As new first generation immigrant parents, the journey is often sprinkled with unsolicited advice and societal pressures, especially about how a mother should look and feel postpartum. In the latest episode of our podcast, Tijani and Yazmin tackle the pervasive and often toxic 'bounce back culture' that surrounds new motherhood.
Yazmin opens up about the personal struggles she faced after giving birth, sharing intimate details about the physical and emotional challenges that accompany the postpartum period. The couple discusses the double standards that exist for new fathers and mothers, highlighting the acceptance of the 'dad bod' as opposed to the unrealistic expectations placed on women to rapidly return to their pre-baby bodies.
The Musas also explore how these pressures manifest, from well-meaning friends and family members suggesting tight girdles and belly-flattening smoothies to the celebrity images that flood our social media feeds, presenting an often unattainable standard for the average new mom.
But it's not all about the problems. Tijani and Yazmin provide actionable advice to combat these harmful norms. They emphasize the importance of focusing on healing, resting, and bonding with the new baby, rather than succumbing to the pressure of looking a certain way. They also offer tips for both partners to support each other through this transformative phase of life.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has felt the weight of these expectations or knows someone who has. It serves as a reminder that postpartum bodies are a testament to the miracle of life and deserve time, care, and love—not the stress of bouncing back to a previous state.
So, if you're a new parent, know a new parent, or will be one in the future, tune in to this episode. It's time to embrace a new narrative—one that celebrates the postpartum journey and the incredible strength of mothers everywhere.
Listen now to join Tijani and Yazmin in changing the conversation and supporting a more nurturing and realistic approach to postpartum life. Full episode available on Apple and Spotify podcasts or your favorite podcast platform.
