Pregnancy is an incredible journey, but it’s also one of the most physically and mentally challenging experiences.
During my pregnancy, I gained 60 pounds, and by the last few months, I had to set my longboard aside, I was so scary to hurt my belly and balance wasn’t as before. But that didn’t stop me from staying connected to the ocean. I spent as much time as possible swimming and taking underwater photos, right up until my due date- It was easier to swim than walk. The ocean kept me feeling active, grounded, and healthy —it was my sanctuary, and even without surfing, just being in the water was enough to keep me going.
I had always planned on getting back to surfing as soon as possible after giving birth, but life had other plans. I was induced at week 41, after two days of contractions and no progress, I ended up having a C-section. First few weeks were horrible, I felt like an old lady. I remember feeling so determined to get back to the waves, but the recovery process was much harder than I expected.
The healing process after surgery took patience — more than I ever imagined. At first, just walking felt like an effort, and I had to remind myself that healing was happening, even when I couldn't see it. As the weeks passed, I started light core exercises to gently rebuild strength, focusing on movements that wouldn’t strain my incision or overstress my body. Breathing exercises, gentle stretching, and short walks were where it all began. Gradually, I built up to longer walks, then some light swimming, which felt like the perfect way to reconnect with the water without pushing too hard.
Getting back on my surfboard after surgery was, hands down, the toughest part of my postpartum journey, wasn’t just about physical strength, but about trusting my body again.
In those first few sessions, around week 8 postpartum, I could barely paddle out to catch a wave, and standing up felt impossible. The frustration was real. It felt like I was learning to surf all over again, like I had lost everything I knew. I questioned myself if I could ever been back surfing as before.
After my third session, I finally stood up on a wave. It wasn’t perfect, but that feeling of riding the wave again was indescribable—pure joy, gratitude, and relief all rolled into one. My body had gone through so much, and yet, here it was, showing me its strength and resilience.
To all the new mothers out there, I want to say this: I know how hard it can be to see your body and hormones change in ways you never imagined. The journey back to feeling strong and capable can be long and frustrating, but trust that your body is exceptional. It has carried life, and it will come back stronger than before. Be patient with yourself, celebrate every small victory, and know that you are capable of so much more than you think.
As for me, I haven’t returned to swimming for underwater photography just yet because the waves haven’t been ideal on the North Shore. But I’m training almost every day, getting ready for the winter season. I’m more determined than ever to dive back in, stronger and more inspired.
Being a mom has given me a whole new appreciation for the strength and resilience of my body. It’s not just about getting back into shape; it’s about embracing the journey, knowing that healing doesn’t happen overnight, and recognizing that every step forward is a victory.
The ocean feels like home again, and I’m so excited to combine my passion for surfing and underwater photography with this new chapter of motherhood.
Always moving forward, So proud you are here sharing and being such a powerful momma bear. This story will help so many of us in moving forward. Can't wait to hear more from you!
I had no idea you were having such a hard time. It's wild to me that we endure all of this while loving this new life. It's so hard and exhausting but by far the best life imaginable. Our little ones keep us going and in love. But it does get better and better.
Through your come back, you become the strongest version of yourself. Thank you for sharing this. I can't wait to read more about your journey into motherhood so far and what you're doing to make your come back. I would love to shoot with you!