Life’s Sweetest Adventure: Journey of Motherhood
Becoming a new mom is an extraordinary journey filled with joy, wonder, challenges, and life-changing experiences. It’s a role that transforms your world in ways you could never have imagined.
“Motherhood: All love begins and ends there.” —Robert Browning
As a new mother, I invite you to join me on this amazing journey called motherhood. Together, we’ll explore the joys, challenges, and love that make this experience so special. Whether you’re a new mom, expecting a baby, or curious about what motherhood is like, I welcome you to join me on this adventure.
I became a mother at 34. Like most new moms, I got plenty of advice from my parents, in-laws, and relatives. Recognizing their genuine concern for my well-being and my desire to fully embrace this journey, I made the decision to take a significant break from my professional life. Not all mothers have the privilege of dedicating themselves entirely to pregnancy and the first year of their child’s life, so to those incredible moms who are successfully managing both roles, you are truly remarkable.
Our journey begins with excitement and anticipation. I can very well remember the moment when I first held the pregnancy test strip in my hand and saw the positive result. The realization that a new life is growing within, and the responsibility that comes with it, is both thrilling and and overwhelming. It’s normal to feel anxious about how things will go. To all the expecting moms out there: you’re not alone.
So, I encourage you to stay calm and focus on the positive aspects of this journey. Find activities that bring you joy and relaxation. In my case, reading good novels became my refuge, shielding me from any negative thoughts. If meditation helps you maintain your sanity, then embrace it. Whatever helps you stay in control, hold onto it tightly.
As the pregnancy progresses we all go through physical and emotional changes. Hearing my baby’s heartbeat for the first time during the ultrasound was unforgettable. Even now, with my daughter being 15 months old, I think about that moment when I hug her. I might come across as a bit eccentric, but after all, as mothers, we bring new life into this world. So, let’s embrace our eccentricities and cuddle with our little ones as much as our hearts desire.
As the due date gets closer, it’s natural to feel more nervous. Too many “what ifs” start racing through our minds, and it becomes difficult to rein them in.
In Kolkata, the majority of deliveries nowadays are performed through C-section, so I had mentally prepared myself for that possibility right from the beginning. I had heard about the pains and anxieties associated with natural delivery, so I was uncertain about which option I would have chosen if I had the choice. However, the prospect of finally laying eyes on our little one serves as a beacon, enabling us mothers navigate through this pain with greater ease.
The first few months after birth are tough. Sleepless nights become routine, whether you’re up feeding your baby or just checking on them. For moms who’ve had C-sections, it’s even harder because you’re still healing. If you have help, it’s a blessing, but for those without, the challenges can lead to exhaustion or even postnatal depression (a topic I’ll discuss another time).
To summarize, “Motherhood” is a story of love, growth, and an unbreakable bond with your child. It’s a journey filled with challenges and triumphs, and it shows just how strong and amazing moms are.
Sarbani G Banik
Director, Founder – Momokos
