Revisiting Self-Love: A Thanksgiving Reflection on Nurturing Ourselves for Parenthood - Episode 47

What's Up Wednesday!

On today’s episode, we are revisiting our very first episode of For the Love of Parenting, where we introduced the concepts of self-love and self-care in the journey toward parenthood. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we’re reflecting on these themes in the context of gratitude—not just for family, friends, and all we cherish, but also for ourselves.

As we discussed in episode one, self-love is the foundation for nurturing our mental, emotional, and physical well-being, setting us up to be the best parents we can be. Just as Thanksgiving encourages us to appreciate the people around us, self-love invites us to turn that gratitude inward, embracing our own resilience, strengths, and growth as individuals and parents.

Today, we will revisit these essential self-love practices, connecting them with the season of gratitude and discussing practical ways to prioritize self-care during the holiday rush. Join us as we reflect on how fostering self-compassion enriches not only our own lives but also the lives of those we love.

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B. Visit Other Episodes In The Self-Love/Self-Care Series
Episode 2 - Embracing Self-Care in Motherhood
Episode 4 - Reflection Exercise - End of Self-love/Self-care Series

Contact:
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Remember, as parents, do your best—there are no perfect parents, but countless ways to be loving and supportive. Signing off from the For Love of Parenting podcast. Thanks for listening. Until next time.

Transcript

Title: Revisiting Self-Love: A Thanksgiving Reflection on Nurturing Ourselves for Parenthood - Episode 47

Introduction Summary

Pregnancy is a time of incredible joy and anticipation, but it can also bring forth countless emotions and physical changes. It's a period where prioritizing self-care and self-love isn't just important; it's essential for the well-being of both the expecting parent and the growing baby.

In today’s episode, we'll explore the intertwining concepts of self-love/self-care and uncover the importance of building a strong foundation of these concepts before baby, exploring how our mental, emotional, and physical well-being play vital roles in the journey towards parenthood. So, let’s get started.

Podcast

Well hello to the inaugural podcast episode of "For the Love of Parenting." I'm absolutely thrilled and grateful that you've chosen to join me on this journey. This podcast is a dream realized, and I can't wait to share this exciting venture with you all.

Before we dive into today's topic, let me introduce myself. With over 15 years in the maternal-child health industry, I bring a wealth of experience as a certified childbirth educator and an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). My background also includes a Master's in Elementary Education, coupled with hands-on teaching experience and a certification in early childhood education.

While some of you may recognize me for my expertise in childbirth education and lactation, this podcast aims to explore the multifaceted aspects of parenthood. When I say "parenthood," I encompass not just the arrival of the baby but also the pre-baby journey.

Now, why did I decide to venture into hosting an "all things parenthood" podcast? The simple answer: I love being a parent. My company, Pregnancy Concepts, was born out of the love I have for raising my own children. It's based on the belief that every parent deserves support, guidance, and a community that comprehends the intricacies of parenthood.

This podcast isn't solely about mastering childbirth education or achieving breastfeeding success. It's about empowering parents with knowledge, confidence, and a profound understanding of their unique parenting journey. As I always say, "I am an educator through and through."

Before we kick off today's episode, if you're interested in accessing the supplementary podcast resources - activities, quizzes, books, and exercises (because, well, the educator in me insists!), head over to Pregnancy Concepts at www.pregnancyconcepts.com. There, you'll find a wealth of resources tailored to enhance your experience.

Now that you've learned a bit about me, let's dive into our first episode. I've planned the next four episodes as a comprehensive 4-part series centered around self-love and self-care, specifically tailored for those moms planning, considering, sexually active, or currently pregnant. However, my primary focus will be on the preconception and pre-baby phases.

I feel preconception health planning often gets overlooked, hence the spotlight in this series. Nonetheless, all the information, activities, and exercises shared will be relevant and beneficial, regardless of your pregnancy phase. Throughout this series, I encourage my For the love of parenting parents to engage with me on social media. Share how you're practicing self-love and self-care, why you chose a particular exercise or activity, and your feelings about it – a brief, personal story.

So, buckle up, For the love of parenting parents! We're embarking on an enlightening journey of self-discovery and nurturing care. Let's embrace this beautiful phase together.

According to the CDC, Preconception Health encompasses the well-being of individuals during their reproductive years or the period when they are capable of having a child. It revolves around taking proactive steps now to safeguard the health of a potential future baby.

The principles of preconception health extend beyond those planning to conceive, offering benefits to all individuals. It emphasizes maintaining overall health throughout one's life span. It's not solely about planning for pregnancy; it's about nurturing wellness, sustaining good health, and fostering contentment in life. Preconception health involves envisioning the future and undertaking measures to attain that vision.

Crucially, preconception health is not exclusive to women planning pregnancies. It emphasizes taking charge and embracing healthy habits. It's about women living well, prioritizing health, and feeling positive about life. Moreover, it's equally imperative for men, encouraging them to attain and maintain optimal health, support their partner's well-being, and safeguard their children's future. Investing in one's health presently ensures a brighter and healthier future for oneself and the family in the years ahead.

Within the realm of Preconception Health lies the crucial components of self-love and self-care. Both are integral to preparing for parenthood, although they revolve around distinct aspects:

Preconception Self-Love: spotlights the emotional and psychological facets of parenthood preparation. It entails fostering a positive self-relationship, nurturing self-compassion, addressing emotional needs, and cultivating mental well-being before embarking on the journey of conceiving a child.

Conversely, Preconception Self-Care: centers on the physical and practical elements of readying for pregnancy. It involves adopting healthy lifestyle choices, managing medical considerations, ensuring adequate nutrition, addressing existing health conditions, and establishing a conducive environment for conception and subsequent pregnancy.

Understanding and embracing both Preconception Self-Love and Preconception Self-Care are pivotal steps in preparing holistically for the transformative journey of parenthood.

So, let’s explore the importance of self-love at little closer.

The concept of self-love mirrors the principles we often apply in our relationships with others. Extending the same acceptance, compassion, respect, and admiration that we offer to loved ones toward ourselves is crucial for personal well-being and growth.

Self-love involves:

1. Acceptance: Embracing all aspects of oneself, including imperfections and mistakes, without harsh judgment or criticism.

2. Compassion: Treating oneself with kindness and understanding, especially during challenging times or when facing difficulties.

3. Respect: Honoring one's beliefs, boundaries, and needs, acknowledging personal values and opinions.

4. Admiration: Celebrating personal achievements, progress, and strengths, regardless of their scale.

Applying these principles to oneself fosters a healthier relationship with the self, promoting mental and emotional well-being. Recognizing that one deserves the same care and consideration as given to others is a fundamental aspect of self-love.

By nurturing self-love, individuals cultivate resilience, develop a positive self-image, and establish a foundation for personal growth and fulfillment. It's an ongoing process of self-discovery, self-compassion, and self-acceptance that contributes significantly to overall happiness and contentment.

Motherhood is an incredible journey that brings immense joy but also comes with its fair share of challenges. The expectations and pressures, especially for first-time moms, can be overwhelming, leading to self-doubt and insecurity.

Self-love plays a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of motherhood. It serves as a vital tool in fostering confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being during this transformative phase of life. Here's how self-love can be beneficial for first-time moms:

1. Self-compassion: Being kind and understanding to oneself amid the inevitable learning curve of motherhood. Accepting that mistakes and uncertainties are part of the journey and treating oneself with gentleness and patience.

2. Self-worth and confidence: Recognizing and embracing one's inherent value and capabilities as a mother, acknowledging that perfection isn't necessary and that doing one's best is enough.

3. Self-care: Prioritizing personal well-being, knowing that taking care of oneself is essential for being a better caregiver. This includes getting enough rest, seeking support when needed, and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation.

4. Personal growth: Embracing the journey of learning and growing into the role of a mother, understanding that it's a process and allowing oneself the space to evolve and adapt.

5. Celebrating achievements: Acknowledging and celebrating even the smallest accomplishments in motherhood, appreciating the efforts and progress made along the way.

By practicing self-love, first-time moms can build a strong foundation for themselves, allowing them to navigate the challenges of parenthood with more resilience, confidence, and a healthier mindset. It's about nurturing oneself to be the best version of oneself while being compassionate and understanding through the highs and lows of this beautiful yet demanding journey.

True story: At the pediatrician's office, I was informed of their strict policy requiring a physical insurance card for admission, despite having provided all the necessary information over the phone. Panic and self-doubt began to creep in. I could have easily succumbed to feelings of guilt, labeling myself as a "bad" parent for this blunder.

However, in that moment, I reminded myself of the power of self-love and acceptance. I realized that acceptance doesn't mean excusing the mistake but rather acknowledging it without dwelling on what could have been.

Responding with self-love began with accepting the situation as it was. Instead of replaying the incident repeatedly in my mind, I redirected that energy towards self-compassion. I treated myself as I would treat a friend—offering reassurance and understanding, acknowledging that mistakes happen.

Additional ways that you can practice self-love.

1. Love Your Parenting Abilities: When parents love themselves, they develop a deeper sense of belief and trust in their capabilities. This self-assurance is crucial in parenting, as it fosters consistency and stability in interactions with children. Loving oneself enables parents to make decisions confidently and provide a nurturing environment for their children.

2. Positive Role Modeling: As self-love becomes an integral part of a parent's life, it naturally becomes a visible example for their children. By demonstrating self-compassion, self-care, and healthy self-esteem, parents set a positive model for their kids, teaching them the importance of valuing oneself.

3. Strength and Empowerment: Self-love cultivates a sense of inner strength and resilience. When parents practice self-love, they feel more empowered to face the challenges of daily life, including the demands of parenting. Accepting oneself and the current circumstances paves the way for personal growth and empowerment.

4. Coping with Mental Health Challenges: Self-love serves as a potent tool in managing day-to-day mental health challenges like anxiety, loneliness, depression, and stress. By embracing self-celebration, acknowledging and processing emotions, and offering oneself compassion during tough times, parents can effectively reduce their overall emotional distress.

By prioritizing self-love, parents can nurture a more positive and supportive relationship with themselves. This, in turn, creates a ripple effect that positively impacts their parenting, their relationships, and their overall well-being. Practicing self-love isn't just an individual benefit but a gift that radiates outward, influencing those around us in profound and positive ways.

As we conclude this episode, let's carry with us the profound impact of self-love in the journey of parenthood. Embracing self-love isn't just beneficial for ourselves, but it sets the stage for a nurturing and supportive environment for our children.

Remember, as parents, do your best—there are no perfect parents, but countless ways to be loving and supportive. By practicing self-love, we fortify ourselves to navigate the highs and lows of parenting with grace and resilience.

Signing off from the Love of Parenting podcast. In our next episode we will explore self-care. Until time. Take care.

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