When you have a baby, you temporarily lose your identity. I was the first of my friends to be a mother and I found it incredibly tough constantly seeing photos of them out and about in skimpy tops and lovely summer dresses when I was massively lacking in body confidence. Things really changed when I began working out - I was suddenly taking control of my body again and with that, the anxiety started to ease.
Now I go to F45 for a high-intensity cardio session every morning at 9:30, four to five times a week and if I’m not there, I’m doing an hour long session at the gym on my own. I appreciate my body so much more since having India and I’m now the strongest I’ve ever been and don’t feel the need to put myself down. I’m not a health freak though, I do believe it’s all about the balance. Last night I was up for hours with India and feel exhausted today so I’m allowing myself to enjoy a few chocolate Easter eggs. Balance is so important, particularly when you’re a fairly new mummy.
When I became a parent, I was quite relaxed. I think knowing too much can be a bad thing because there is no such thing as a perfect guide to follow, everyone is doing the best they can do. Nothing annoys me more than people who sit behind a computer screen and express their opinions on something so personal as motherhood - I’d love to name and shame because my fans are so supportive. I don’t think you should ever butt in on someone’s parenting style.
When I get trolled on social media, it’s mainly about India. I once uploaded a picture of her sitting on the pavement on holiday and someone said she shouldn’t be sat on the floor because it’s dirty. What an idiot! If I wasn’t as strong as I am, I could take that personally and let it really upset me but the best thing to do is laugh it off. India is a proper country girl because I take her to the country most weekends where she’s always messing around in muddy fields and probably eating something bizarre - it’s normal for kids to get grubby. It’s how I was brought up and I’m definitely stronger as a result. A child’s personality is certainly shaped by how you are as a parent and I think being neurotic and always jumping up to stop her doing things would completely change her personality and it would also drive me totally mad.
I think it’s important to carve out time for just you, too. India is at nursery twice a week and I regularly use an app called Bubble that sends someone around to look after your child within half an hour. They’ll stay for as long as you need and it’s proved to be godsend when I’ve had a last-minute meeting or just need an hour to get things done. Every sitter is screened through an online ID check, a background check and all are insured as standard which gives me peace of mind that India is in safe hands.
Every week I like to get a spray tan and get my hair done – when you have a good tan and great hair, you’re all set to go and it makes me feel like ‘me’ again. I couldn’t live without dry shampoo - I get through endless amounts during the week (gym sweat is never a good look for the hair) but tend to keep my face makeup-free unless I’m going out or have meetings.
Binky’s new jewellery range with Philippa Herbert, Alexandra Felstead & Philippa Herbert, will be launching on Mother's Day
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