Is motherhood a perfect experience? While your favorite TV show or movie may sell you a dream and tell you that it is easy and breezy or trying and thankless, it is rare that you hear from women who have had the experiences that are being portrayed and/or discussed in the media. One woman who has openly discussed her experiences is entrepreneur and past Moms With Coffee guest Felicia LaTour.
Felicia and her partner Gavin McNeill are raising two amazing children, 4-year-old Peace and 9-week-old Zen. Over time her passions have evolved as she continues on her journey to coming closer to her truest and highest self, but right now her current passions include being a voice for people, specifically women of color, when it comes to the worlds of mental health, wellness, parenting, and entrepreneurship. Due to these four points, Felicia has made sure to use her platform to share every aspect of her life and passions in order to provide inspiration to people each and every day.
As we here at Black Love acknowledge Black Maternal Health Week, we spoke to Felicia about her journey through motherhood (so far) — how she handled postpartum depression, things she wished she knew about motherhood, and much, much more.
Thriving As A Mom
5 Things You Wish You Knew As An Expectant Mother
Felicia LaTour:
1) You feel lonely at times.
2) You are overly sensitive.
3) Postpartum is a thing, but you can get over It with the right practices. (exercise, vitamins, eating right, etc.).
4) Your body will change, but with hard work it can go right back. Spend less time judging yourself and more time being in awe of the magical wonder(s) your body just created.
5) Any and everything in regards to mental health. I struggled a lot in this space and wish I knew I wasn’t alone.
Where You Found Support After Your Second Child
Felicia LaTour: My village lifted me up tremendously after Peace! I’m very thankful. The experience I had avoiding postpartum depression my second time around was to make sure to be mindful and to take proactive steps to mental health clarity. I worked closely with my holistic Dr. and made sure to stay active. I made sure to keep friends close to me, so I spent less time in my head. I changed my diet to vegan two months before delivering. I learned to ask for help. I learned to speak up when I felt underwater. We also hired someone to help me in the mornings, so I didn’t get flustered with having the two kids.
How You’ve Evolved As A Mother After Your Second Child
Felicia LaTour: My patience and mental clarity have evolved a lot! I often tell myself how proud I am of myself, actually. I’m a lot calmer the second time around and more confident.
Key Advice For Expectant Mothers
Felicia LaTour: Find your village. Ask for help. YOU AREN’T ALONE. Women need one another, so find your tribe!!!
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