The Real Story of Postpartum Depression
/The Real Story of Postpartum Depression
If you are a new mama, CONGRATS! Get ready for the ride of your life. Filled with laughs, tears, and so much love! I’m Madison, Oklahoma native and holistic mama of 2 sweet littles: Harper (4) and Jackson (2). I know the feelings of pure happiness when you welcome that sweet bundle of joy into the world and all of your baby dreams are coming true. I know the feelings of being smitten with that little angel and you can’t imagine loving anything more. But, I also know the overwhelming feelings of postpartum depression. This is my story.
March 11, 2015. Our sweet Harper was born. She filled such an incredible place in our hearts and we adored her sweet little face. I was a new mama. Unsure of what to expect, but eager to start this new life as a family of 3. I knew I would get little to no sleep, change lots of diapers, and basically be a milk making machine {or so I thought, but that’s for another day}. What I didn’t expect, was the overwhelming sadness I began to experience about a month into motherhood.
For a few weeks I thought, “okay, I guess this is just part of it.” However, as days passed by, my feelings of sadness increased. The feelings of “loneliness” overcame me. I began to think I wasn’t made for this “mom” thing and I didn’t think I could do it. Finally, after lots of “googling” {which is a new moms BFF}, I came to realize, these feelings I was experiencing were due to postpartum depression. Now here’s the deal, I’m a pretty “happy go lucky” kind of gal. I love to smile, have fun, give off all the good vibes and positivity – so this hit me like a freight train! Did I mention I’m also a little stubborn?? Postpartum depression? No way! Not me. After speaking with my doctor, he too explained that postpartum depression was very normal and that it can be treated with medicine. Now friends, if you’d like to scroll back on up and see my bio, “holistic mama of 2”, I’m not really into the whole “throw some medicine in your body and call it a day” kind of approach. But if that’s your thing, you do you boo! I’m all about mamas supporting mamas and I 100% want you to do what’s right for your body. However, if you are looking for an alternative {or maybe you want to save some $$$}, here is what I did to naturally support my body and kick postpartum depression to the curb!
1. Exercise! Now I’m not saying you have to go out and train for a half marathon {running isn’t my jam}. BUT, go for a walk! Get moving! Do Yoga, Pilates, Barre – whatever makes your heart sing and brings you joy! Grab your BFF or go alone for some much needed YOU time. Buy yourself a cute new pair of leggings and do it!!! You will be surprised how much this will help you feel back to normal!
2. Grab some oils for emotional support! Okay okay, I know what you’re thinking. Oils!? Really?? Girl, let me just tell you! I was an essential oils skeptic. Like the biggest skeptic on the planet! But, when I slapped that stress away oil on my wrist and slathered Frankincense on me and baby girl, I burst out in tears. I’m not saying I was full on bawling, but cross my heart, tears were streaming down my face as I let my emotions release from my body. I knew in that moment that everything was going to be okay. Now remember, not all essential oils are created the same! I know it’s tempting, but for the love of all things, don’t grab essential oils from your nearest Target/Walmart/TJ Maxx. They are filled will all kinds of chemicals, extenders, and fake fragrances. I highly recommend Young Living due to the Seed to Seal practices and standards. I can trust 100% that what’s going on me and my babies is pure and safe – which makes this mama heart very happy! If you want to know more about that, head on over to @mh_essentials_ for tips and trick on how to support your body with essential oils.
3. Breathe! The power of breath!! Did you know, when you breathe from your shoulders, you’re actually breathing from a place of stress, anxiety, and depression?? Guilty!! This was me 99.9% of the time. I know mom life is so dang busy y’all but there is so much power in taking 3 big deep breaths every single day. So let’s work on this. Stop what you’re doing! I’m going to grab a bottle of Frankincense essential oil right now because it’s my jam, drop some in my hand, and take 3 deep breathes. Breathe with me from deep in your gut. Inhale... Exhale. Inhale… Exhale. Inhale… Exhale. Better??? Don’t forget to take deep breaths during the day, beautiful friend. Go ahead and look in the mirror right now too and tell yourself “I love you [insert your name]!” I also love practicing a little selflove. Okay moving on.
4. Community! Last but not least, find a community! Now I know social media has its pros and cons, but friends… social media can be so, so beautiful. It’s a place we, as women, from all over the world, can come together and find our TRIBE! WE can support other people. We can be vulnerable and authentic to our stories. We can tell those stories, in hopes that it will bring more people to understand we have their back! If you need a community, I would love to welcome you with open arms to follow me @madihenry1! I love connecting with women and love helping all the mamas know they are NOT alone. I am here for YOU dear friend.
I hope this encourages and blesses you. It’s been on my heart to share more of my personal story and I am so thankful to have this opportunity to share my story with y’all.
All the love mommas!
xo
- Madison Henry (Guest Blogger)
{Please note, this post is not intended to treat or cure postpartum depression. If needed, please see your doctor or doula for additional recommendations}.
