I learnt a new word as I was hearing this inspiring podcast today, its called “Matrescence.
With motherhood comes change. From a woman to a mother (which doesn’t happen overnight or the second your baby is born). Matrescence is gracefully accepting and celebrating that change, giving yourself the space to grow into it.
It changes how we look, how we feel, the partner we are and most importantly, who we are. It allows us to gracefully become “our own” version of a mother, not necessarily the one you grew up with or the one your friend follows. And whilst we often go into motherhood thinking we know ourselves and know the mother we will be, the reality may be very different.
It is interesting that there were so many things I had decided I will do or never do, once I am a mum. I would look around at others and mentally make notes on how I am going to be. But what I realised along the way is motherhood isnt a destination, its a journey. A journey where you slowly learn and grow into what is the best for yourself, your baby and your life situations. The day I realised that, I was overcome by profound confidence and calmness. When you realise you are on your own journey then trivial things like when your baby reaches age milestones/ comparing them with other kids or comparing yourself to other mums go out of the window.
Motherhood amidst a pandemic
Being a mother amidst a pandemic took on a whole new meaning, a whole new shift in the way I thought I would be and feel. While on one end I struggled with the lack of a village or physical help, on the other hand I learnt to take my own decisions, building my confidence and getting even closer knit as a family along the way. The pandemic brought out a side of me I never thought I had.
Here is the link to the podcast :
I am slowly learning to accept and enjoy this season, even thought it hasn’t exactly turned out the way I wanted it.
I would love to know about your personal journey to becoming a mother. Take a moment to celebrate your challenges, wins and everything in between that has made you who you are today. Hope this podcast inspires you just as much.
