We hold our selves to such high standards, thanks to the media splashing pictures of bikini-clad, svelte supermodels 4 week postpartum. It doesn’t work like that…If you are newly pregnant, I hate to be the bearer of this news. Your post baby body is likely to take a bit of work to reshape. It’s ok. There are two things you need: One is a profound LOVE AND RESPECT for your body, it has grown and given birth to a tiny human being! The other is PILATES. If you do both, I promise you will be amazed at the results.
Pilates is a fantastic way to keep up with the rapid changes in the pregnant body and prepare for birth. Postural changes, ligament laxity (due to hormonal changes), muscle tightness, a general sense that your derriere will never be the same…
Pilates addresses these changes by helping the client to maintain core strength, flexibility, and alignment during this dynamic time. All exercises are modified to support proper body mechanics and are approved by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
In addition, Pilates aids in the recovery postpartum by training muscles to support you in proper postural alignment, re-introducing the use of the pelvic floor and intrinsic abdominal musculature, and toning those places that shifted around during pregnancy. Every woman varies in her experience of pregnancy and childbirth. The Pilates method can provide the specific attention needed. Take some well deserved “me time” to rejuvenate your body. It will make you a a happier person, and therefore a better mother and partner, when you feel good in your body.
To make 2014 your year to reclaim your body and mind, the remedy is simple:
Love Yourself + Do Pilates = look and feel like a supermodel.
Shanta De Lacrose, Ph.D is an Instructor at Fit First Pilates of Marin, mother of two home birthed babies and has a passion for empowering women in all stages of life, especially motherhood.
Fit First Pilates 