Mediaplanet sat down with Nitsan Raiter, who opens up about the realities of postpartum life, shifting priorities, and the moments that bring her joy.
How has motherhood changed your mindset or perspective on life?
My priorities have shifted, and they are so different now. I am a type A, textbook Capricorn to a tee – very goal and career oriented. I originally thought I would be taking a three-week maternity leave and that would be plenty. Now I see how unrealistic that was. Thanks to Estelle, she taught and continues to teach me how to slow down and enjoy the present moment. Things I would stress about pre-Estelle seem so insignificant now.
Motherhood puts life into perspective and really makes you realize what is important; to be present in the moment and grateful for the right now. What I look forward to most nowadays isn’t about me – it is all about her. Her future, her tiny moments, her big milestones.
What is one part of postpartum life that caught you off guard and that you think more people should talk about?
Postpartum is a huge “Instagram VS Reality” check. We often see the perfect moments on social media, given they are so beautiful to capture. Truly realizing that chaos is okay and just trying to survive on little sleep, the house being a mess, and the routine being non-existent is important, or else I would go crazy.
Feeding is a topic I feel I didn’t do enough research on as I was unaware of how emotionally and physically taxing it could be. Also, it’s a topic that everyone seems to have an opinion on!
I keep reminding myself that as a mom, you can’t pour from an empty cup. What keeps you happy and sane, is ultimately what is best for both you and your baby. Whether you choose to breastfeed, use a bottle or formula – knowing what your options are and doing what works best for you and baby is most important.
What has been the most special or rewarding moment of motherhood for you so far?
Being able to call myself Estelle’s mom. Just being able to take care of her and experience the truest happiness in giving and not taking. Studying all of her features, having her smile at me, taking every bit of her in. Appreciating my body that made her and seeing how she’s such a combination of myself and Josh.
There’s so much pressure on moms to “do it all.” How do you navigate that pressure while staying present in the moment?
Can I circle back on this one? Definitely still figuring this out, a work in progress. I try to be gentle with myself and have patience. As someone once told me, if all I do at the end of the day is take care of my baby, then that is enough.
What little moments help you feel like yourself again amidst the chaos of new motherhood?
It’s really the little things I’m finding that make all the difference. There is such a fine line when it comes to multi-tasking while still being present. Taking my morning shower, having coffee, and doing my skincare is truly all I need to feel like myself right now. Putting on my favourite sweats, getting outside as a family, and taking our dog for a walk (which has been hard with our Toronto winter but doing our best).
Also, asking for help when needed. I am so grateful for our support system.
Check out Nitsan Raiter at instagram.com/nitsanraiter.
