Postpartum recovery can feel like climbing a mountain in flip-flops while holding a newborn. The pressure to “bounce back” is everywhere, and scrolling through social media doesn’t exactly help. Flat stomachs and glowing skin three weeks after birth? That wasn’t my reality, and I know I’m not alone.

Here’s the truth I wish someone had told me: postpartum recovery isn’t about bouncing back. It’s about moving forward – with small, manageable steps that help you feel more like you again.

Start with Compassion 

If you’re here, you’re already doing more than you realise. You care. You’re showing up for yourself, and that matters. But here’s something I learned the hard way – setting massive, unrealistic goals can leave you feeling defeated before you even start.

After my first C-section, I remember standing in front of the mirror, staring at the red scar and the soft pouch of skin above it, wondering if this was just how I’d look forever. I had no idea where to begin. So, I didn’t. I poked at it, sighed, and pulled on the baggiest jumper I could find.

Recovery felt impossible because I didn’t know how to break it down into small, achievable goals.

Break It Down: Small Goals Lead to Big Changes

Here’s the thing – postpartum recovery isn’t one big transformation. It’s made up of tiny, almost invisible moments that add up over time.

Instead of saying, “I need to get my body back,” try something softer and more realistic:

🎯 “I’ll take five minutes today to rest and breathe.”

🎯 “I’ll gently massage my scar before bed.”

🎯 “I’ll wear my care suit for a few hours and see how I feel.”

These small steps build momentum. One day you’ll look back and realise how far you’ve come – without burning out or feeling overwhelmed.

Set Goals That Feel Good (Not Like a Punishment)

Postpartum recovery isn’t about punishing your body back into shape. It’s about nurturing it. The goal isn’t to fit into your pre-pregnancy jeans overnight – it’s to feel strong, supported, and comfortable in your new skin.

Maybe your focus is rebuilding core strength slowly. Or maybe it’s scar care, because trust me – scar massage isn’t just about looks. It helps ease that uncomfortable tightness, and medical grade silicone strips? Absolute game-changers for flattening and softening scars.

Celebrate Every Win 

Every step you take counts – even if it feels small. Put on your care suit? Win. Managed to drink tea while it was still hot? Huge win.

I used to brush off little things like that, but celebrating them kept me going. Each small act of care reminded me that I was healing, even if I couldn’t see it immediately.

You’re Not in This Alone

There’s an entire community of women who get it. We’ve stood in front of the same mirrors, wondering if our bodies will ever feel like home again. If you feel stuck, reach out. Whether it’s to a friend, a postpartum support group, or just a DM to someone who’s been there – ask for help.

Postpartum recovery isn’t linear, but every step forward – no matter how small – is a win. You deserve to feel good in your body. So take that first step. And if all you manage today is to simply be – that’s more than enough.

You’ve got this. And if no one’s said it yet – I’m proud of you. 🖤

Want to read more? I’ve shared my own story of navigating C-section recovery, including the lessons I learned between my first and second births. Read about my C-section recovery journey here.

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