Being sidelined for the next four weeks as I recover from delivery hasn’t been easy. Always being one to get up and out in the morning for a refreshing workout, this new “only walking” thing has me feeling a bit blah (for lack of a better word). I likely had unreasonable expectations that I would be able to zip up those pre-pregnancy jeans… so, I’ve started to modify my expectations and be a little nicer to myself (and post-pregnancy body). It’s not always easy at times, I have negative thoughts and avoid mirrors somedays… but I remind myself that it took 9 months to grow our beautiful little girl, so it’s okay that after two and a half weeks I’m still wearing a bellaband here and there.

Yet, despite being on the bench from strenuous activities, I’ve still found ways that I can feel in control of my health without the activity level I’m used to. First on the list was finding some cute fitness gear to help me feel motivated. I’ve always been a fan of Albion Fit (last seen here) for so many different reasons, but I particularly love that the pieces are transitional. You can wear them in the yoga studio and then out to lunch with friends… or to run errands… or to simply relax at home. These jogger pants are super chic and comfortable. When combined with the flowy top, the two make for the perfect morning walk + relaxing Saturday (or any day) ensemble. I’ll be giving away two $50 gift certificates to Albion Fit over on instagram later this evening, so be sure to follow along to enter!

Here are some of my quick tips, if you’re injury sidelined, or post-pregnancy sidelined like me, for taking control of your health:

1. Walk: I’ve never considered “walking” to be intense enough for me, but I’ve found myself enjoying my cool morning walks. They help me to clear my head, work off some of the new mommy stress, and keep me feeling active.

2. Healthy snacking: Since breastfeeding leaves me absolutely famished, I’ve found that having healthy snacks on hand helps me to satisfy my hunger and feel good about the choices I am making. I love dried pineapple slices from Trader Joe’s, these peanut butter covered banana slices, pure organics peanut butter bars, bounce peanut cacao protein blast, pre-pakaged trail mix from Trader Joe’s (in the correct serving size… I can go a bit crazy with nuts!!), and apples, tangerines, and carrot slices.

3. Hydrate: Water, water, water. I drink copious amounts to help me feel like I am detoxing from the pregnancy days. My skin has also become dry after delivery, so hydrating makes it feel like I am quenching my skin’s thirst.

4. Sleep: Since my sleeping patterns have taken a pretty drastic shift as of late, I am trying to be better at napping when I can. I am still terrible at it… I feel like when she sleeps, it’s my opportunity to do all the things I’ve been wanting to do… wash my hair, catch up with girlfriends, etc… Yet, I know that when I nap, I’m taking care of myself … so I’m trying to commit to a few a week (see what I mean??).

5. Self-care: I think this is one of the biggest factors that women neglect. We give so much and forget to take care of ourselves. I am making daily attempts to be diligent about asking for help to get a few minutes to myself… whether that’s to wash my hair, take a longer than usual hot shower, or to grab a coffee by myself I find that when I get those small opportunities I am happier and better able to be a fully present mom!

{Outfit Details || Pants: c/o Albion | Top: c/o Albion | Shoes: New Balance | Beanie: Nordstrom (identical) | Scarf: Nordstrom}