Wearing Kira Grace Warrior T-Back Yoga Tank, lululemon leggings (old), Woodzee sunglasses, Skechers sneakers
Wearing Kira Grace Warrior T-Back Yoga Bra (Red), lululemon shorts (old), Woodzee sunglasses, Skechers sneakers
During pregnancy (and life), I have found I am a much happier person when I am eating healthy and being active. Even if it’s just an attempt to exercise; like taking long walks around the neighborhood or speed walking on a treadmill, its the effort that counts. How much better do you feel by doing something active during the week?
By my lack of motivation and energy to exercise during the first trimester, I was feeling bigger by the day and self conscious about how I looked. Was I physically getting any bigger? Probably not (other than the bloat) but mentally, I was struggling. Looking back, I realize that my mind was probably playing tricks on me. One day I would look in the mirror and feel ginormous and unattractive and then the next I would feel confident. What’s the reason for the sudden change? A healthy lifestyle equals a healthy mind. Once I started to exercise again, (thank you second trimester) I felt amazing inside and out.
So, what are some benefits for staying active during pregnancy?
- Exercise will boost your energy
- You will have a better nights sleep
- Building and stretching your muscles will help reduce pregnancy discomfort
- Prepare yourself for childbirth and post-childbirth
- Reduce stress
Of course you will always get the people with too many opinions telling you how active or non-active you should be during your pregnancy. I don’t know about you but when I see a pregnant woman in the gym, internally I think, “you go girl!” Others may think she’s wrong. You must always remember, what has worked for one person may not always work for the other. The best thing you can do for yourself is listen to your body. If it feels right for you, then do it! It’s as simple as that. For me, it feels great to lift weights, go for runs, and even continue to hike at 16 weeks pregnant. Just do you! Always.
I will be sharing some of my pregnancy workouts on the blog. Stay tuned!
Photos by aMaes Photography (@aMaes_photography)
Be Kind,
Lola