Emily Kosnikowski (30 - she/her) and Chloe (13 mo)
Buffalo, NY
How has parenthood impacted your body image?
I am more proud of my body than I have ever been. I feel stronger, fiercer, more feminine, powerful and confident than I have ever felt in my life. The appreciation I have for my body and what it is capable of has grown beyond measure. I fully embrace the changes in my body and wear them with such pride. I am so grateful for this vessel that has grown and sustained life for another living being. I feel empowered to be truly me.
What was your postpartum experience?
My daughter came into this world as a powerful force, it was fast and furious. I gave birth to her naturally, after minor complications, on all fours; lifting her through my legs and into my arms embracing her as if I were Rafiki with Simba in The Lion King showing her to the world. I laugh thinking about it! I remember holding her skin to skin immediately after, looking at my husband and exclaiming, I DID IT! My birth could have gone down a very different road due to the minor complications but I worked hard to build a team that was supportive of my path. I DID it but they were my comfort and fueled me with positive energy.
After giving birth, I felt reborn into who I was meant to be. I had the most primal empowering experience and I lived off that energy. I was vibrating at a higher level than ever before. I felt so thankful for a healthy and beautiful journey.
My daughter was born in the summer time and I lived off the sunshine. We took daily walks because that is what gave me both mental and physical health. I feel that had a big impact on my postpartum journey. I struggled when she nursed, my hormones took me on a roller coaster ride. I experienced anxiety and learned what that word truly means. The reality, the rawness to me was very beautiful.
What is your truth? What is one piece of knowledge you'd pass along to your former self, or a new parent?
I have never felt more like myself. I have never felt more empowered or more confident. It sparked a very spiritual journey for me and I know that I was meant to be truly living life with this little soul. I am now part of a community, connecting with parents on another level through this immensely powerful experience.
I would tell myself, most of life will unfold in accordance with forces far outside your control. I knew what was meant to be would be for my journey but with parenting, to embrace it instead of fearing it.
Why did you choose to participate in this movement and share your story?
I love my body. I am truly proud of my body and the life it created. This project, this movement embraces everything I believe in. I want to empower others, share my story and help them find comfort and confidence in their journeys. I want to be able to reflect on this moment, to show my daughter, we are amazing.