According to a recent survey of over 7,000 new moms, 64% said their body confidence had plummeted since they had a baby. Also, another 61% stated they thought they would have reached their pre-pregnancy weight by their child’s first birthday, but they were still battling to shed the excess pounds.
While parenthood is the biggest blessing in parents’ lives, there is no denying that pregnancy can affect a woman’s shape and, in turn, their confidence. Yet, some clothes and tactics can make them feel proud of their body and appearance. Here are six ways new moms can boost their body confidence.
In This Article
1. Stop Neglecting Your Needs
As a new parent, your days are likely full of diaper changes, milk feeds, weaning, or endless laundry. As a result, you might feel you have minimal time to care for your hair, pamper your body, or paint your nails.
However, a little self-care can make you feel more confident in your appearance each day. Your child’s needs naturally come first, but that doesn’t mean you must neglect your own. When your little one enjoys a nap or goes to sleep for the night, wash and style your hair, pamper your body, and embrace a rejuvenating skincare routine.
2. Don’t Dress Like a New Mom
Let’s face it; parenting is one of the hardest jobs in the world. As you are often busy throughout the day, you might settle for a pair of sweats and an old t-shirt. While they are undoubtedly comfortable, the clothing will do little for your self-esteem.
If you no longer recognize yourself when looking in the mirror, it is time to stop dressing like a new mom and start wearing clothing that helps you ooze confidence. It doesn’t mean strapping on a pair of high heels, but you must wear clothing that will make you feel more like your old self. For example, the cutest midi dresses will flatter your shape, make you feel attractive and feminine, and the comfortable design is perfect for a busy lifestyle.
3. Start Working Out Each Day
Exercising might feel impossible after welcoming a baby into the world. Yet, you should look for ways to incorporate more physical activity into your day. A workout cannot only help you lose excess weight, but you will feel happier, healthier, and stronger each day.
- Even if you are stuck for babysitters, you can enjoy more exercise by:
- Going for a brisk walk in a park with your baby in the stroller
- Finding a gym with a babysitting room
Performing a home workout while your child naps – it doesn’t have to be too long, either!
The thought of exercise might feel overwhelming after a tiring day, but it could transform your mood, body, and mindset.
4. Treat Yourself to New Makeup
If you often look at the ground over holding your head up high, look for ways to grow your self-esteem. A new beauty regime could be the perfect answer, as it could transform your skin, highlight your best features, and make you feel more attractive.
Feel beautiful by treating yourself to new makeup and embrace tactics to boost your confidence. For example, apply a tinted moisturizer to appear more awake and refreshed, dab some rosy blush onto the apples of your cheeks, and wear mascara to elongate your eyelashes in a matter of minutes.
5. Wear a Beautiful Perfume
Believe it or not, a spritz of perfume can increase your confidence levels. As you will enjoy a pleasant fragrance, the appealing scent will make you feel instantly confident. A perfume’s chemicals will trigger your brain’s physiological response, which can cause a change in your norepinephrine or serotonin levels, which can lift your mood and alter your confidence. So, the next time you feel a little self-conscious, apply a beautifully scented perfume. It could work wonders for your self-esteem.
6. Appreciate Your Body and Its Abilities
Your post-partum body might look different from your shape before pregnancy, but you must stop being hard on yourself. Your body created your beautiful daughter or son, and every stretch mark or extra pound is part of this story. Appreciate your body and its abilities, and remember millions of women are living with similar scars and insecurities to you.
Finding your feet as a new parent might feel challenging, but you shouldn’t allow your new lifestyle to dent your self-esteem or style. Instead, look for ways to improve your body confidence each day, from wearing flattering clothing to setting time aside for self-care.
