DID PREGNANCY ADD MORE TO YOUR BODY THEN JUST A BABY? AND AFTER THE BIRTH, ARE YOU STILL CARRYING AROUND A BIT MORE YOU, THAN WAS THERE BEFORE? IF SO, KATE FILMER HAS SOME TIPS TO MAKE YOU LOOK AND FEEL MORE LIKE THE ‘YUMMY MUMMY' THAT YOU ARE.

All you have to do is look around and you can see how unhealthy our children are becoming. Who could blame them look at the way our lives have become, the lack of movement most people indulge in is absolutely astounding! We were made to move, our bodies are built to withstand huge amounts of exertion. However, we sit there and wonder why we feel so frumpy and exhausted. Having a child can add to the lack of exercise you do, and really, what is this doing to your body and what example does it create for your child?

I hear it all the time, "Where do you find the time to exercise with two young children?" Well how could I not! It's important to me and it's an important example for my children. Our children base their self thoughts and ideas around what they see us do and yes, you might regally take your child to soccer practice or dancing, however, they are still seeing mum and dad as stagnant and they will continue to form their life ideals from what they see you do. You are always their first and best example.

"There's not enough time", does this statement sound like one of yours? If becoming fit is important to you, then it is important and because what you focus on expands, if it is truly something you desire and you are determined to find a way, then the universe will support you. Exercise gives you energy, plus it positively refocuses your mindset. So, if you have had a rough night with your child, the best thing you can do, is get out there and sweat it up, by moving that body of yours. Take it from me, I have done it both ways and sometimes you have to literally force yourself, however, you will be thankful later.

Step one: No excuses - If you feel unfit it's no one else's fault, so don't play the blame game, it is your life, it's your body so ultimately it's up to you! Most gyms these days have a crèche or if cost is a factor, simply take your child out for a walk in a pram. The fresh air is great for you both, plus the sights and sounds are a wonderful stimulant and learning experience for young ones. If you have more than one child, there are many prams that will fit multiple children and some even convert into a cart for the back of your bike. I have one of these and it is so versatile! If the weathers no good you can exercise in your home. Hire a workout DVD, or get creative, do a crazy dance in front of your child, jump around and get your heart rate up, they will love the interaction. 30 minutes 5 times a week is a great start, however, anything is better than nothing. So if you can't manage this in one go, try two lots of fifteen minutes or three lots of ten. Where there's a will there's a way.

Step two: Prepare your child - If you are heading out, talk to your child in a pro-active manner about what you expect from them. (For more information on proactive talk, please read my previous article, ‘Our Children Are Just Doing as They're Told'). Take a toilet stop before you go, plus pack a healthy snack and some water for the trip. If you are staying indoors, prepare them with an activity or prompt older children to join in. They love to run around with you, do star jumps and or follow the trainer on a DVD. Children are very smart and actually want to know how their bodies work, so explain positively the importance of exercise and then they will understand why you are exercising. They may even enthusiastically begin to prompt you. When I go for a bike ride or a walk, my girls often call out from the pram, "faster mummy, you can do it." I will always be forever grateful they are yet to know of the terminology "mush mush"!

Step three: Positive talk for all - Create and say some positive affirmations, "I have the time to exercise", "I am strong, I am well and I am full of energy" or "My child allows me the space and time to exercise". Plus when you exercise, focus on and praise your child for their good behavior and make it interesting for them, "We are almost at the troll bridge, do you think the troll is home today?" or "Who can see a red car or a bird?"

The healthier you are, the better you will feel and the longer you will be on this earth. The longer you are on this earth, the more time you will get to spend with your child. Your life, as always, is ultimately in your hands. What life do you choose?

Kate Filmer is a 30yr young self help author and entrepreneur. She has owned multiple businesses and is the mother of two empowered young girls. Her methods in teaching others draw from her own life experience and from the blissful, clear connection she feels to The Energy That Is. Her passionate goal in life is to assist others to strive forward on their chosen path, with peace and enthusiasm. www.hiddenpath.com.au