If you’ve yet to take one of her Peloton classes or aren’t among the half a million who follow along on social, allow us to introduce you to Callie Gullickson—fitness instructor, author, and mom of two, now a few months into life with her daughter Codie and her two-year-old, Cash.

We caught up with Callie to talk second-time postpartum, the reality of two kids age two and under, and how she’s approaching this season with confidence, flexibility, and grace.

You’re just a few months into life with Codie. What has postpartum been like for you so far?

I have to say this time I feel more confident and not as uptight. It has allowed me to truly enjoy this newborn phase with the reassurance that I did this once before and I can do it again.

How has the transition to life as a mom of two felt?

As of right now I feel like it’s easier but check back in with me once Codie takes less naps and gets more mobile. I have tried to stick to the routine we had going with my toddler so it doesn’t feel too different besides double the diapers and way less sleep!

What’s been different about this postpartum experience compared to your first?

This time I feel like my body has recovered a lot quicker which is nice however the newborn bubble pops a lot sooner with a toddler running around. Silly me thought I’d be glued to my bed a lot longer binging all the shows but in comparison to my first postpartum I’m a lot more active. I guess that’s how it works once you have more than one child ha!

How has Cash adjusted to becoming a big brother?

We’ve had our ups and downs! He was very interested at first, then definitely felt some feelings once he realized she was staying and now a month in I can say he has adjusted a lot better. When Codie cries he likes to sing to her and it is just the most adorable thing to witness.

Movement is such a big part of your life and career. How are you approaching rest and recovery in this postpartum season?

I am finding the time even if it’s limited, just like I did during pregnancy. A self care shower with some jazz music playing, a walk with my golden retriever Charly or a mocktail and an episode of Love Is Blind all counts. This time I had two wonderful doulas come twice within the first month to prepare nourishing food and get some bodywork done which is something I didn’t do the first time around. I couldn’t recommend that type of service more. 

Has your relationship with movement shifted since welcoming Codie? 

Shifted in the sense I have to really show up and make the time, yes. I’ve been doing my pelvic floor exercises and will soon be cleared to get back into working out which I know will be slow and steady. Moving my body just does so much for my mental health and my confidence so I’m excited to get back into it. I know my routine is going to shift so much especially within the first year but I will eventually find consistency. Knowing I will get there, I’m feeling much more at ease as I approach my return back to movement with no expectations.

What would you want other moms to hear about giving themselves grace with their bodies after birth?

As women we put so much pressure on ourselves to “snapback” or return to our pre-baby weight/size. Two things I do that help: 1. I don’t try to fit into my pre-pregnancy clothes. I purchase a few new basics that I feel good in. 2: I don’t weigh myself. Postpartum is a time when we should focus on feeling good versus looking good. Let’s face it—we’ll never like what we see in the mirror if we aren’t feeling our best. I always find the motivation to feel my best (aka getting in movement, hydrating and fueling with nourishing food) by doing it not just for me, but for my family and showing up the best I can for them. Also, if you grew and birthed a baby you most certainly can get to a body and headspace where you feel your most strongest and confident self. It takes time but you can and you will get there! 

Are there any small rituals or moments in your day that are helping you feel like yourself during these early weeks?

Finding little moments of self care through all the chaos such as putting  on eye patches, sitting in silence with a warm cup of coffee or ordering a meal I’ve been craving have helped me feel like myself.

What does a typical day look like in your home right now?

I wake up and babywear Codie while I take Cash through his morning routine before Chris takes him to daycare. As of this week I then take Charly on a walk with Codie in the stroller for some morning sunshine. The rest of the morning/early afternoon consists of some tidying up, a nap possibly, slowly easing back into work with my partnerships and watching an episode of something until Cash gets home. Then I’m doing activities with Cash and Codie until dinner time with the family, followed up with some playtime outside and then the bedtime routine starts.

What are a few baby products you’re reaching for constantly these days?

I love the Solly Wrap especially for these newborn days and it has been a lifesaver when wanting to play with Cash but also hold Codie. I love loungers for Codie when I need to set her down and now that I’ve added girl mom to my bio I am loving putting her in all the bow headbands! SO CUTE!

When do you find yourself reaching for a baby carrier most these days?

In the morning when I am getting Cash ready for the day, throughout the day when I’m getting work done or have things to do around the house. Currently have Codie in the Solly Wrap now so I can use two hands to type this haha

What advice would you give moms who want to keep moving during pregnancy or with little ones at home?

Something is better than nothing! Moving your body will look different but once you surrender and accept that you will become a multitasking self care queen! Give yourself grace and remember your why!

Rapid-fire Q’s:

Favorite mocktail right now: my glowing green from my mocktail book
Current comfort show: Desperate Housewives
Last thing you ordered online: Toys for Cash's water table haha
Mom uniform these days: lululemon hotty hot shorts with a baggy graphic tee
Pre-bedtime snack: Oh I’ve been loving honey mamas and smart sweets
A word that describes this season of life: growth