Emma Shaw’s Post

We launched our parent and baby exercise classes with a few goals in mind, one goal being: to forge a welcoming community where new parents can find both friendship and support. Our mission goes beyond fitness; we’re creating a safe space for open conversations about the real challenges of becoming a parent. Together, we’re tackling the isolation and stress that can come with this life-changing event, ensuring no one has to face it alone. The need for such a community is underscored by stark realities. In the UK, up to 1 in 5 women experience mood or anxiety disorders during or after pregnancy. But it’s not just women who are affected; around 1 in 10 new fathers also struggle with postnatal depression. These statistics highlight the urgent need for support systems that cater to both mothers and fathers. By sharing stories and providing a listening ear, our classes aim to offer a beacon of hope and solidarity. We’re here to say to every parent, “We see you and you’re not alone.” Let’s raise awareness and break down the barriers together. Muscle Mind Wellness #ParentingTogether #SupportForAll #YouAreNotAlone #CommunityStrength

Let’s chat about something that can cause mothers a lot of stress – our postpartum bodies. So often, we’re bombarded with images of celebrities who seem to bounce back to their pre-pregnancy shapes in no time. You won’t be good enough until you are thin enough. Not until you look like your old self. As nice as that idea can be, winning in motherhood isn’t about that at all. It’s about how we learn to embrace our postpartum body. Instead of stressing over ‘getting back in shape’ - let’s focus on learning to love and care for our postpartum body. Because we are not the same anymore. Fact! Are you curious about how you can learn to tune in to your postpartum body’s needs? Check out my website and join our FREE mom community, with an ever growing amount of resources for health conscious mothers. Want more personalized coaching? Check out my 12 week transformation course, specifically made with busy moms in mind. Keep rocking your post-baby body and know that you’re absolutely incredible! #TheBalancedMotherhoodClub

Did you know that around 1 in 5 women experience mental health issues during pregnancy or in the first year after giving birth? Although so many women experience these issues, many go without proper treatment and support for several reasons. Women may be scared to speak out about their struggles for fear of judgment, many healthcare providers do not routinely screen for mental health conditions in pregnant people and new parents, and many people find it difficult to get a referral or access proper services for treatment. Learn more during Women's Health Week. https://ow.ly/4LIm50REtwZ #ValueCHCs

So important to nurture young minds to allow them to flourish

During Women’s Health Awareness Month it’s important to acknowledge the crisis we are facing in maternity care in the U.S. Many mothers don’t have access to the care they need and are at risk during and after their pregnancy from hemorrhage, heart conditions, infection, and mental health conditions. Birth doulas are the bridge to supporting these mothers and helping them know when they are in danger or need help. By providing comprehensive physical, emotional, and informational support to mothers throughout their childbirth journey, you can support women in the workplace. Let’s raise awareness of women’s needs in the workplace! #WomensHealthMonth #BirthDoula

Excellent piece on the business benefits of investing in mental health support for parents; investing in early education and childcare; ensuring parental leave is taken; and addressing loneliness and stigma ⬇️ Many stakeholders have a role to play in this, including HR / employers #BigChangeStartsSmall

❗ Women are not prepared for motherhood - and that hurts their mental health, their families, their career, and the wider society. I came across an article today saying that almost 90% of mothers find that the reality of motherhood feels much harder than what they expected it would be prior to having children. This number was based on a study involving around 2,000 mothers across Ireland and the UK, but I'm pretty sure we would get similar numbers in many other countries, too. It's been over a decade that I started researching motherhood and the experiences of first-time mums, and as the years go by I still see the same themes popping up: new mothers feel unprepared, unsupported, let down... We talk more about maternal mental health but there seems to be no meaningful progress - and it's just not good enough. We need to do better. Becoming a mother (or a father, for that matter) is a life-changing experience; and although it's beautiful, it's also incredibly challenging. New mums need guidance and support through this journey - ideally from someone who can visit them in person, but if that's not possible then online courses can help, too. The course below is for new mums that I put together based on my book "Your Postpartum Journey" and years of research into the wellbeing of mothers. Check it out if either of these apply to you: ✔ you're expecting a baby or recently given birth ✔ you know someone who is expecting a baby or recently given birth ✔ you work with/manage/employ women who at some point might have a baby ✔ you're an employer who's looking to boost their maternity policy Comment below or send me a message, and let's talk. https://lnkd.in/dMFA5GSg #becomingamother #maternalhealth #maternityleave

Up to one in five women experience a mental health condition during pregnancy or the first year postpartum. Celebrating Safe Motherhood Day: Prioritizing Both Physical & Mental Wellbeing Let's celebrate the incredible strength and resilience of mothers. But more importantly, let's acknowledge the critical need to prioritize their health and well-being throughout pregnancy and motherhood. While physical health is undeniably crucial, ensuring a mother's mental well-being is equally important. Here's why: Impact on Child Development: A mother's mental health during pregnancy can significantly impact her child's development. Studies show stress and anxiety can affect a baby's brain development and birth weight. Postpartum Depression & Anxiety: 1 in 5 mothers experience postpartum depression or anxiety. Left untreated, it can affect bonding with the baby and hinder a mother's ability to care for herself and her child. Long-Term Health: Mental health struggles during pregnancy and postpartum can have long-lasting consequences for a mother's physical and emotional well-being. The Facts: Globally, approximately 287,000 women died from pregnancy-related complications (World Health Organization). What We Can Do: Raise Awareness: Let's break the stigma surrounding mental health struggles during pregnancy and motherhood. Open conversations and access to resources are essential. Prioritize Mental Health Care: Ensure access to affordable and quality mental health services for expecting and new mothers. By prioritizing both physical and mental well-being, we can create a nurturing environment for mothers and their children to thrive. #SafeMotherhoodDay #MentalHealthMatters #MaternalHealth

Among the challenges of pregnancy and childbirth, maternal mental health conditions stand out as a significant concern, affecting countless mothers worldwide. Shockingly, Black mothers are disproportionately impacted by these conditions, facing higher rates compared to other demographic groups. This glaring disparity demands urgent attention and action from healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities alike. By fostering awareness, implementing culturally sensitive interventions, and promoting equitable access to support services, we can work towards ensuring every mother receives the care and support she deserves during this transformative journey." Learn more, including ways to improve mental health care: https://acf.mobi/3PIsaz6 #BMHW24

Today is International Womens Day! Let's celebrate the women in our lives today. Women are prone to mental health issues such as stress, anxiety and depression for several reasons. Major life transitions, such as pregnancy, motherhood and menopause can be a cause of physical and emotional stress. Do you need ways to thrive? Express gratitude daily, do things you enjoy, live in the moment, connect with others, get enough sleep, exercise regularly and, ask for help when you need it. https://ow.ly/oKqE50QKZav