Australian fitness expert Emily Skye on how to stay in control of your body during pregnancy and beyond.
Model and personal trainer Emily Skye knows the importance of staying in shape. Now that she’s a mother of two, she’s still working out, but sees herself through a different lens.
“Focusing on what my body does, rather than how it looks, is something I’ve learned to do a lot since my first pregnancy,” Skye said. “I used to always preach it before, but I really believe in it even more now, especially after your body goes through something like being pregnant, which is quite a dramatic change in how your body looks.”
“I try not to be as picky with my body,” explained Skye. “I’m not looking at myself as critically. I used to be so focused on every little thing and trying to be perfect. Now, after having kids, I know that doesn’t exist, and I’m far from perfect, but that doesn’t mean my body isn’t amazing and beautiful.”
Overcoming postpartum depression
If you’re a new mother who’s feeling sad, Skye says you’re not alone.
“After having Mia, even though I knew I had everything I wanted, I remember thinking, ‘I’ve wanted a baby for so long, and now I’ve got a baby and she’s perfect, and I have such an amazing life, but why do I feel so down and so isolated?’” she shared, adding that she had a lot of help in getting through this time. “I’m really lucky and grateful I had such a strong support system around me. When I felt this the second time, I gave birth, I reminded myself this feeling is temporary, and these feelings will pass.”
Skye wants other new parents experiencing this kind of depression after giving birth to know that what they’re feeling is common and not to be afraid of asking for help. “Don’t be ashamed of your feelings because it’s quite common to have the baby blues or postnatal depression. I highly recommend reaching out to a professional or someone you trust when this happens. Don’t try to keep it to yourself,” she advised.
Body positivity and social media
While logging into Facebook and other platforms can lead to feelings of insecurity, Skye sees more women choosing to post more realistic content and how they really feel about their bodies.
“If I see something that’s triggering, I ask myself ‘why?’. We can’t completely control everything external. Educate yourself on why things are making you feel certain ways, and always remind yourself that some people still do just post their highlight reels online, and there are apps that make people look certain ways, and that’s not real. Focus on yourself and your own happiness and health.”
Working out while pregnant
Created with a team of women’s health experts, Skye’s FIT Pregnancy program is tailored for each trimester, and is designed for women who have exercised regularly prior to becoming pregnant.
“With the right guidance and approvals from your doctor, it’s absolutely safe to continue exercising during pregnancy,” said Skye. “Despite what many people think, both cardio and strength training are achievable for women at this time.”
Exercise can boost your mood and energy levels by releasing endorphins. It also helps you sleep better, tackle incontinence, and can reduce back aches. “Maintaining strength and endurance will also prepare you for labor and keep you ready for all that lifting and carrying when the baby arrives.”
And when that happens, says Skye, “It’s the feeling that you can care for these little people, and you cuddle and kiss them, and you just feel whole. It’s almost unexplainable. Your heart is full.”