Getting your pink back
You may have heard the term “getting your pink back”, but what does it actually mean? The term is associated with flamingos. A trend that was inspired by social media influencer Lindsay Gurk about empowering postpartum women. I absolutely love this movement as it has given me hope during this postpartum period knowing I will eventually “get my pink back”.
If you have ever seen a flock of flamingos, you may have noticed how some may look white or very light pink. This is because flamingo mothers are drained of their color as they feed and take care of their chicks. In time, flamingo mothers do get their full pink back as their chicks become more independent and self-sufficient. This simple yet profound saying has resonated with me so much over the last several months. Oftentimes as moms, we feel as if we are losing our “pink”. I know firsthand how the hustle and bustle of everyday mom life can take a toll. We as moms are constantly pouring all our energy into our children. It’s what we do and that won’t ever change. But what do we do as moms if we feel like we’ve completely lost our “pink”?
I’ve been there. Those early postpartum days where you feel like you’re in full on survival mode. The late-night feeds, the constant 1 AM, 3 AM, 5 AM wake ups, pumping all hours on end, the list goes on. It may seem like you will never get back to “you” again but as a mom who was recently and am still in the thick of it, I’m here to tell you I’m starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel once again and gaining a little bit of my “pink” back. You will too mama, I promise.
It’s still a process but I strive to work on focusing on things that bring me joy and make me the best version of myself as a mom and wife. It could be as simple as taking up a new hobby, meeting new friends or planning a date night with your spouse. I’ve recently gotten back into playing tennis and riding my Peloton. As much as I love the physical aspect, it’s been so good, if not better for me mentally as well. I would encourage all moms to start doing anything that makes you feel like you’re getting your sense of self and purpose back. It’s very easy and normal to grieve the loss or change in oneself that motherhood often brings. Remember this is temporary and there will come a point again where you feel alive and like yourself once again. It just takes time.
I’ve also realized how important it has been to build a great support system around me. Connecting with other new moms, whether that be through online communities, local support groups, or social media platforms, has helped me tremendously. This is also why I started Hanging with Heidi. I know how important and uplifting it is when you feel like a shared experience or story can make you feel less alone. I also have found that it’s ok to ask for help. As moms there’s a lot of pressure to “have it altogether” and a sense of mom guilt/judgement when you ask for help in that you aren’t capable of doing things on your own. It’s actually just the opposite and by asking for help it shows vulnerable strength. It allows you to get a fresh perspective and regroup. Don’t ever feel ashamed for asking for help, especially during those early postpartum days.
I always voice to my husband that I feel like my life is one big rollercoaster. Well, it is. As moms we are constantly growing and evolving. Life may throw us curveballs, but I’m here to remind you not to give up and stay strong! Find things that bring you joy and happiness in the NOW, and eventually you to mama will “get your pink back”.
