The experience of becoming a new mother can be both exhilarating and isolating. As a woman adjusts to the immense physical and emotional changes that come with childbirth, she may find herself feeling isolated from the outside world - especially if it’s her first baby. This sense of isolation can be particularly rough for mothers who are staying at home with their newborns, as they may feel disconnected from the social support networks and daily routines that previously sustained them.

One of the biggest sources of isolation for new mothers is the overwhelming responsibility of caring for a newborn. Newborns require constant attention and care and this can be exhausting for mothers who are already dealing with the physical and hormonal changes of postpartum. (And Mamas everywhere said AMEN.) The constant demands of a newborn can leave a mother feeling drained and unable to engage in activities or relationships outside of her immediate family. Or honestly, even within her immediate family. I remember barely having the energy to hold a conversation with my husband in the first few months postpartum!

Another factor contributing to the isolation of new mothers is the lack of physical contact with others. The Covid-19 pandemic has drastically altered the state of the world, and it would be silly for us to ignore that. Even in non-pandemic times, the physical isolation of caring for a newborn can be isolating, as mothers may feel hesitant to leave their baby with others for whatever reason. But with all of the chaotic germs happening in the world right now, mothers are even more skeptical of leaving the house with their new babies - and understandably so.

New mothers may also experience isolation due to the significant lifestyle changes that come with having a baby. The lack of sleep, the need to constantly be on call for feedings and diaper changes, and the loss of personal time and freedom can all contribute to a feeling of isolation. This is particularly true for mothers who are used to being career-oriented or highly independent, as the transition to parenthood can be a significant adjustment. I was one of those women, and I wholeheartedly struggled in the transition to mom AND stay-at-home mom all at the same time. It was a reality warp for me and it took me months to come to terms with it. Know that if you are in the same boat, you are not alone.

The isolation that new mothers experience can have serious consequences for their mental health. Studies have shown that postpartum depression and anxiety are more common in mothers who feel isolated and lack social support. This is why it is so important for new mothers to have a strong support network, whether it is through friends, family, or support groups. After my personal experiences with PPA and PPD, I knew I wanted to help other women never feel the way I did and that’s how Mama Yoga came to be!

If you are feeling isolated in motherhood, no matter if this is your first or fifth baby, I encourage you to find a support system outside the walls of your own home. You need other women in your corner who are going through a similar phase of life as you or women that have been there before. Women need other women - it’s as simple as that. But we all know the reality of creating that support system of other women can be an uphill battle.

I would love to have you at any of my yoga classes! Baby + Me Yoga and the Mama Yoga monthly Mother’s Circle are wonderful answers to combatting the isolation mothers feel with a new baby. You are able to get out of the house, you are able to bring your baby along, and you are able to connect with women that are in the same phase of life as you.

My wish for 2023 is for all moms to find support in the ways they need it. Let’s work together to make that happen! If you see a mama struggling, offer your help in the way she needs. Often it is simply a listening ear ❤️