We were lucky to catch up with Dear Kiwanna recently and have shared our conversation below.
Dear Kiwanna, we can’t begin to explain how much we appreciate you sharing about your PPD experience, but we can say that so many in our community are suffering from or have suffered from postpartum issues including postpartum depression and so you sharing your story and how you overcame it might help someone who is going through it right now or in the future. What can you share with us about how you overcame PPD? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
For the readers who may not know what PPD is, Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a medical condition that many women get once they’ve given birth. This comes with extreme sadness, anxiety, rapid mood swings, etc. The longevity of this condition can last up to two years after having a baby.
PPD is like sneaky grief. A lot of the time as a new mother you don’t realize that PPD is actually what you’re experiencing. You’re tired all the time either mentally or physically. You can’t exactly do the same things you used to or you’re not interested in those things anymore. Sometimes because of the changes we may experience sadness, loneliness, and start to isolate ourselves from friends and family. This is how PPD starts.
I overcame my PPD by accepting help and support. Having a strong support system to push and reassure me that everything is going to be okay. Having a supportive partner and mom friends to express my feelings and concerns to helped me to understand myself more and how to keep myself grounded.
PPD can put you in a really dark place if you allow it. Sometimes I felt like i couldn’t talk to anyone, I felt like no one would understand me. Writing, journaling, and meditation are ways to help channel your frustrations and clear your mind. Daily affirmations reminding yourself that you’re worth more than gold and your efforts are never unnoticed.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m a holistic business owner. I sell jewelry and spiritual items. I’ve recently rebranded but not so much my current business “dearkiwanna” which I put on pause when I gave birth to my first child.
I’m excited to get back in the swing of things. I love to create especially when I’m spiritual lead. Manifesting is one of the greatest gifts . To have the power to get exactly what you want. It’s not easy but it’s worth it.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
My number 1 skill would be my ability to “read a room”. This has helped a lot within my business. It has also helped developing a spirit of discernment and knowing who’s actually in my corner.
A quality I have is that I’m a relatable person. People feel safe with me. I offer trust and openness with everyone I meet. This has opened a lot of doors and great networking opportunities.
One thing I’ve come to learn is that everyone is dealing with their own things. You have to approach all situations with a sensible mind. The universe send us messages in all forms, it’s up to us to keep our minds clear and focused in order to receive.
For those who are just starting their journey try to keep a level head and know that everything happens for a reason and you are protected.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I’m feeling overwhelmed Ive found that’s it works best for me to be in solitude. Sometimes I have to be alone with my thoughts so and get lost in my dreams, goals, and fantasies. Listening to music is my number one way to calm myself. When I’m listening to music I get caught up in the lyrics and it takes me to another place, far from my frustration or anxiety.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://muvadk.myshopify.com
- Instagram: Dearkiwanna
