There’s been some amazing writing and discussion about modern motherhood, the big transition, the weight of expectations, and more.
Note: I’ve not included any resources that are directly about parenting, partly because I want to centre women, and partly because there’s a big spectrum of parenting philosophy so find your best fit.
📕 Matrescence by Lucy Jones
I didn’t have much time or brainspace to read books postpartum, but when I did finally read this one, I wish I had sooner. As well as summarising some mindblowing research about the physical and mental changes women go through when they become a mother – did you know the impacts are greater even than adolescence! – I felt less alone in my experiences. Buy the book online.
📕 Milk by Joanna Wolfarth
This book mainly explores representations of breastfeeding and women’s bodies in art and history, and their parallels with today. But I was really struck by the beautiful descriptions of early new motherhood, the transition of matrescence and dealing with your own and society’s expectations. Buy the book online.
🎧 Motherkind podcast
Zoe Blaskey’s podcast was a bit life changing for me postpartum. She introduced the concept of matrescence to my confused and overwhelmed mind. She also has a book out, which has tools and exercises to help find yourself again. Find the podcast and book on her website.
📱 Social media accounts
These accounts are super interesting for support and validation juggling motherhood with life, career, family etc.