"My body isn’t just mine anymore"—10 great things I’ve had to give up since becoming a mom

I used to put on makeup every morning before going out. Nothing fancy, just a quick five-minute routine that boosted my confidence—and I loved doing it. Music played, I sipped my coffee; it was a cherished part of my morning ritual. Now, I’m happy if I have time to pull my hair into a ponytail after dressing and feeding the kids. Makeup is reserved for special occasions only.

No surprise this made the list! I’ve heard it so often from other parents—cherish every uninterrupted night’s sleep. Now I’m the one telling my single friends the same.

I love yoga. I used to attend classes with friends and practiced at home at least twice a week—soft Eastern music, incense, the whole vibe. Now, reality means one kid climbing on my back while the other clings to my leg crying. I’m just grateful for a few minutes to stretch before bath time.

I used to love curling up with a good book and tea until I got sleepy. Or soaking in a hot bath until the water cooled. Watching an episode—or five—of Sex and the City. Now, even a quick shower requires coordinating with my husband to watch the kids.

We can still ask someone to watch the kids for a dinner out, and we’ve done it. But sometimes the little one screams until my mom gives up and calls me back. Another time, the older one’s ear started hurting and the whole date was ruined. Once, my sister-in-law couldn’t make it last minute. So we try, but it’s not easy. Even when I leave the kids with someone to run errands, I’m glued to my phone—hard to truly relax.

Before kids, I’d sometimes get home late after a spontaneous outing with friends. Or on a Friday night, my husband and I would head to Lake Balaton and find a place to stay on the spot. Now, spontaneity is gone—every plan needs careful organizing and coordination.

Before kids, I took it for granted that my body was mine alone. Since pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding, I haven’t fully “gotten it back.” The kids climb on me, sit on me, lie on me. My daughter styles my hair, my son rolls toy cars over my belly. They totally own it now—and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

This was something I was just starting to get into before becoming a mom. Now, there’s no chance to practice. These days, five minutes of quiet feels like meditation.

Before motherhood, I only had to focus on myself and take responsibility for my own actions. Now, 80% of my thoughts revolve around planning for the kids, worrying about them, and everything related to them.

Sleeping in until noon on Saturday, lounging around, breakfast in bed, falling back asleep, movie nights… These days, I’m just happy if I wake up at 7 a.m. instead of 6, even if it’s to the kids jumping on me. No regrets.