With so many celebrities having babies, it’s easy to become caught up in the comparison game. You might see the cover of a magazine and wonder why your baby weight isn’t melting off like Kim Kardashian’s. (Spoiler alert! Don’t stress it, mama. You look fab the way you are!)
A recent study by Female First magazine found that 80 percent of British women feel pressured to look good during pregnancy. About 75 percent said that seeing pregnant celebrities in the media made them feel insecure. If you can relate to these mommas, get moving to change your negative feelings into positive action! Here are three fun ways to get active and release some mood-boosting endorphins to help you look and feel better during and after pregnancy:
1. Act like a kid again— Get outside and enjoy the sunshine with your kids this summer, be it in your back yard or at the local playground. But don’t just sit on the sidelines! Take the initiative to get up and play with your kids. You’ll be surprised by how much of a workout it can be to chase them around. Try out the monkey bars for an arm workout or a swing set to get your legs pumping. Your kids will love the company, and you’ll love the calorie burning.
2. Dance your worries away— Get some friends together and pop in a Zumba DVD, or find a local class to attend. You’ll be having so much fun with the Latin-inspired dance workout you won’t even realize you’re exercising. Make a regular date of it with friends who will help you stay accountable while the camaraderie helps relieve tension.
3. Relax and strengthen with yoga— Target specific muscles during pregnancy and after delivery through a specialized prenatal or post-partum yoga class. Enjoy the calming benefits while restoring muscle tone and balance. Find a class near you or do a great video like this one:
How did you stay feeling good during and after your pregnancy?
Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
