The Bounce Back Myth

The bounce back myth and related messages, which I consider to be microaggressions, are absolutely everywhere these days. Social media influencers, friends, family, doctors, so-called postpartum fitness experts all echo the bounce back myth. The myth can be overt or sneakily covert; well-meaning but misplaced; outright jabs; or straight up body shaming.

Bounce Back. Snap Back. Get your pre-baby body back.

From who? Or what?

No matter the intention, these ideals are unrealistic, unhealthy, and much too often result in harm which can lead to a sense of failure, low self-esteem, disordered eating, and body dysmorphia. Not to mention that doing too much, too soon after baby arrives can put folks at real risk of postpartum hemorrhage, prolonged recovery time, uterine prolapse, and more.

And don’t even get me started on the toxic aspects of the fitness industry which add to this pile of flaming, shaming bullshit that pressures new mothers and birthing folks to get back to the gym to “get their pre-baby body back.” There. Is. No. Such. Thing.

Postpartum is forever- there is literally no going back. 

Can we find new ways to move and inhabit our evolving bodies that feel nourishing, and build strength, and promote wellbeing? YES. And it might, for those who genuinely thrive on it, involve the gym. But it really could just be as simple as walking with baby in the carrier or stroller, or doing some gentle stretches, or, my personal favorite, dancing in the kitchen. Preferably with friends, family, and a doula who are helping new parents out during this time.  

It can be hard to tune out the bounce back myth; even harder to fully, deeply, love and accept ourselves. May we all find a sense of peace with our ever-changing bodies, the miraculous vehicles that move us through this wild, fleeting, beautiful life.