Background: Photographer, yoga teacher and social media manager that travels in her self-built camper "Pumpkin the Van".
You recently welcomed your baby, congratulations! How are you feeling?
It is a mixture of an exploding heart full of love and exhaustion.
Ella in 24/7 bra and Once-on-never-off leggings
What were some tools you used to prepare for birth and now that you’re on the other side, did they help?
I prepared mentally. I've been doing yoga and meditation for a few years now and also prepared with special meditations for giving birth in a meditative state. That definitely helped to stay relaxed during pregnancy and birth, although I couldn't even use my prepared meditations during labor, because it all went pretty fast...
Can you tell us about your pregnancy wardrobe and which pieces you’re carrying over into your postpartum journey?
I'm still wearing my pregnancy pants and leggings. I especially love the merino wool leggings and the OONO wide pants from Boob ;) And of course those comfy 24/7 bras!
Ella in peachy maternity dress.
How would you describe your birthing process in three words?
Strong, intense, empowering!
Becoming a new mom and caring for a newborn is full of so many emotions. What are some self-care rituals you’ve put in place or plan to put in place?
Definitely meditating, although I haven't really gotten to that yet ;) And I try to schedule some me-time every week where I am alone for a bit of time to either sleep or just do something just for myself.
Ella in BFF sweatshirt
Looking back on it, what's one surprising thing you've learned about yourself (or life) during your pregnancy?
I really learned to love my body a lot more. I never felt uncomfortable in it, but now I have the utmost respect and love for all female bodies. They are a miracle and can do everything just by themselves if you just trust and let them.
We love the concept of vanlife, showcasing that you can live well without living large. Can you tell us more about #pumpkinthevan and how you came to embrace road life for part of the year?
I learned about living in a van while traveling in Australia at 18 years old. Me and my friend had a station wagon back then, and when I had enough money I decided to convert a small VW T5 into a camping bus. And since then my lovely pumpkin and I have traveled to many places in Europe, more to come ;)
Ella and "Pumpkin the Van".
Yoga is a big part of your identity. Has that shifted since welcoming your baby?
Yes, I definitely don't have enough time for a very long yoga session anymore, haha! But that will change as the little one gets older. Also, my body still has to fully recover until I'm able to practice the same way as before, and it's important not to rush it, so I prefer a slower and softer practice until then.
For me, it is a big part of life. I try to do small things here and there, in every aspect of life, from clothes to food, furniture and now also to baby clothing and hygiene.
Ella in Amelia jumpsuit
Do you see any similarities with yoga and living a more sustainable life?
Yoga teaches you to live more consciously, reflect your choices and treat your surroundings with love and compassion. And sustainability is compassion for the earth and all living beings. So yes, absolutely!
What do you hope to pass on to your child?
Oh, so many things! But mostly trusting oneself and taking oneself seriously, with all the emotions and feelings there are. From there it'll all be easy.
Ella in La la dress
Favorite places to visit?
I'll name 3 that I really love:
1. Gorge du Verdon in France, preferably in autumn.
2. Portugal in a campervan, it's a great hippie life there!
3. Venice, but without a map and a guide. It's the perfect place to get lost and find cute spots.
Last, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to expectant or new moms?
Relax and trust your instinct and feelings. Our bodies and babies know what to do.
Read about other moms we love here!