their age!) can be stressful, and a bit of stress is natural. Strength In Mumbers classes provide you with an outlet to release any stress and anxiety, both via exercise and also a good chat with fellow Mums!
3. Sleep Improving
Sleepless nights are a common experience for new parents. Regular exercise can help improve the quality of your sleep, and who doesn’t want better sleep?!
4. Confidence Boosting
The physical changes that occur during pregnancy and after childbirth can impact a woman's self-esteem. Our classes focus on helping you tone your muscles and rebuild your physical strength, which, in turn, can boost self-esteem and your overall mental well-being.
5. Mum Supporting
Joining a Strength In Mumbers class gives you the opportunity to connect with other new Mums who are going through similar experiences. Social support is crucial for maintaining good mental health and can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness. Don’t forget, we’re all in this together!
6. Energy Boosting
The physical demands of motherhood require a great deal of energy! Postnatal exercise can help boost those energy levels, helping you to keep up with the demands of life.
7. Child Bonding
Bringing your baby along to our classes is an excellent way to bond. It’s also a chance for your child(ren) to meet other little ones and for you to watch their early friendships blossom.
8. Long-Term Benefits Developing a habit of regular exercise post-pregnancy sets a foundation for a healthy lifestyle, this can lead to lasting mental health benefits.
Returning to (or beginning) exercise after you’ve had a baby should always be done gradually. Every postnatal journey is unique, and that’s why we ensure every workout is adapted to suit individual needs and abilities.
Postnatal exercise is not just about shedding post-pregnancy weight, in fact we don’t focus on that at all. For us it’s an invaluable tool for promoting mental well-being during a time of profound change, setting the stage for a healthier and happier you.