As Mother's Day approaches and we celebrate the journey of motherhood, it's a perfect time to honour expecting mothers and those navigating the early phases of motherhood. If you know someone who is pregnant or a new mother, consider gifting them valuable resources that provide insights, guidance, and empowerment during this transformative time. We have curated a list of books and audiobooks, each providing a unique perspective on pregnancy, nutrition, postpartum well-being, and the realities of motherhood.
In recent discussions led by influential figures like Kareena Kapoor Khan, Chhavi Mittal, Rujuta Diwekar, and Renese Yvette, the topic of pregnancy, motherhood, and postpartum experiences has taken centre stage. These experts and personalities have shared invaluable insights through audiobooks and books, offering guidance and empowerment to new mothers everywhere.
Insights From Celeb Moms
Kareena Kapoor Khan's Insights On Pregnancy Wellness
Kareena Kapoor Khan's audiobook, Kareena Kapoor Khan's Pregnancy Bible, emphasises the importance of maintaining a well-balanced diet and skincare routine during pregnancy. She advocates for focusing on essential micronutrients like calcium, iron, and vitamin B12, which can be found in local, accessible foods like millets, nuts, and vegetables. Kapoor suggests incorporating yoghurt (dahi) daily and staying hydrated with water, coconut water, and other natural beverages. Additionally, she shares a skincare tip: use a blend of almond oil and yoghurt to soften and relax the skin.
Chhavi Mittal's On Motherhood
Chhavi Mittal's memoir, More than a Mama: A Memoir on Motherhood, provides a candid exploration of her experiences as a mother and individual. Mittal challenges societal expectations surrounding pregnancy and motherhood, highlighting overlooked challenges and offering practical insights. She emphasises the importance of self-care and personal growth, sharing valuable advice on diet, fitness, and mental health during pregnancy and postpartum.
Rujuta Diwekar's Advice On Pregnancy Nutrition
In Pregnancy Notes, Rujuta Diwekar discusses the significance of starting the day with fruits or dry fruits instead of tea or coffee. She advises against excessive consumption of caffeine-containing beverages like tea or coffee, especially late at night or after meals. Diwekar also highlights the importance of monitoring sugar intake and being mindful of its sources, recommending natural sugars like sugarcane over processed alternatives. She cautions against packaged foods like biscuits, cookies, and flavoured drinks, stressing the need to distinguish between genuinely healthy options and marketed products.
Renese Yvette's Focus On Postpartum Well-Being
Renese Yvette's podcast, The Postpartum Happiness Podcast, centres on postpartum priorities and mental well-being. She encourages new mothers to check in with themselves regularly, acknowledging their thoughts and emotions. Yvette advocates for documenting feelings and using a scale to identify negative and positive emotions, emphasising the importance of self-care alongside caring for the baby. She suggests simple practices, like going for a walk or changing environments, to alleviate stress and promote mental health.
Collectively, these voices contribute to an empowering narrative for new mothers, offering actionable tips and fostering a supportive community. Through their diverse perspectives and experiences, they address common concerns and taboos associated with pregnancy and motherhood, promoting well-being and confidence.