Mama Muse • Alexsandra Letunica
" The stress of managing the household, breastfeeding and finding time for yourself is very challenging and sometimes leaves you feeling down with very little energy to give your best self to others."
A little about myself, I’m a mum of two little girls, one conceived via IVF and the second a natural miracle! A few years ago I found out I was going through pre menopause and had to begin IVF to save whatever eggs were left! We were lucky enough to fall pregnant after years of hormone therapy and finally an IVF cycle. After having our first daughter we fell pregnant naturally and are blessed with the two girls.
They are my world but besides managing the two, I’m the Nutritionist for Grill'd healthy burgers, I love to cook, host dinner parties and go for long walks and be in the sun.
My favourite thing about the newborn phase is the endless cuddles and stillness. With a crazy toddler running around, the warming cuddles are much needed and therapeutic haha.
What did you find challenging about being a new mother?
The most challenging thing about being a new mum for me was giving my best version of myself to everyone. Not only to the kids but to my husband too. The stress of managing the household, breastfeeding and finding time for yourself is very challenging and sometimes leaves you feeling down with very little energy to give your best self to others.
How were you supported during your postpartum period, and what would you change if you could go back in time?
I had lots of family and friends make meals and different snacks for me which took the stress of having to cook away. My favourites were the lactation cookies that I would eat every day as a pick me up!
Top 3 essentials would be:
My top 3 essentials would be (1) a good breast pump, one that allows you to move freely around the house so you don't feel like your glued down all day. (2) A nappy/ organisation caddy to keep in your room to organise all your little things you need for the night time shift (nappies, outfits, wipes, bottles and creams for you and Bub) and lastly (3) a good moisturiser! One that's fragrance free or natural and super nourishing to help with the dehydration from breastfeeding.
Are there any rituals or practices during your 4th trimester you'd like to share?
In my culture we do 40 days at home practice which can be very isolating, repetitive and lonely. Although a practise to help mother heal and protect baby, sometimes being outside fills my cup and makes me feel good so I've been going outside and small walks near home to make sure I'm taking care of my mental health so I'm not just cooped up inside.
See Instagram post here.