When I discovered I was expecting, I was determined to embrace babywearing. Watching other mothers struggle with cumbersome carriers, I thought, “There has to be an easier way.” Instead of opting for a stroller or multiple carriers, we chose a convertible car seat and two Moby wraps—one in tan and another in brown, just in case one needed a wash.
My partner was the first to take the plunge. In the hospital room, he found a YouTube tutorial and expertly wrapped the fabric around himself, snugly securing our little one. He then showed me the ropes, and I happily carried our baby, Mia, out of the hospital.
From that moment on, I rarely put Mia down. Just four days after her birth, I wrapped her up for Christmas mass. By her first week, we were exploring a national park, and at two weeks, we were hiking with our dog, who carried our supplies. I shouldn’t have been so active so soon—no wonder I struggled with recovery for weeks—but I was eager to reclaim my life.
Babywearing was my solution, allowing me to nurse Mia discreetly while staying engaged in daily activities. We dined out, hiked, and kept up with household chores, all while maintaining our social lives. As new parents without nearby family, this independence was crucial. When my mother-in-law visited, she was amazed at how well we managed. “You’re acting like seasoned pros, not first-time parents,” she remarked. Thanks to the Moby wrap, we could seamlessly integrate Mia into our routines.
Beyond practicality, babywearing significantly impacted my mental health. Having battled major depression—including during pregnancy—I was at a heightened risk for postpartum depression. Research shows that physical touch is beneficial in warding off PPD, and babywearing provided constant connection. I cherished each moment spent snuggling and playing with Mia’s little feet, which I believe played a pivotal role in keeping my spirits high.
Eager to learn more about babywearing techniques, I ventured online and discovered forums filled with other mothers, including some from my local area. I nervously arranged a meet-up at a fellow mom’s home, uncertain about bringing my baby to meet strangers. However, I quickly felt at ease, realizing I had found a supportive community. I learned about different feeding styles and various baby carriers I had never seen before. I even got hands-on experience trying out a ring sling, a woven wrap, and a pouch. Inspired, I left with a new woven wrap of my own.
Embracing the babywearing community transformed my early motherhood experience. It was a warm and welcoming space where mothers shared their diverse parenting approaches—some used formula, others co-slept, and many carried their babies in carriers I once overlooked. Through this community, I formed friendships with mothers who understood the ups and downs of parenting, from toddler tantrums to the joys of new milestones. They celebrated my growing family and were there during difficult times, such as the loss of a friend’s baby.
Babywearing was a lifesaver for me. It brought back my joy and kept postpartum depression at bay. Most importantly, it connected me to a group of mom friends—something every mother needs. From mastering the Moby wrap to confidently wearing Mia on my back in a woven carrier, I eventually became a certified babywearing educator, helping other new mothers reclaim their lives too.
The Moby wrap laid the foundation for a smooth postpartum experience, while the wider world of babywearing enriched our journey through babyhood. I truly don’t know how I would have navigated those early months without it. I am deeply grateful for my peace of mind, the friendships formed, and the tender moments spent cuddling my babies.
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In summary, babywearing allowed me to reclaim my life, maintain my mental health, and build a supportive community of fellow mothers. It was an essential tool that made both postpartum recovery and the early months with my baby a joyful experience.