Why the Era of ‘Bouncing Back’ Sets Unrealistic Expectations for Our Postpartum Bodies

We live in a time where there’s enormous pressure to bounce back after having a baby. The idea that we should quickly return to our pre-pregnancy bodies—physically, emotionally, and mentally—creates unrealistic and often harmful expectations.

But here’s the truth:
Your body has just gone through one of the most profound transformations a human can experience. You have literally grown an entire human, nourished them from your own body, and brought them into the world. Whether that journey included sickness, exhaustion, back pain, swelling, sleepless nights, or emotional upheaval—you have walked through it like a warrior.

The idea that you should erase all signs of that in a matter of weeks or months is not only unrealistic—it’s unfair.

Postpartum is not about bouncing back. It’s about moving forward, gently and intentionally. Loving your body where it’s at, honouring the strength it took to get here, and creating space for healing. It takes time. It takes patience. It takes work—often while caring for a newborn and juggling all the other pieces of life.

Depending on your pregnancy and birth story, your timeline for healing will be uniquely yours. What your body needs to recover—whether it’s specific functional exercises, tailored nutrition to replenish and rebuild, or emotional support—will differ from someone else’s. This is where I can help. Together, we can create a plan that works for your recovery, your life, and your goals. If you’re ready to start, I invite you to book a consultation.

And for now, I invite you to do something simple but powerful:

Look in the mirror. Look at your body—the same body that grew and birthed life. Be in awe of what it has done. Say thank you. Whisper, or even say aloud: "You are a warrior, and I love you."

You may not believe it every day. But the more you practice this kindness, the more your body will feel safe to heal, to strengthen, and to thrive again.