As a mom who enjoys staying active with my little one by my side—including yoga sessions—I’ve come to realize that those flawless social media snapshots are often a bit of a fantasy. From a baby letting out a loud raspberry on my belly during Savasana to the unfortunate incident of spit-up landing directly in my mouth while I hold her above me, my attempts at achieving zen can be delightfully derailed. But that’s perfectly okay. Incorporating my baby into my fitness routine—or any aspect of my life—shouldn’t be about crafting an ideal image. Parenting, after all, is a blend of messy moments and joyful chaos. (Do I see a half-full cup, or am I simply running low on caffeine at my favorite cafe?)
I’ve committed to allowing my baby to be part of most of my life—good days and bad. It might not always make for Instagram-worthy content, but it’s genuine living. Here are some of my go-to mommy-and-me activities:
Toilet Time
When I first saw that viral photo of a mom nursing while on the toilet, I honestly didn’t grasp why it sparked so much debate. I’ve nursed my baby while using the restroom once or twice, but I’ve certainly taken her into public stalls far more times than I can count. What else am I supposed to do when nature calls? Speaking of mommy-and-me toilet time, I recently had to squat in the woods to pee while wearing her. No regrets here!
Nursing on the Go
During a recent hike, my baby was strapped to my chest and started to fuss because she was hungry. I didn’t want to stop, so I discreetly pulled out a boob. Sure, I felt a bit guilty for my sweaty state, but it sort of worked for a short while. I briefly considered how I’d explain this to anyone I might encounter on the trail, but honestly, I didn’t care enough to come up with a plan. Free the nipple, I say!
Grown-Up Socializing
Most of my friends are still child-free, and I usually don’t bother with a babysitter unless absolutely necessary. So, I engage in plenty of mommy-and-me socializing with a grown-up twist. Whether it’s grabbing coffee, enjoying drinks at a bar, or catching live music, my baby is right there with me, charming everyone she meets—from baristas to musicians. Sure, she occasionally swipes drinks off the table, but it’s all part of our adventure together.
Appointments
Sometimes, having a babysitter would make life easier, but it doesn’t always pan out that way. Not too long ago, I had to get X-rays done, and with no one to watch the baby, I had to bring her along. Yes, it sounds absurd—babies aren’t permitted in X-ray rooms. I parked her stroller in the adjacent area while the techs worked, and you know what? She was surprisingly fine with it. When she gets restless, we simply adapt. I may not capture these moments on Instagram, but I won’t pretend she doesn’t disrupt my yoga poses.
Life as a mom is a mix of unpredictable moments, but I love integrating my little one into my daily activities. If you’re looking for more creative ideas, check out this delightful post on DIY chocolate delights for Valentine’s Day. And if you’re exploring options for home insemination, check out sites like Make a Mom for expert guidance. For further information on treating infertility, ACOG’s site offers excellent resources: ACOG.
In summary, embracing the messy and real aspects of motherhood is what makes this journey worthwhile. Whether it’s toilet time or nursing on the go, every moment spent with my baby adds richness to our lives.