At dawn, when the first gentle light crept through my window, I caught a glimpse of a reflection that felt both familiar and strangely distant. The mirror showed me an echo of the vibrant, self-assured woman I once was, someone filled with energy and limitless possibility. Yet, it also reminded me of the physical changes I experienced after pregnancy. Those changes left me feeling disconnected from that version of myself. These shifts were more than just physical. They affected how I saw myself and how I moved through my daily life. As I stood there, I found myself wondering how to bridge the gap between who I was and how I felt now. That moment sparked my desire to rediscover my confidence and sense of self.

Being a mother is a journey filled with love, joy, and countless sacrifices. What often goes unspoken are the changes it brings to our bodies and how we feel about ourselves. I am Jacylene Tiew, a devoted mother of three and a passionate MOE instructor. Amid the hustle of daily routines, from work meetings to school runs, I found myself struggling with unexpected physical changes that began after the birth of my youngest. These shifts not only affected me physically but also weighed heavily on my emotional well-being. Persistent back discomfort and a soft, bloated tummy became part of my everyday life. I missed the freedom of slipping into fitted clothes without hesitation. The confidence I once had felt increasingly out of reach. Over time, the emotional weight of these changes influenced how I carried myself and interacted with those around me. I realised I needed to find a solution to help me reconnect with my body and regain my sense of self.

As the days went by, I became increasingly aware of how my body had shifted after childbirth. Discomfort and bloating became familiar companions. Each glance in the mirror served as a reminder of those changes. Wanting to better understand what I was experiencing, I explored various ways to manage these concerns, including regular exercise and trying Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments. Despite my efforts, I found it challenging to notice significant differences, especially in my tummy area. The frustration of seeing little progress made me question whether I was missing another option, something that could provide the clarity and support I had been seeking.

One evening, while browsing online, I came across an advertisement for Orchard Clinic. The sincerity of the message, particularly its emphasis on supporting women through post-pregnancy changes, resonated with me and prompted me to learn more. I spent time reading about how they provide information to support women facing similar concerns. What stood out to me most were the detailed explanations of postpartum conditions, including Diastasis Recti, and the various approaches to managing them. Reading personal stories from other mothers who had faced similar physical and emotional challenges, and learning how the clinic provided them with understanding and guidance, gave me a sense of hope. Motivated by these shared experiences and the clinic’s approachable resources, I decided to schedule a consultation to gain further clarity about my situation and explore what options might be available. That decision marked a turning point in my journey toward understanding myself better.

When I visited Orchard Clinic, I was welcomed into a calm and supportive environment. During the consultation, the therapist listened attentively as I described my experiences and concerns. After assessing my abdominal area, she explained that my issues might not be solely related to fat accumulation but could be associated with Diastasis Recti, a condition where abdominal muscles separate during pregnancy. Knowing that this was a common occurrence reassured me and helped me see my symptoms in a new light. Learning about the possible causes allowed me to better understand my body and eased the uncertainty I had been carrying.

During the consultation, the therapist explained options that could support my core muscles and improve overall stability. She introduced embody technology, a non-invasive option designed to engage muscles and provide support for abdominal concerns, particularly in managing Diastasis Recti. Knowing that it was both non-invasive and suitable for my busy schedule reassured me. Understanding how this approach could complement my efforts without surgery gave me hope that meaningful improvements were achievable.

Encouraged by the insights from the consultation and the therapist’s recommendation, I decided to proceed with the personalised care plan. After a few appointments addressing my Diastasis Recti, I began to notice small but meaningful improvements. As the sessions progressed, I could feel how the muscle engagement from the embody technology supported my core strength. My core felt more engaged, my bloating gradually reduced, and everyday activities like carrying my children or standing for long periods became more manageable. These changes unfolded at their own pace, reflecting my personal journey rather than an immediate transformation. What resonated most with me was how becoming more aware of my body’s movements helped me approach daily tasks with renewed confidence and ease. This physical awareness went beyond comfort. It reminded me of how disconnected I had once felt, making the reconnection with myself all the more meaningful.

Looking back, I feel more positive about how I approach daily life. Simple moments, like choosing clothes without second-guessing myself or feeling more at ease during regular activities, have contributed to a renewed sense of self-confidence. It is heartening to realise that the confidence I thought I had lost was still within me, waiting to be rediscovered through patience and mindful self-awareness. Reaching this point reminded me of the importance of listening to my body, being kind to myself, and seeking information when things feel different. These seemingly small changes have collectively made a meaningful difference in how I carry myself each day. Glancing in the mirror now, I no longer see just the physical reflection. I see the journey, the resilience, and the woman who has reclaimed her sense of self. It brings a sense of closure to the journey that began with that early morning reflection.

To fellow mothers navigating similar post-pregnancy concerns, I want to share that seeking guidance can be a valuable step toward understanding your body. Speaking with professionals who recognise these changes can offer clarity and reassurance. Sometimes, hearing the stories of others can be the encouragement you need to take that first step. Sharing my journey is my way of giving back to that circle of support, hoping it reaches someone who needs to hear that they are not alone. My decision to visit Orchard Clinic stemmed from a desire to better understand what I was experiencing. Along the way, I appreciated how the team listened to my concerns and took the time to explain what was happening with my body. Their empathy and thoughtful guidance helped me feel more informed and at ease, making the journey less overwhelming. This experience reminded me that our stories, when shared, can inspire and encourage others to find their own path toward self-understanding and confidence.