As I drive past her, I catch a glimpse of her ponytail swaying rhythmically with each determined stride. Her hand grips the jogging stroller firmly, while she steadily pushes herself and her 50-pound bundle of joy uphill. I notice her toddler, snugly wrapped in a blanket, holding a sippy cup that he’ll surely toss out of the stroller at least 15 times during their run. There’s a look of determination on her face, a mix of exhaustion and sweat, radiating the triumph of carving out just 30 minutes for herself amidst the chaos of motherhood.
I recognize her because I was once in her shoes. During the early days of parenthood, I often felt overwhelmed by the monotony of nap times, endless laundry, and toddler tantrums. As a stay-at-home parent, I took on the majority of the daily responsibilities. My partner helped when he could, but most evenings found me collapsing onto the couch, utterly drained and nursing a throbbing headache. Mindlessly watching TV was my escape until he would gently remind me it was bedtime. I’d get a few hours of sleep only to wake up and do it all again the next day.
There was rarely time for me. I didn’t have the luxury of attending a yoga class to clear my mind, and chasing after a toddler did little to address my post-baby body. In my late 20s, I felt ancient and worn out, often gasping for breath after climbing stairs or playing at the park. Yet, I resigned myself to the idea that putting myself last was part of being a mom.
A friend of mine disagreed and urged me to join her for a run one warm summer evening in our peaceful suburban neighborhood. I was hesitant but agreed, primarily because she promised a glass of wine afterward. That first run was a struggle—I huffed and puffed, trailing behind her in much better shape. When it ended, she beamed at me, cheeks flushed, and exclaimed, “Wasn’t that invigorating?” I rolled my eyes, but as I limped back home, I discovered my partner had managed bedtime without me.
That summer, I made a conscious effort to prioritize myself. I became that mom with the swinging ponytail, trudging along behind a jogging stroller. I started packing snacks, sippy cups, and energy gels alongside our water bottles. I was the mom who had to pause mid-run to address tantrums, retrieve dropped toys, and search for lost sippy cups. I stood at busy intersections, wondering why drivers didn’t show more courtesy to a mom trying to run safely. I was the mom who cursed the hills, pouring every ounce of energy I had into climbing while my toddler wailed that he wanted to go home “now.”
Most importantly, I became the mom who realized that taking time to nourish my body and soul through exercise was not only okay, but necessary. So, as I pass by the mom on the side of the road, sporting her vibrant running tights and cap, I want her to know that I see her struggle. I see her wrestling with her toddler to put on pants and find shoes while he pleads to watch his favorite show. I understand the challenge of strapping in a squirming child while he demands to take the reins himself.
I can relate to that first mile, where the stroller feels like a mini tank, and I know she’s contemplating returning home because, honestly, lounging on the couch seems easier than pushing a protesting toddler down busy streets. I can feel the stroller handle’s soft grip and the jolting motion as she navigates potholes and debris. I recognize the relief of a downhill slope, where gravity helps lighten the load of a stroller packed with diapers, toys, and cherished security blankets.
What stands out most is how fierce she looks—an undeniable badass. As I pass her, I smile, and in the rearview mirror, I catch a glimpse of her contentment. It’s a look that says she knows her worth—because she truly is a badass.
For more insights on parenting and wellness, check out this post on our other blog. If you’re interested in home insemination kits, Make a Mom provides excellent resources. And for further information on pregnancy options, NHS offers valuable guidance.
In summary, whether you’re a new mom or a seasoned pro, remember that prioritizing your well-being matters. Taking time for yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential for your happiness and the happiness of your family.