Meet our featured beauty with brains Suprava Nayak Sachdeva, a new mum, HR consultant and social worker, based in Sydney (Australia). Here is her story:
“I am Suprava, mum to a cheeky naughty boy and wife to a very supportive husband. I moved to Sydney from India around two years ago but it seems like I have been here for ages, thanks to my family and friends.
I’m of mix culture, Oriya (belonging to the Indian state of Odisha) by birth but born and raised in Mumbai (city in the Indian state of Maharashtra), and fell in love and got married to a Punjabi (belonging to the Indian state of Punjab) guy.
I did my MBA in HR and worked here in the telecom industry. I learnt many personnel aspects like dealing with people’s mindset, etiquette, cultures, values, beliefs etc. I have also done a Diploma in ‘Early Childhood’. I give free counselling to people who need it. I love coffee dates with my friends, shopping, travelling etc. I have participated in many events and festivals here. I was the winner of the ‘Bride of Australia’ pageant in 2016. I recently started a Ladies club called S.H.E (Society of Harmony & Empowerment) which organises events and is involved in social causes.
I feel that being yourself is one of the hardest things because it’s scary. You always wonder whether you’ll be accepted for who you really are. ‘Inside Out’ – that’s my motto about life. I don’t think you ever succeed at trying to be anyone else but who you truly are.
We asked her some questions on the challenges faced by new mums.
1. What is your advice to new mums who often get depressed and anxious trying to do several things at once like caring for the baby, keeping the house clean, losing weight etc?
My advice to all new mums is KISS – Keep it simple and sweet. The most important thing is to focus on the positive, to see your baby grow. Enjoy how much they are attached to you and how they need your care and affection. Think how their cute smile melts your heart and how they depend on you for everything like feeding, nappy change etc. Its important to focus on the fact that no one can substitute you (the mother) in your baby’s life.
Now talking about household chores, gadgets are there to help you so take your time and do it one by one.
Stress can become a barrier between you and your baby and can prevent bonding between you both so try not to let it affect you too much.
Regarding losing weight, first 3-4 months try to eat healthy and go for walks with your baby. Walking is the best exercise to lose weight initially. Then once your baby is a bit more grown up, you can hit the gym. Go for coffee with friends, stroll in a park or near lakes, do yoga or meditate for a few minutes. Remember you are the best no matter what.
2. New mums often don’t have much time for fashion and makeup. Do you have any quick and easy fashion and beauty tips for them?
Doing a full face makeup is a Big No as you won’t have the time to do nor maintain it. Use simple products which are easy to put on like a good primer, cushion foundation and a nude coloured lipstick. Rub a little Vaseline near your cheek bones, on the tip of your nose and on your collar bone to accentuate them. Put on a nice perfume which will make you feel good.
3. The challenges of bringing up a baby often cause friction between a couple. How do you think they can be minimised and resolved?
Yes that does happen as the new addition to the family takes most of our time, energy and even bed. Share the responsibilities and do small things together like the laundry or changing the bedsheets or feeding the baby. Try to cook food and eat together. Understand that each of you is going through a change so respect that. Both of you will get tired equally. Sometimes a little gesture like saying “I Love You” to your partner works wonders.
4. New mums are often conscious of their curves and tummies. Any dressing advice for them?
You are a mum and that gives you the right to shop even more now. You have got the curves and the marks of a lioness, so just flaunt it. Go for spa, manicure and hair treatment. Keep your clothes simple and convenient as you might need to undress during breastfeeding. A good dress, good sensible shoes and a nappy bag is enough.
I generally like to wear a knee length dress or a skater dress or maxi gowns depending on the occasion and weather. Good shoes are a must as after pregnancy you tend to get swollen feet or tired legs. If you feel like wearing heels, wedges or platforms are good. comfort should be your topmost priority. Carry a stylish nappy bag. Walk with your chin up and be confident. Remember being simple is the ultimate sophistication.
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