Being an Active Parent

I do a lot of work with moms, both before and after the baby comes...it's a cause very close to my own heart as a mom of two! I'm a speaker for PEPS (Programs for Early Parenting Support) groups, have done walking groups and bootcamps for moms, and have continuing education in the subject. I'd like to share a couple tips I've given to primary caregivers about staying healthy while raising children and recovering from pregnancy and birth!

1. Your definition of a "workout" might need to change. If you're counting on getting into the gym 3-4 times a week, that's an hour and a half out of your day - most days, that's a lot to ask! It doesn't mean that you can't aim for that, but if you count on it, you might end up not having that time on a regular basis and feeling like a slug. Try to reorient your thinking about exercise...imagine it as something you can do anywhere in less than 5-10 minutes. Baby napping? Awesome - do a quick set of core exercises and stretching BEFORE doing the dishes or writing emails. In line at the grocery store? Calf raises are unobtrusive and will fight against chronic foot cramps. Taking a break from work to pump milk for the kiddo? Take a few minutes before and after to loosen up your neck and shoulders. And you can jog with that stroller no matter where you are - people do it all the time! :)

2. Start slow. It doesn't matter if you're two weeks or two years postpartum...if you haven't done any purposeful movement during that time, you need to begin at the beginning. Throwing yourself back on the treadmill or into an ab class will likely be too much for your changed body to handle - you risk injury and might end up using muscle groups other than the ones that will best support you!

3. Set up active dates with other parents. Walk Greenlake instead of having coffee, or do lunges around the playground while your toddler goes down the slide. Plan a short hike! Go for a swim during your preschooler's swim class - no need to just sit and watch!

4. Think about the lessons you teach your child by being an active person. Mommy takes care of her body because it's important, as a human being, to be strong and healthy. Isn't that a lesson we all want our children to internalize? This one really hit home for me with the birth of my second child, a girl. I realized it was vitally important to me that she see me thinking about my own needs and desires, not always putting them behind everyone else's and sometimes not acknowledging them at all. Making the time for yourself helps your children learn how to be more balanced and in tune with themselves.

I'm passionate about this subject not only because it's been a personal struggle for me, but because I know so many people (especially moms) who struggle with it. It's worth thinking about! :)