First-time mom + runner… struggling with the changes

Hi everyone, I’m a first-time mom and running has always been a huge part of my life, so this transition has been harder mentally than I expected.

I used to run consistently and it was my way of clearing my head, but lately everything just feels different. My pace is slower, I get tired way faster, and my body just doesn’t feel like my own anymore. Even my chest feels heavier/uncomfortable when I run, which I wasn’t really prepared for.

I know logically this is all normal, but it’s still frustrating and honestly a little emotional. Running used to make me feel strong and in control, and now I feel like I’m constantly adjusting or holding back.

For anyone who ran during pregnancy, how did you handle this shift? Did you keep running the whole time or switch to something else? And does it start to feel more “normal” again at any point?

I’d really appreciate hearing other experiences because I feel a little alone in this right now