Body image struggles

I feel like I’m just starting to accept my new body. Not like it, but accept it. I have lost some weight, but I have a lot of loose skin on my belly and deep, dark stretch marks from belly button to mid-thigh. Since I can’t do much to change it, I’m just trying to accept it! It’s still a work in progress but you’re not alone. I also struggle with not having the time/money for the things I used to do to help me feel pretty - doing my makeup, curling my hair, getting my hair done, even getting a haircut. I try to remember looking at my mom when I was a kid. Did I think she was fat or had too much skin or spooky stretch marks? Nope. She was soft and warm to cuddle with. I didn’t even take notice of her body really until I was much older and diet culture was really doin its thing to both of us.

I’m fat too. Gained 40 pounds AFTER giving birth. Breastfeeding too. And my belly still looks like I’m pregnant. Iva hardly posted any photos of myself on social media since the baby. Just photos of her. I’m just trying to give myself grace. I crave a lot more unhealthy foods now and being at home so much makes me succumb to the cravings. We brought life to the world. We’re allowed to change. I do hope that one day I can fit some of my old clothes though. I have stuff I’ve never even worn. My breasts went from a B cup to DD and probably even bigger since I bought new bras. But it’s still worth it. I love being a mother. Hang in there and don’t beat yourself up. You’re doing amazing and you’re beautiful.

Agree w/ Megan. I’m also learning to accept it although I don’t like it. But also continuing to work on it. I’m not as disciplined w/ working out so I can’t be upset at my progress. I was 134 before pregnancy and went up to 189. After pregnancy I went down to 163 but I took a couple weeks to recover and I didn’t start working out until about 6 months later inconsistently so I went back up to 180. Im now 166. I would just say to try including a small workout into your schedule each day, doesn’t have to be a lot. Walking also helps a lot if you don’t like exercise. I’ve gotten a walking pad which has helped me lose 10 pounds in about 2 weeks and that’s without walking everyday. Consistency is key and I’m working on that. Besides that you just have to remind yourself that you’re a mama and you did a beautiful thing with your body. We either have to learn to live with this new body or work hard to get back to a body we like. Ive also gotten new clothes I look and feel more comfy in.

Also for the meantime. Get a faja or some shape wear and that might make you feel a bit more confident and looking good when you’re dressed.