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| Lisa LeBaron Photography and Film |
40 days. How are we already here? Deep into the 4th trimester. In the thick of it - this postpartum phase. I can look back on these last 40 days and say with confidence that I have rested well. I have been cared for WELL. And I feel well. I have not cooked or cleaned. I have not exercised or started running yet. I have hardly lifted a finger. Outings are kept fairly simple. My soul and my body - my entire being - feels so nourished and so supported. I have been truly nurtured as I enter into this new phase of motherhood.
I’ve never been able to enjoy this part as much as I have this time. All of the planning and tough mental work that went into preparing for this part, along with the hard work and support of all of those around me, has resulted in the dreamiest postpartum phase I have ever known. And the relationships with those around me reflect that. The closeness that I feel to this baby, the bond and connection that I have with her is like nothing I have experienced with a newborn before. I cry all the time, because I’m overwhelmed with just how much I’m loving this stage - so much more than I ever thought possible.
This 40 day point is certainly not any sort of finish line. But it is without a doubt a significant point. A major stepping stone in this journey. A mile marker in this marathon. I will continue to rest. Continue to prioritize the 5 universal postpartum needs. But I’m excited to ease back into a few different things here and there. Slowly. To add a few more chores to my plate. To start running a bit. And I feel ready. Because this postpartum phase has prepared me well and brought me to this place of readiness.
