How do you create internet virality "from scratch?" For Nara Smith, it's a winning formula of elaborate recipes (with outfits to match), set to a soundtrack of smooth jazz and a signature soothing voiceover. Over the past several months, millions have tuned in to watch the South African and German model and content creator make everything from bagels, to body lotion, to bubblegum. (For what it's worth, she swears the latter two actually weren't that complicated to make.)
Needless to say, Nara has turned nourishment into an art form—and for her, it's also a "love language." Her recipe videos often begin with a wild request or craving from her toddlers or husband, model Lucky Blue Smith. In April, the couple welcomed their third child, a daughter named Whimsy Lou. Which for us, begged the question: Beneath the highlight reel of social media, how is she navigating the ups and downs of postpartum—and juggling it with her newfound internet fame, to boot?
We caught up with Nara while she settles into this new chapter. Read on to learn how she prioritizes her own self-care amidst the chaos—and how she leans on her village for support.
Perelel: Did anything surprise you about this third pregnancy, labor, or these first few weeks postpartum?
Nara Smith: This time around what surprised me was how rapidly my body recovered postpartum. It felt like it knew exactly what to do and did it. I love how different and unique each pregnancy is and how unpredictable each one is.
P: What have been some of the more challenging aspects of your postpartum experience that we don’t see on social media?
NS: The whole emotional side for sure! I’ve been on an emotional roller coaster and trying to find some footing. The first few weeks were very challenging and I’m slowly starting to move out of that. A lot of the time we prepare for pregnancy and labor, but the time that comes after is just as important to prepare for.
P: Can you tell us a bit about the support system you’ve leaned on during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum?
NS: It truly takes a village. Unfortunately, my family lives half way across the world so it’s not always easy—but they were able to be with us and were such a great help! My birthing team consisted of my husband and midwife (and assisting midwife). My husband has always been such an amazing partner all throughout pregnancy, birth (he actually delivered Whimsy!) and postpartum. Open communication has been so crucial for us and being vocal about what I need and want during this time.
P: You’re so intentional about how you nourish yourself and your family. Any go-to pregnancy and motherhood essentials you feel really meet these high standards—that you can’t make from scratch :)
NS: During pregnancy, I was craving a lot of fresh produce. Also I loved Greek yoghurt with passion fruit and some berries. As for essentials, I loved throwing on dresses, and a good loungewear set was so crucial after a long day chasing around toddlers.
P: Do you have a personal mantra for motherhood?
NS: I don’t necessarily have a mantra... but what I keep saying is that whatever comes up with the kids or work, I just do it! I’ve been in so many situations that seem hard and I don’t know how to make it through... but I do, every time. When something seems overwhelming or sometimes even impossible, I just tell myself that I’ll get it done somehow.
P: As moms, we have to take care of ourselves in order to take care of everyone else. What’s one non-negotiable thing you do just for yourself every day?
NS: Having a solid morning routine. Starting my day off right is so crucial and sets the tone for my day. I need to wake up and have a few minutes to myself doing my skin care, organizing my day and taking all my vitamins before taking care of other people.
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P: Your social media community has grown so much recently! How are you grappling with that newfound attention? How do you stay grounded with all this visibility?
NS: It’s been such a wild experience. I’ve loved seeing people gravitate towards my content and hearing all of their stories. Connecting with people has been such a fun thing that has come from this and I can’t wait for what’s to come. This is all new and I can’t wrap my head around it sometimes. I love inspiring people and feel so fortunate that I’m able to share parts of my life with my community.
Motherhood is a journey. Find support with other moms in your stage by joining our community, Village by Perelel on Geneva, or read more about nourishing your body postpartum.
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and we recommend that you always consult with your healthcare provider. To the extent that this article features the advice of physicians or medical practitioners, the views expressed are the views of the cited expert and do not necessarily represent the views of Perelel.
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