When we think of stress, pregnancy is not usually what we associate with it. This is supposed to be a blissful, happy time as we watch our belly grow and imagine what it’s going to look like. But what about all the other “un-blissful” things that no one ever talks about but many of us suffer from? Although we all know what a pregnant woman looks like and we think we are prepared to gain 25+ lbs, thinking and watching yourself grow a basketball are two different things. There’s that little voice inside your head saying “how the hell am I going to get this weight off!!”

And never mind pregnancy, new motherhood is a whole new world.  There is so much information thrown at us from books, DVD’s and well intentioned relatives that we find ourselves completely over whelmed when we are sent home with a little person; and we’re supposed to take care of it!

Let the stress begin….Stress during pregnancy can cause high blood pressure, over eating and excessive weight gain. Stress during the postpartum period can cause depression, irrational behavior and anxiety disorders. Hormonal changes and sleep deprivation can make anyone feel like they are going crazy sometimes. No matter how prepared we think we are for motherhood, for some it seems beyond their control.

Exercise is by far one of the best stress relievers available and the best part is, you can do it for free! Regardless of the obvious benefits such as improves heart health and immune function, exercise has proven time and time again to reduce stress related illnesses such as anxiety disorder and postpartum depression. Hormone changes occur during exercise that affect how we feel. The stress hormone, cortisol, is decreased during exercise and serotonin (the feel good hormone) is increased. Endorphins (also known as the runners high) are also released during physical activity and these leave you with a feeling of overall wellness and energized. The chemical changes that occur during exercise are similar to antidepressants. This is why exercise is prescribed to many people with mild depression.

Let’s also remember that exercise usually gives you a change of scenery. Whether you enjoy just going for a walk or going to a class, getting out of the house and breaking up the routine can do wonders for your state of mind. Many women suffer from what we call “cabin fever” and usually reach their boiling point where they know that the only way to get through the day is to get outside, get moving and leave the dishes and laundry on their own.

Remember that “exercise” doesn’t have to be a chore or a structured routine and you should not feel like a failure if you don’t get in your 3-5 days per week. Be realistic and start one day at a time. Being at home with a newborn is quite the experience, but incorporating some regular physical activity wont just help you lose baby weight but be a much happier mom.