1. Improved Mood: Research shows that exercise increases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones. This can help you find joy in everyday life and fight off depression or anxiety.
2. Relieved Stress: Exercise can also help ease discomfort you may experience due to the hormonal changes related to childbirth. Studies have found that exercise can reduce cortisol and other hormones linked to chronic stress.
3. Weight Management: Weight loss and weight management news are common goals of postpartum care. When done correctly, exercise can help you get back to your pre-pregnancy weight range.
4. Improved Strength: After labor and delivery, you may feel weak. Exercise can strengthen your abdominal, back, and core muscles, which are needed for good posture and for providing stability while breastfeeding, holding your baby, and other activities.
5. Enhanced Sleep: During the postpartum period, sleep is precious. Exercise can help you fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. Additionally, it helps you relax your mind and body so that you can truly rest.
Even if you're completely intimidated by the thought of starting a fitness routine after childbirth, know that many women have done it—and they felt better for it! And don't worry if you can't already run marathons or lift heavy weights; even a moderate program of walking or light strengthening exercises can give you the postpartum boost you need for a healthy and happy recovery.
Article Created by A.I.