Salsa Babies offers more than just a workout for new moms

Participants reap physical and emotional benefits through fitness program.

 

Noorin Chatur-Muhammad
Kicker

When Christina Robinson had her first child almost seven years ago, she was not aware of what, if any, programs were in place to support young mothers.

“ I could’ve used mom friends,” Robinson said. “But, I didn’t know where to look or how to find a support system. It was one of my many struggles (in) my first round of parenting.”

Seven years later, and with a 10-week-old baby boy, Robinson stumbled upon Salsa Babies, a local group of moms with young babies who were dedicated to working out, and supporting each other through the journey of motherhood.

Robinson soon found out that Salsa Babies was more than a weekly hour-long dance class.

“I initially took the class to get more in shape, and while the workout is great, it’s the support system that I’ve found in other moms that has been the highlight of the class” said Robinson.

Salsa Babies instructor, Joanna Waszkiewicz, says the classes are designed to provide a safe space for moms.

“You’re sleep-deprived and you feel like you’re going crazy. And all those emotions are mixed in with the fact you love your baby more than anything in the world. It’s easy to feel confused and overwhelmed.”

The classes often end with a community expert corner, where the women are encouraged to talk about the usual perils of motherhood, such as car seat safety and potty training. But they also discuss deeper subjects such as miscarriages and postpartum depression.

It’s these conversations and friendships that keep women from feeling lost in a world where everyone expects a new mom to smile.

“Motherhood is encompassing and relentless and it’s so easy to lose yourself,” Waszkiewics said.

“You’re sleep-deprived and you feel like you’re going crazy. And all those emotions are mixed in with the fact you love your baby more than anything in the world. It’s easy to feel confused and overwhelmed.”

Having a place to discuss that roller coaster ride is invaluable, and for some, like Robinson, it’s nearly therapeutic.

“Just the camaraderie has been so beneficial, physically but also emotionally,” Robinson said. “It really has given me such a sense of peace.”

More information on Salsa Babies can be found by visiting https://salsababies.com/.