The Mama Perspective

Motherhood and Maternal Wellbeing

The voice behind the blog

Natasha is a mum of two little boys and the voice behind The Mama Perspective. Passionate about maternal mental health and self-care, she writes honestly about the highs, lows, and healing moments of motherhood.
  • Trying Harder to Stress Less

    Trying Harder to Stress Less

    Teaching myself to stay calm during stressful situations hasn’t always come easy. Whether it’s a tantrum from my 3-year-old or challenges at work, I do my best to get through it all but I’ve noticed that sometimes, stress gets the better of me. Now, in this stage of my second pregnancy, I’m learning to remind myself, “I can only do what I can do.” Sometimes that means finding calm to help my son through his big emotions, which often ends in a cuddle or us snuggling each other to sleep. Other times, it’s stepping back and asking, “Can this wait until tomorrow?”

    High blood pressure and stress

    I’ve had high blood pressure since I was 24. Doctors have always wondered if it’s hereditary, but one thing I’ve learned over the years is that blood pressure and stress definitely don’t mix.

    During both of my pregnancies, I’ve been under the care of a clinic in Manchester called MAViS, and they’ve been amazing at supporting me. They keep a close eye on me, especially during the third trimester, with extra scans and monitoring my blood pressure. Touch wood things are going better this time around.

    I guess I learned the hard way, through most of my life and my first pregnancy, how much stress can affect my body. During my last pregnancy, I ended up at the hospital countless times, day and night, and even had to stay overnight because my blood pressure was off the charts. This time around, I’ve had a few high readings, but nothing too concerning, and I’ve been able to get advice over the phone. Most likely, it’s been caused by worry and stress – not great for me or the baby. So, it’s really important that I take care of both of us as much as I can when it’s in my control. Unless it’s just pregnancy hormones and all the changes in my body, I’ll do my best to keep my blood pressure in check.

    Accepting my body image

    I’m learning that stress doesn’t have to be tied to how I look, either. I think that’s something I’ve come to realise since becoming a mum. It’s nice to feel good about yourself, but how you look shouldn’t define who you are. On the days when I feel somewhat prettier, sure, I get a little confidence boost, but it doesn’t change the fact that I’m a good mum, a hardworking person, and a wife who wants to support my husband in every way I can.

    The stretch marks don’t bother me like they did the first time. I’ve noticed some more appear on my thighs, and the ones from my first pregnancy with Freddy are showing up again but honestly, they make me feel happy. I’m grateful that I get to grow another little human. Women’s bodies are incredible. I’m amazed at how much my baby bump has grown recently, and all I feel is love.

    Some days, I worry a bit and feel guilty for not giving my baby bump enough attention. So whenever I can, I take a moment to rub my belly, say “Hi baby!”, and remind him that I love him. He doesn’t know it yet, but he’s already surrounded by so much love from his daddy and big brother. It’s a simple way I bring myself back to calm.

    Right now, as I’m writing this post, I am lay in bed (sat up with my pregnancy pillow) feeling relaxed as I write out what’s on my mind. Writing really is good for my soul and as I’ve said before it’s like my therapy.

    If you’re feeling the effects of stress right now – whether it’s daily life, motherhood, or work – remember, you’re human. Some things can wait, and your health always comes first. If you’re like me, you’ll probably find yourself enjoying a cup of tea or running a nice bubble bath!

    Resources to help to cope with stress

  • Why Writing is Like My Therapy

    Why Writing is Like My Therapy

    As a mum, I know the challenges of trying to balance everything from family life to personal wellbeing, and everything in between. Where’s the time to keep fit, eat healthily, and have me time? Like many mums, I’ve experienced moments of feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and at times, utterly drained. But through it all, one thing has helped me come back to feeling calm and clarity and that’s through writing. And hugs and reassurance from Danny quite a lot – I couldn’t ask for a more supportive husband.

    Running The Mama Perspective has become more than just a blog for sharing tips and personal stories. It has become my therapy – a safe space where I can share my thoughts, reflect on my experiences as mum and every day life and find release in the process. It’s a place where I can be honest and hope that at least one person out there can relate to what I’m feeling as I write a new post. Here’s how writing helps me manage stress, and how it can help you too.

    Expressing my thoughts

    Motherhood often comes with a flood of emotions. The highs of parenting are amazing, but the lows can feel overwhelming and lonely a lot of the time. Writing has allowed me to express these emotions. Whether I’m having a rough day with my son being more sensitive (gets it from his mama) or reflecting on challenges at work, writing everything down on this blog gives me a sense of release. I still might feel some anxiety or stress but when I unload all those thoughts here, it does reduce the amount that was initially there.

    Not that I should have to validate my feelings to anyone, but it’s like my readers understand me and I can let go of the emotional weight. In person, it’s not often there are more than a handful of people who can respect my feelings and give me the space to express myself without judgment. But when people read my blog, it makes it all worth the while when, someone that could be a complete stranger, just gets it.

    Some kinda escape from the chaos

    Motherhood has its chaotic days where it’s easy to get lost in juggling responsibilities, and trying to meet everyone’s needs. Writing gives me an escape, even if just for a little while. When I sit down to write, I get lost in my own thoughts, which means I can disconnect from anything that’s pressuring me to feel the way I do.

    It’s like a therapeutic pause – a reminder that amidst the chaos, I deserve time for myself. It helps me reconnect with who I am, and most of all reminds me how much I do love being a mum no matter what kind of day I’ve had.

    A sign of growth

    When I look back at my older blog posts, each one reminds me of how far I’ve come. I see the challenges I faced, the lessons I learned, and the ways I’ve grown. Writing not only helps me release stress in the moment, but it also provides an online journal of my personal journey into motherhood and wellness.

    It feels good reading my own words months later to realise how much I’ve overcome. Whenever self doubt kicks in, this blog reminds me that I can handle whatever comes my way. It’s as if I turn to think, “If I handled that, I can handle this.”

    Writing on The Mama Perspective has become an important part of my mental and emotional wellbeing. I’m so glad I decided to start this blog. It’s my therapy – a place that helps me process my feelings and step back from the days when I’m struggling.

    Have you ever thought about blogging or creating a journal? Whether it’s for yourself or to share with others, writing can help you find clarity, reduce stress, and connect with your authentic self. It’s not about perfection; it’s about the release it gives you to feel like yourself after a few deep breaths and a few drafts before hitting publish!

  • Emotional Shifts During the Third Trimester of My Pregnancy Journey

    Emotional Shifts During the Third Trimester of My Pregnancy Journey

    I’m becoming tearful quite a lot and have cried on a few occasions. I’m panicking a little bit now about how I’m going to cope as a mum with two children. Obviously I’m not alone because I have my husband but I still can’t help but wonder how I’m going to cope emotionally and mentally. Already, before baby is born, I’m feeling overwhelmed just at the thought of people visiting; people might be wondering if they can see me in hospital or come round to the house. There’s going to be a big change that me, Danny and Freddy need to adjust to as a family once we do welcome our second child into the world first.

    Perspectives and wants are allowed to change to do what’s best for me

    Take not having a baby shower as another example. I’ve had a few people ask why I don’t want one or why I don’t want to do anything that’s similar. The truth is simply because I don’t want to. I know things aren’t always the same the second time around but I didn’t overly enjoy my first one. I spent too much time considering other people’s feelings and I even ended up in hospital later than night with high blood pressure – something I already have outside of pregnancy so you can imagine the unnecessary stress it caused.

    But really, it’s more that I want to make all the time I can for Freddy. I’m feeling pretty guilty of getting a short fuse with him recently because of how tired and irritated I feel. I can’t always explain it but I told myself I’d be okay. I think it’s hit me now that I am going to need some support and people will have to respect my choices. A few people are excited about celebrating the new baby to be born; whilst I am trying to be the best I can for Freddy right now. It’s about making sure he, baby and me are okay. Celebrating can come later. Why am I always the person who feels like I have to validate my feelings or reasonings for the choices I make for me?

    A reminder to myself for right now and the future

    I know it’s important to take care of myself – physically, emotionally, and mentally. I’m learning to hesitate less when it comes to leaning on Danny especially as he’s the one person who knows me inside out. Even though this transition might be challenging at times, I know I’m a strong person, even if there are days full of tears more than others. I will get through this change and continue to give all the love I can for both of my children. It might not feel like it right now but I know between all the ups and downs, everything will be okay.

    The love I have for Freddy isn’t going anywhere. In fact, it’ll probably get even stronger seeing the relationship that him and his brother are going to share. He’s already showing a lot of love to bump and saying “Good morning” or “Hi” each day. Throughout this whole pregnancy, I’ve done my best to include Freddy and refer to baby as “Freddy’s baby brother.”

    The best is yet to come.

Anxiety Confidence Family Mental Health Mindset Motherhood Parenthood Parenting Positivity Postpartum Self Esteem Wellness