Matrescence

Matrescence. Maybe you've heard of it, maybe you haven't. It is essentially the equivalent of puberty for new mamas. Hormones are all over the place, relationships are different, and your perspective and worldview will never be the same.

These are some of the feelings that come along with motherhood and they are completely normal.

Alexandra Sacks describes matrescence as a push and pull tension that happens uniquely in every new mother. Wanting to love on and be around your baby while simultaneously wanting time for your hobbies, essential needs, and other relationships. Feelings of competition, guilt, and shame are also normal.

Although our hormones return to normal around 2 years after the baby is born, Matrescence is a lifelong process and begins all over again with subsequent babies.

Motherhood is hard but it's also beautiful and we as mothers can embrace that as a normal part of our experience.