How has the journey of motherhood shaped you — physically, emotionally, spiritually? AND/OR Can you share a moment that felt like a true initiation?
Motherhood has softened me and strengthened me in ways I didn’t know were possible.
With each pregnancy and birth my body has changed more each time. The stretch marks, softer curves and extra cushion to cuddle my babies. I really grew a deep appreciation for my body since becoming a mother. For everything it’s done to grow, birth, breastfeed and hold my beautiful humans.
The woman’s body truly is a miracle. Emotionally and spiritually, mothering feels connected. Most days I’m stretched to my limits and tested in ways I never expected. But I’ve come to see it as its own kind of spiritual practice. One that teaches patience, surrender, softening and unconditional love all at once.
How do you nurture your own growth while nurturing others? And what practices help you refill your own well when you are giving so much?
I’ve learnt over time that I can’t give my best to my family if I’m running on empty, so I try to prioritise small, simple rituals that feel like mine. Morning sunshine walks with the pram whilst listening to a podcast is a big one for me.
Cooking myself nourishing meals each day during their nap times and sneaking in self care rituals if I can too; 20 minutes in my at home sauna, skin care outside under the trees, water colour painting and journaling. It’s amazing how much a little snippet of time to yourself as a mother can do for your mental state.
How do you create space for your own dreams while mothering?
A lot of my days are beautifully consumed by mothering my children, but I still hold onto my dreams and manifestations I have. It’s so easy to lose yourself in those early years, it really is a 24/7 labour of love. Now one year postpartum with my second, I feel like I’m finding myself again and falling in love with this new version of who I am. Motherhood has changed me in every way, but it’s also brought so much clarity around what truly matters and the kind of life I want to create moving forward.
If you could offer one piece of wisdom to someone entering motherhood, what would it be?
Let yourself be changed by it. Don’t try to hold onto who you were before. Trust your instincts, ask for help and remember that the small moments are the ones you’ll treasure most.
What are your favourite HARA pieces and why?
I absolutely love the Eva G-string for everyday wear. It’s so comfortable, buttery soft and sits perfectly under clothing without digging in or showing lines. I also live in the Aroha one-shoulder tops. The inbuilt bra makes them so supportive (especially for us bigger-booby girls), and they’re just so easy to throw on with denim shorts or a flowy skirt while still feeling cute and put together.
Follow Kailey Lewis & Wiluna Studio
