Health & Fitness
Body Confidence Quiz: How Do You View Your Body?
Learn how you measure up in the confidence department
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See Also
Love Your New-Mom Body Links - Parenting.com
Love Your New Mom Body Weight Loss Plan - Parenting.com
Look 10 lbs. lighter -- by changing your clothes! - Parenting.com
Lose without stress or starvation - Parenting.com


Total your A, B, and C answers

Mostly A's: Feeling Groovy
It seems like you are adjusting quite well to all of the changes your body has gone through, and you have a healthy perspective on what's important in life right now: experiencing the joy of your new baby without losing sight of who you are as an individual. When your doctor gives permission, have fun getting back into the exercises you love. Continue to take good care of yourself, keep on feeling good about your body and your life…and enjoy!

Mostly B's: Making Progress
Having a baby is hard on your body, and it can be tough on your self-esteem, too. It sounds like you may need a little extra attention right now. Go out of your way to obtain support from family and friends. Talk to other moms, or start a journal about your feelings relating to your body and motherhood. Sometimes women unconsciously punish their body as a way of coping with other more complicated problems. Could you be overeating in response to feeling isolated? Are you trying to diet away your new-mom insecurities? The more you know about your true feelings and desires, the more successful you can be when you decide to make some changes. Once you are ready to resume (or start!) your exercise routine, be sure to listen to your body. Don't push too hard too fast, and try to keep balance between workouts and relaxation.

Mostly C's: Time for Some TLC
You could be experiencing the body-image blues. But, remember, negative self-talk doesn't help anyone. "An old monk said, 'When you judge yourself, you break your heart,'" says life coach Barbara Sher. You will be more successful and have higher self-esteem if you nurture, encourage, and respect yourself. You may also want to consider adding professional counseling to your self-care routine and to watch out for the ever-so-common problem of postpartum depression. For extra support, there's always the web—definitely consider logging on to the Love Your New Mom Body message boards at Parenting.com/babytalk to connect with other women. Be watchful when you return to exercising: Obviously, one of the great boons of working out is that it can improve your outlook. But if you are frustrated with your body, you only add stress and risk overdoing it (or not doing it at all). Life is a marathon, not a sprint, and with a little determination, you will reach your goal!

Plus:

Visit the Love Your New-Mom Body Landing Page
Tricks to Look 10-lbs. Lighter (Instantly!)
Get advice and support on our Community Forum


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