Losing weight post-pregnancy is something women often struggle with and getting their bodies back to a shape or size they’re comfortable with can be a challenge
For actress Danielle Brooks, who gave birth to her first child, daughter Freeya, in November 2019, it’s been a very emotional journey. Brooks is opening up about her struggles with losing weight after her pregnancy, sharing the shame she felt when the pounds didn’t come off easily and how she’s growing through the experience. In a powerful Instagram post, Brooks shared a nude portrait of herself in black and white where she proudly displays her curves.
“As someone who coined the phrase #voiceofthecurves I’ve muted my voice for a few months now out of shame,” Brooks wrote in the captions. “I felt shameful of gaining weight. Even though I brought a whole human into the world, I still felt shameful because I wasn’t able to maintain my normal body weight post-pregnancy. And a year later I have only lost roughly 20lbs of a 60lb weight gain. I was quiet in hopes to post that snatch back photo like so many celebrities miraculously do. But that’s not my story.”
In addition to being honest about her own experience with shame, Brooks voiced her support for her fellow sister-in-curves, Lizzo, who was recently shamed by fans for sharing that she’s been focused on her health and diet.
“Just like Lizzo, and so many other ‘fat’ girls we should be allowed to make healthy choices publicly without being made to feel like frauds for trying to be healthy,” Brooks continued. “I feel it’s important to share the journey, as a reminder that we are not alone, we ain’t always got it together, and that we are ALL works in progress. So I’m sharing.”
Brooks is still on her wellness journey and committed to taking the best care of herself and living well.
“I’m doing all kinds of diets, cleanses, making all kinds healthy choices. Not because I don’t love myself now, but because I DO love myself, my body and my mind,” Brooks shared in the caption. “Bc I want to continue to feel strong and sexy without catching ‘the sugars’ or any other disease. It’s okay showing the in between of growth. You ain’t always gotta have it all the way together. Just speaking from the heart.~Danie.”
Brooks authenticity and honesty resonated with her fans and celebrity friends who voiced their support in the comments.