As a postpartum mom, the scale can be both a friend and an enemy. It's a tool that can provide helpful information about your weight, but it can also become an unhealthy obsession that negatively impacts your mental and physical well-being. If you're a postpartum mom, it's crucial to have a healthy relationship with the scale and understand its limitations.

The Flaws of the Scale

One of the biggest flaws of the scale is that it doesn't accurately reflect your body composition. Two women can weigh the same but have vastly different muscle mass, fat distribution, and overall body shapes. This means that the number on the scale doesn't tell the whole story about your health and fitness progress.

Additionally, the scale can play mind games with us. If we step on it and like the number we see, we might reward ourselves with unhealthy behaviors, such as skipping workouts or indulging in calorie-dense treats. On the other hand, if we don't like the number, we might punish ourselves by restricting food or overexercising, leading to an unhealthy cycle of deprivation and guilt.

Non-Scale Victories

Instead of relying solely on the scale, it's important to focus on non-scale victories, which are indicators of progress that go beyond just the number on the scale. Here are some examples:

1. Lab Values: Tracking your cholesterol, glucose, cortisol, blood pressure, and thyroid levels can provide valuable insights into your internal health and whether your lifestyle changes are having a positive impact.
2. Strength Gains: If you're lifting heavier weights or able to perform more reps during your workouts, it's a clear sign that you're building muscle and getting stronger.
3. Energy and Mood: Feeling happier, more energetic, and better able to keep up with your kids without getting winded is a significant non-scale victory.
4. Sleep Quality: Improved sleep quality and quantity can indicate that your body is recovering and functioning optimally.
5. Skin and Digestion: Clearer skin, reduced bloating, and better digestion are often byproducts of a healthier lifestyle.
6. Hunger and Fullness Cues: Becoming more in tune with your body's hunger and fullness signals is a valuable skill that can help you make more mindful food choices.

The Decision to Ditch

For many postpartum moms, especially those struggling with body image issues or disordered eating patterns, ditching the scale, at least temporarily, can be a liberating and empowering decision. By removing the constant focus on the number, you can shift your attention to more meaningful indicators of progress and overall well-being.

If the idea of getting rid of your scale causes anxiety, start by weighing yourself less frequently, such as once every two weeks or once a month. This can help you break the habit of daily weigh-ins and reduce the emotional rollercoaster that often accompanies them.

Ultimately, the decision to keep or ditch the scale is a personal one. If you find that stepping on the scale triggers negative emotions or behaviors, it may be time to take a break and focus on non-scale victories instead.

Embracing a Healthier Mindset

As a postpartum mom, your priority should be nourishing your body, supporting your mental health, and providing the best care for your little one. The scale can be a useful tool, but it should never dictate your self-worth or define your success.

Embrace a mindset of self-compassion and celebrate the incredible journey your body has been through. Focus on fueling your body with nutritious foods, staying hydrated, and engaging in movement that makes you feel strong and empowered.

Remember, the number on the scale is just one small piece of the puzzle. By shifting your focus to non-scale victories and embracing a healthier mindset, you can navigate the postpartum journey with confidence and gratitude for all that your body has accomplished.

If you want to reach your healthiest weight without sacrificing your favorite foods or milk supply, The Postpartum Shift is for you!