Last Month of Pregnancy
As the countdown to welcoming a baby into the world gets closer, the last month of pregnancy often becomes a roller coaster of emotions and preparations. For many expectant mothers, myself included, this period is not just about physical readiness but also about finding moments of peace and tranquility in the chaos of daily life.
Reflecting on my past pregnancies with Leo and Lily, I recall stubbornly resisting the well-meaning advice to "slow down" and "take it easy." Convinced of my own strength and determination, I pushed myself to prove that pregnancy wouldn't change who I was. However, this time around, with a newfound perspective, I've come to realize the importance of embracing each moment and prioritizing my own well-being.
A Shift in Priorities
My typical days used to be filled with classes, meetings, and physical activities, from 5am to 7pm, leaving little room for relaxation or reflection. But as I entered the final month of pregnancy, I knew I needed to make a change. My mind craved freedom, and my body asked for rest. So, I made the decision to recalibrate my routine and prioritize self-care above all else.
After months of searching, I finally found three instructors who could lead half of my weekly online routine until labor. With this support in place, I also made the bold choice to step back from my in-person classes at CU Boulder and the judo gym. Even if not easy at all, beacuse as you know, I deeply care about supporting my students every steps in their fitness journey, It was a decision fueled by a desire to reclaim my mental and physical well-being in the precious weeks leading up to childbirth. On top of that, I asked to some friends and Ale to take care of the kids’ pick ups and that gave me such a great relief too.
A Day of Balance and Nurturing
For the last three weeks of my pregnancy, my days have taken on a different rhythm—a rhythm centered around self-nurture and serenity. A typical day might begin with a 6 am class on Zoom, followed by a postpartum session at 9 am. Then, I indulge in another virtual class at 10 am before heading to crossfit at noon ending my work day with a 1-1 session with a client not later than 3pm.
Since, I stopped to teach the afternoon/evening classes, I was able to carve out time with the kids in our backyard, immersing ourselves in the simple joys of reading a book or going to the swimming pool to survive the terrible heat. As evening approaches, I shift my focus to nurturing my body and mind. Making dinner becomes a mindful ritual, instead of having to rusch into meal plan on Sundays and by 8 pm, I'm ready to retire for the night, knowing that I've dedicated four hours to essential physical work, one hour to nurturing my body, and two hours to nurturing my mind and spending quality time with my children.
Finding Balance and Fulfillment
In this last month of pregnancy, I've discovered the power of embracing change and prioritizing self-care. By slowing down and taking each day as it comes, I've found a sense of peace and serenity that avoided me in the past. And as I prepared to embark on the journey of childbirth and motherhood once again, I did so with a newfound appreciation for the importance of balance, mindfulness, and self-compassion.
