Becoming a mother is a selfless act.

You are somewhat prepared for the lifestyle changes that come with parenthood. Thanks to babywearing, grandparents, friends, and babysitters, you can still have a social life – maybe even a break once in a while. But what are you not prepared for?

Your ‘New’ Body. That's what.

You may think you are prepared, but it will still surprise you. After the newness fades and you are left with a body that feels foreign, you will need a mental pep talk.

How to Love Your Postpartum Body

Don’t let insecurities keep you from stripping naked and feeling confident.

• Know what is normal: It took 9 months to stretch and grow a baby. Your body will go through stages as it heals and adapts to life as a mother. You will still look pregnant following birth. For some women, this phase lasts longer than others (especially c-section recovery moms). This is normal. You will continue to change over time.
• Look at yourself naked: REALLY look at yourself. Stand in front of the mirror naked. Yes, you will want to start criticizing yourself; it’s been ingrained in you to do so – but try not to. Instead, see the beauty. Your body is incredible; it just grew a human being who will never see the flaws that you see.
• Have sex: You are a GODDESS!! You birthed a baby, let that confidence roll into the bed with you… Nothing makes you feel good in your skin like good sex.
• Skip the scale: The scale is a crappy item that messes with your mind and can sabotage your hard work! Instead of stepping on it every day, choose one day a week and read the results with a grain of salt. (Engorged breasts are not your friend on a scale!) Or just pack the damn thing away until you are ready for it again.
• Wear clothes that flatter you: Wearing unflattering clothes will make you hate your body – period. There is no way around that. If you have the means, splurge on a few pieces that flatter your body right now. If you don't, live in leggings and flattering tunics for awhile.
• Exercise: Besides being good for your health, exercise releases endorphins that make you happy. Get sweaty, join a gym, follow a DVD, use a pinterest workout plan, or just lace up your shoes and hit the pavement each day.
• Drink water: Drink LOTS of water. You will have brighter, firmer skin (not to mention all the other water-consumption benefits)!
• Look at your food choices: Eat whole, real foods and skip the processed crap that comes in a box. Make freezer meals so you know you have healthy dinners ready. Cut out dairy and gluten as they are inflammatory foods and could be a reason you aren't losing weight.
• Set Goals: By actively working toward attainable goals, you will be able to see your body as transitional and not your new normal.