I'm a strong believer that when I exercise consistently that I stay sane, and now it’s been proven!!! LOL But seriously exercising can help prevent postnatal depression and improve the overall well being of new mothers!
There was a study done which supports these findings. I'll spare you all the research mumbo-jumbo but basically a hospital in Australia initiated a Mommy and Baby Program (that is very similar to our BabyWeight Program) the program started when babies were between 6 and 8 weeks old and ran for about 8 weeks. During the course of the program moms participated once a week in an exercise program with their babies that involved cardio and strength training; they were also able to participate in educational seminars (Coffee Talk!!) in which they provided information about infant massage, nutritional info for mothers and babies, communicating with baby, etc. And basically what they found at the end of the study was that "there was significant improvement in the well-being scores and depressive symptoms of the group." The moms in this group reported they "felt like better mothers", and were "feeling positive, more energetic, happy and more refreshed." than mothers not participating. Whether the exercise, the educational seminars or the social component of the program is responsible for the results isn't known.
In my opinion all three aspects probably played a big role in women feeling better both physically and emotionally. Exercise gives you endorphins and makes you physically stronger and more fit, the educational seminars put your mind at ease that you know what you're doing and the social component gives you support and lets you know that you're not alone or the only person going through the sleepless nights, new lifestyle, etc.
I wish new mothers everywhere could participate in a group like this and this is why I'm so passionate about BabyWeight!!! If anyone is interested in reading a copy of the study please email me luly@babyweightinc.com and I'll send you a copy!
Until next time..... Love yourself and your babies!
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