Let me be clear: If you “snapped back” three weeks after pushing out a whole human, you are NOT my target audience right now. 😂
I’m 10 months postpartum, and listen… I’m still waiting for that magical snap to happen. And no, it’s not just about a number on a scale — it’s about feeling good in my body again. It’s about putting on clothes that don’t feel like strangers. It’s about walking past a mirror and not wondering, “Who is that?”
Because truthfully? Some days I wake up and think, Where is she? Like, the size 8 version of DeZell I used to know. But, then I remember: I’m not “her” anymore — I’m stronger. I’m a mom. I’m growing. And that’s why this post exists. Not to tell you there’s a magic pill or workout or waist trainer that’ll erase the journey — but to tell you what’s actually helping me start feeling like myself again. No fluff, Instagram filters, and no “I lost 30 pounds in 30 days” scams. Just real-mom energy on a real-mom budget and schedule.
✨ The Postpartum Pressure Is Loud
Let’s talk about the real for a minute:
Social media will have you thinking every mom is out here breastfeeding, meal-prepping, working full time, and posting “Get Ready With Me” reels — all while rocking a flat tummy and 26” bundles. Meanwhile, you’re over here with a messy bun, leaky boobs, and wondering when the last time you showered in peace. Listen, if that’s you? You are not alone. I had to stop comparing my journey to these curated highlight reels. Because while someone might look “snatched” three weeks postpartum, I don’t know what’s going on behind that post. And honestly, comparison will rob you of every ounce of grace you’re trying to give yourself.
✅ So What Is Working for Me Right Now?
Here’s what’s been helping me feel more in control of my body and mind — slowly but surely.
1. Moving My Body — Even Just 30 Minutes
I’m not doing two-a-days or hitting the gym at 6 a.m. (I’m barely making it to Trader Joe’s by 3 p.m. 😩), but I do try to move daily.
• Walking around the block with my baby in the stroller.
• 15-minute YouTube stretch videos (I love GrowWithJo and Kira Pro).
• Turning on music and having a dance party in the living room.
It’s not about burning calories. It’s about reconnecting to my body. Getting my blood flowing makes me feel more like me — not just a machine running on caffeine and vibes.
2. Water. And Then Some More Water.
When I’m hydrated, my skin glows. My digestion improves. My cravings go down. I feel less bloated.
I started carrying a cute 40oz water bottle around the house and keeping one in the car. It sounds small, but it changed the game. And if you’re breastfeeding like me, hydration is everything.
Pro tip: Add some lime or cucumber slices to make it feel fancy without doing the most.
3. Eating Foods That Fuel Me (Not Just Fill Me)
I’m not on a diet. I’m not counting macros. But, I am being more mindful.
• Adding more veggies to my meals.
• Swapping snacks for things that actually make me feel good (trail mix, fruit, Greek yogurt).
• Limiting the drive-thru runs to emergencies only.
And I’m not perfect — some days it’s Freddy’s those clusters tho. Yes, please! But, I’ve noticed that when I fuel my body, my energy (and mood) levels stay more stable throughout the day.
4. The Belly Wrap? BABY. Life-Changing.
I was skeptical, but let me tell you: belly wrapping helped me feel more supported in my core, especially when I started walking again.
It helped with posture, back pain, and gave me that little mental edge that reminded me, “Yes, I’m still snatched under here.”
I used the Belly bandit. But if you’ve had a C-section or diastasis recti, always check with your doctor before using one.
5. Positive Self-Talk (Even When It’s Hard)
I started doing one thing every morning: complimenting myself out loud.
• “You are doing your best.”
• “You carried life. You are strong.”
• “You are allowed to look and feel good — for YOU.”
Because we speak life into everyone else — our babies, our friends, our coworkers — and then look in the mirror and drag ourselves?
Not anymore. I deserve hype, too.
📸 Realistic “Glow-Up” Looks Like This:
• Jeans that fit and don’t dig into your skin.
• A fresh twist-out or a slick bun.
• Lip gloss, earrings, and a smile that says “I made it through another day.”
• Accepting that progress looks different for every body.
This isn’t a weight loss journey. This is a self-love evolution. The “bounce back” might look more like a slow walk — and that’s okay.
🛍️ A Few Things That Helped Me:
• Postpartum belly band – for core support + posture.
• GrowWithJo 30-min beginner workouts – on YouTube.
• Stanley 40oz tumbler dupe – makes drinking water feel like self-care.
• High-waisted leggings from Skims – holds everything in, feels cute.
• Lip gloss + brow gel combo – quick “put together” trick.
💌 Final Thoughts
To every mama who doesn’t recognize her body right now — I see you. You are not alone. And you are not “behind.”
Reminder that you can still be that girl, even with stretch marks, loose skin, and a whole human clinging to your leg while you try to pee in peace.
Be gentle with yourself. Celebrate the small wins. Take five minutes for you. And if nothing else, remember: Your bounce back doesn’t have to be fast — it just has to be yours.
📲 Share This With Another Mama Who Needs to Hear It
💖 Leave a comment: How are you showing up for yourself postpartum?