MOMLETA-Support for ALL Ages and Stages

Women go through so many changes along the journey of motherhood.  Our physical bodies, our hormones, our sleep, our self-esteem/body image, our ability to have “me” time, and often our social support systems change. The list goes on. 

As a perinatal therapist, I've witnessed firsthand how essential it is to support the mental health of individuals during this time. One of the most effective and enjoyable ways I've found to nurture and honor all of these changes is by joining MOMLETA. MOMLETA is a community that offers fitness, nutrition, and community support for moms of all ages and stages. 

According to the American Psychological Association, up to one in seven women experience postpartum depression, and many more experience anxiety symptoms.

Exercise or physical activity is a well-documented antidote to depression and anxiety. The Mayo Clinic highlights that exercise releases endorphins and other natural brain chemicals that enhance well-being. For pregnant and postpartum women, moderate exercise tailored to their needs can be extra beneficial. It’s important that this exercise is approached in a healthy, supportive, and non-competitive environment. MOMLETA is more than just a fitness class—it's a sanctuary for mothers seeking both physical benefits and emotional attunement. As someone who has been attending MOMLETA Oakland classes for the past two years, I've experienced these benefits firsthand. 

Here are a few:

• Getting Outside: The act of being outdoors itself has a lot of mental health benefits. Being outdoors and exposed to natural light helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle and outdoor exercise has been shown to reduce stress and enhance mood more effectively than the same workout indoors. Just getting out of the house in those early days with a newborn felt so monumental and important for me.
• Community Connection: One of the most powerful aspects of MOMLETA is the sense of community it fosters. Isolation is a significant risk factor for new moms.  Connecting with other moms who understand the unique challenges of this stage of life is invaluable. Sharing experiences, offering advice, and simply knowing that you’re not alone can dramatically reduce feelings of isolation, anxiety and depression. If you listen to some of the conversations happening during the warm-up, stretching, or the light jog to the next spot you’ll often hear moms talking about how their baby isn’t sleeping through the night, how another parent is struggling with their new childcare arrangement or is even crying through most of the exercise class and you can bet there will be another person there who says “Yea, I've been there.” I remember feeling so relieved in these moments and wanting to hear what worked for others and to just have a space to talk about how hard it all can be.
• Healthy Exercise: MOMLETA workouts are specifically designed for pregnant and postpartum women - focusing on strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health without an emphasis on weight-loss. There are always modifications and an emphasis on listening to your body. This approach promotes body positivity and self-compassion, countering the societal pressures to "bounce back" after childbirth.

My personal MOMLETA experience has been incredibly rewarding. The camaraderie, the tailored fitness routines, and the uplifting atmosphere have not only improved my physical health, but also given me a space to build community and feel better mentally. Witnessing the transformation in myself and other moms has reinforced my belief in the power of MOMLETA. 

If you're navigating the challenges of pregnancy or the postpartum period, even several years postpartum, consider joining a group like MOMLETA! It’s a step towards embracing wellness, building community, and nurturing yourself as you nurture your little one.