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Melons, puppies, the girls – Whatever you’ve nicknamed the twins (fraternal, of course), they’re the star of today’s blog.

Boobs – They’re fascinating, aren’t they? Coming in all different shapes and sizes, they’re both physically appealing and source of nourishment. Whether you’ve birthed and breastfed multiple babes or you haven’t even thought about having one yet, your breasts are part of your body regardless and it’s so important to show them some love! Trust me, there’s nothing like a year of pregnancy/breastfeeding that will show you how much they need it!

why they’re amazing

Breasts are made up of glandular tissue (what produces milk while nursing), fatty tissue, and contacts blood vessels, lymph vessels, and lymph nodes. Their unique shape comes from the connective tissue and ligaments that support them, while their size is dependent on the amount of fatty tissue stored in them. Since we are all built differently, it’s no surprise that our breasts are too!

They go through a ton of changes from the time they start developing as you kick off puberty, to your first trimester of pregnancy (when breasts changes are often one of the first signs of the growing baby inside), throughout your nursing/postpartum journey as they produce milk to meet your little one’s needs, and finally after you have weaned when they happily retire to (almost) their preconception size until next time. Needless to say, when you’re a nursing momma your girls are truly in their element and are total powerhouses!

Showing them love

As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, being pregnant isn’t a prerequisite for taking extra care of your breasts. Just like your hair, skin, and nails, they are part of your body which means they also need attention! Not only is pampering them fun *wink*, but it’s very simple to do.

• TLC Tip #1: Give Them A Massage! Find a high quality oil or lotion in your hands and gently massage your breasts, focusing on how they feel. This is helpful for three reasons; one being if you are pregnant keeping your easily dried skin moisturized will cut down on the itchiness and possibly cut down on the stretch marks associated, another being if you exercise regularly this will help relax your muscles promoting healing and strength, and finally it’s important to give yourself regular breast exams to stay on top of any potential issues. Don’t worry, it sounds more daunting than it really is! This article explains how to comfortably give yourself an exam at home.

• TLC Tip #2: CHECK YOUR BRA. The majority of women are wearing the wrong bra size which can cause problems down the road, especially with your posture and nursing! Budget a splurge amount for a good bra, go get professionally fitted, and invest in at least two quality bras that are both comfy and fun to wear! I’ve heard arguments in support (pun intended) and against wearing bras, but I personally don’t believe in a “perfect” bra for all women, since our breasts are so unique to each of us. No bra, or lack thereof, which completely prevent sagging. We age, our bodies change, this is life and it’s natural. The best thing you can do for your breasts is to simply take care of them!

My Fave TLC Products

You guys know I enjoy sharing the things I love with you and this is no exception! These are some of my favorite goodies for your goodies! *smile*

• For Pregnancy: Glow Organics Belly Butter (It can also be used on your breasts or any area being affected by dry skin. There are zero chemical ingredients and the smell is pleasant!)

• For Postpartum: Bamboobies Washable Nursing Pads (Made from bamboo fibers, they are so. dang. soft. and absorbent!), Kindred Bravely Nursing & Sleep Bra, ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Nursing Bra

• For Everyday: Chantelle (Responsible for my favorite bra – A lacy piece with no padding and underwire for the perfect amount of support, breathability, and fun!)

Showing your breasts some extra TLC isn’t difficult or very time consuming. With the exception of a good bra, you don’t have to buy any fancy and crazy expensive products to keep them healthy! When you take care of yourself, you start to see yourself differently and truly appreciate your body for the temple that it is. Your breasts don’t have to be perfectly round grapefruits for you to be attractive or healthy – or to love yourself. Enjoy and embrace them (literally) in every stage of life!

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional and am writing this from a place of opinion and personal experience. If you have any health concerns or are planning to make any major changes in your lifestyle, please be sure to consult your primary care physician.