Anook Athletics

The baby weight didn’t just “fall off me.”

I really wanted to be one of those girls who could eat whatever they wanted and the baby weight would just “disappear without even trying.”

But it wasn’t my reality.

When I was in the postpartum-nothing-fits phase I had this unrealistic expectation of myself to “bounce back” like Heidi Klum, getting back on the Victoria Secret runway 5 weeks after having her son in the back of my head.

And I’d wager that I’m not the only one who felt societal pressure to quickly snap back.

In truth, it took time. I didn’t rush my recovery after birth because I knew my body needed time to heal. I knew I needed to properly nourish my body in order to be able to produce milk for my baby.

It’s more than okay to not have a miraculous weight loss right after birthing a baby.

Remember, comparison is the thief of joy and everyone will move at their own pace. Take it from me, the worst thing you can do is compare yourself to the mom next to you, or ya know, Heidi Klum. 10/10 Do not recommend.

I wish I had gotten there sooner and had more appreciation for my body that had just given me the greatest gift of all.

Eventually, months and months down the road when I felt ready, it took cutting out the junk food from my diet and consistent exercise.

Nowadays my husband and I get up before our kids wake up every weekday morning (NOT back when we had a newborn) to move and strengthen our bodies. It’s no longer a “thing I have to do” but rather a “thing I get to do.” I use to think waking up before my children did to work out would make me more tired throughout the day, but it’s been the opposite effect and actually leaves me with more energy.

My activewear is easily the most precious and essential clothing I wear these days because let’s face it, motherhood is an extreme sport.

I am obsessed with these buttery soft Anook Athletics Poppy Leggings and my lightweight and breathable Devyn Tank. They are thoughtfully made for women pre-pregnancy, during pregnancy and in postpartum—they adapt through all the seasons of motherhood with you. They are ethically made in the US & Canada. I loved reading this quote on the meaning of the company’s name on their website, “Anook derives from the French name “Anouk,” meaning grace. As mothers, women are constantly juggling the weight of the world on their shoulders all while expected to have a smile on their face the entire time. At Anook Athletics, we believe mamas are the true definition of grace under fire.” Chills, right? Grace under fire, couldn’t have said it better! If you’d like to snag yourself some luxurious and quality activewear mama, use the code outercircle15 for 15% off your order!

Xo

Allie