First Time Mom & Model, Israel Talks Transitions, Body Image, Breastfeeding, and Healing.
Credit: Lacey Howlind Photography
Israel Maternity Archives
I reached out to Israel, who I had met as a model at a local networking event, about her pregnancy and asked her a few questions surrounding her experience. I love the idea of women self reflecting and teaching others about the truth of one of the most amazing transformations that takes place within the human body. For the first time in history, women do not need to censor themselves and we are finally being able to choose how we think, feel, create, and act as a woman.
L: I was wondering how you felt about your transition into motherhood? How that effected you?
I: Pregnancy wasn’t the (most simple experience) for me, but the thought of having a little one always made me smile. When I gave birth every bit of negative energy left my body, I cried uncontrollably when I laid eyes on her. And its been the most amazing experience.
What I went through is natural as well as a miracle. Others compliment me very often about my body saying they can’t even believe I gave birth, as if my body looks very pretty.
L: I was wondering as a model how you felt about being pregnant and your postpartum healing process as a woman in general?
I: As a model I was excited, though I was worried about my postpartum body figure and stretch marks.. the day after I had her I still looked about five months pregnant, it didn’t bother me cause I was aware that it could take some time. Here I am, two months postpartum with minor stretch marks and secretly very self conscious and insecure about my small pudge ..... but you’ll still spot me wearing my stomach out because I believe I should be more confident as a model and mother. What I went through is natural as well as a miracle. Others compliment me very often about my body saying they can’t even believe I gave birth, as if my body looks very pretty. Im sure what I'm going through is normal though.
L: What would you tell first time moms about the reality of having a baby and any advice for other mom models?
I: I would say to other women during pregnancy keep your bump moisturized with cream to avoid stripes. And always remember the key to modeling is confidence.
L: How was/is your experience with breastfeeding?
I: As for breastfeeding, it's amazing and it even helps your postpartum body snap back (https://befitmom.com/nutrition-weight-management/breastfeeding-and-maternal-metabolism/)!! Breastfeeding is not only the healthiest route to take but it also is a bonding experience for me and my little one . Breastfeeding is the one thing I’d recommend every mother must do !
“As for breastfeeding, it's amazing and it even helps your postpartum body snap back!!”
Israel has a beautiful healthy little girl and continues to pursue modeling with dreams of becoming a signed model to an agency that represents fashion, commercial, and television models.
Why The Interview?
My goal as a mother, writer, entertainer, & creator is to bring light to the shadows of society. I believe that there is a lot of miseducation on women and birth and how the body heals as well as the stigma and embarrassment about breastfeeding . I believe more people should watch birth videos(especially men) and try to understand what goes into the power and strength of giving birth. I hope for society to alter the way we view females, to lift each other up. To realize the strength it takes and hours it takes for the body to bring to earth another life. To realize how quickly the body can heal.
As much as it can seem to be a compliment, "You look great for having a baby!" It's a back handed compliment and even a potential dig for what it takes to be able to go through the most intense physical labor and birth process! Any woman who gives birth is a super woman! She looks AS great as a woman who has a baby, who is conquering her dreams still, and raising the next generation. Power to you mama! You are a force of nature!
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