In this episode of Moms Feelin’ Themselves: The Podcast, Elizabeth Wellington (a perinatal psychotherapist) and Sarah Battani Sams explore the complicated relationship moms have with their bodies during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. From bounce-back culture and body image struggles to the deeper psychological imprints we carry from childhood, they unpack why motherhood can reawaken old wounds around our bodies.

This conversation offers both honest experiences (yep, you can do Botox and still love yourself!) and practical guidance, with some strategies for self-compassion, curiosity, and embodiment that can help to heal the mind-body split. You’ll find that learning to embrace your mom bod isn't about forcing yourself to love every part of you—it’s about freedom, wholeness, and reclaiming your body as your most faithful guide. And yes, busting a move on the dance floor isn't gonna hurt.

Takeaways

• Why motherhood can retrigger old body image struggles.
• How cultural “bounce-back” myths fuel postpartum body dissatisfaction.
• Psychological roots of body image difficulties: early relationships, trauma, and the mind-body split.
• Practices for postpartum body acceptance include self-compassion, reframing, befriending your body, and embodiment (like dance and movement).
• Why self-acceptance in the perinatal period and Botox don’t have to be mutually exclusive.

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In this solo episode, Elizabeth shares her personal journey with perinatal mental health, opening up about postpartum depression, anxiety, overwhelm, intrusive thoughts and the cultural pressure to be a “good mom.” From a challenging pregnancy and birth to the isolation so many moms know too well, she reflects on how biological, psychological, social and situational experiences shaped her entry into motherhood—and the turning points that led her toward healing, clarity, and self-compassion.

This conversation is part personal story, part clinical crash course in maternal mental health, and part roadmap for moms who are struggling in early motherhood and wondering if they’re the only ones. Elizabeth hopes that hearing her experience may help you to gain valuable insight about your own, and inspire you with the knowledge that gaining self-understanding, sharing your story, finding validation and purpose, and connecting with the right resources can truly be life-changing.

Note: If you are struggling with your mental health during the perinatal period, please call the PSI Helpline at 1-800-944-4773, or the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA.

Check out all our resources here.

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In this episode, Sarah and Elizabeth (a perinatal psychotherapist) dig into perinatal mental health (aka emotional wellness during pregnancy and postpartum)—the stuff so many moms experience but rarely say out loud (looking at you, intrusive thoughts!). From the rollercoaster of feelings that come with new motherhood to the subtle signs you might be struggling with a PMAD like postpartum depression or anxiety (even if you’ve mastered the “I’m fine” facade), they explore what’s really happening beneath the surface and how to know when it’s time to reach out for support.

They break down the mix of biological, emotional, and cultural factors that make balance so hard in motherhood—and how shame, stigma, and the pressure to look like you’ve got it all together can stop moms from getting the help they need. Most importantly, they remind you that you’re not alone, you’re not broken, and you absolutely deserve support. Think of this conversation as part psychology deep dive, part heart-to-heart, and part resource guide for finding your way back to yourself.

Note: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be used as a replacement for individual therapy. If you are in need of immediate support, call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA.

Check out all our resources and show notes here.

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Find The Mom Dance Party at a city near you!

We love you, MFTs!