inspiring women series | laurel gallucci
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Laurel is the owner and co-founder of Sweet Laurel Bakery and mama to baby boy, Nico. It was a pleasure getting to know more about her and her insight as a new mother. Read more below…
AO: What's one thing you wish you had access to before you started a family, be it in doctors, healers, community, etc.
LG: Definitely prenatal Pilates with a focus on the pelvic floor. I did prenatal yoga, but that strengthening that is so important during pregnancy was not addressed. I also wish I had a practitioner focus on the strength and breathing behind pushing. Pushing was something I was totally unprepared for.
AO: What are you surprised that no one ever talks about that happens to your mind or body before pregnancy or after pregnancy.
LG: The recovery is intense. I couldn't walk normal after my vaginal birth and I think I attempted to move around and walk about too soon. I was eager to move and be outside, and as soon as I got home from the hospital I was doing just that! Probably not the best idea. I should have listened to my mom, who encouraged me to chill and rest more post birth.
AO: If you knew then what you know now, would you change anything?
LG: I'd prepare physically for pregnancy and delivery, and allow myself to heal more before power walking up a hill!
AO: What has been the biggest surprise post pregnancy?
LG: How much I love my beautiful baby, and how much my body has changed.
AO: How has your body amazed you on this journey?
LG: I know this is vain, but I never thought my tummy would go back to normal after birth, but it pretty much has! I'm also super surprised by how much energy I have postpartum, and I'm so grateful that my body is giving me that gift.