Postpartum Wellness, Weight Loss & Breastfeeding with Denise Gonzales

Postpartum isn’t just a physical recovery—it’s a full-body, whole-self transformation. In this powerful episode of the Strong & Nourished Momma Podcast, I sit down with Denise Gonzales, yoga teacher, entrepreneur, and mom of three, to talk honestly about what postpartum healing really looks like.

Denise opens up about her personal experiences navigating the postpartum season after each of her children, how her relationship with movement evolved, and the lessons she’s learned about patience, grace, and tuning into her body’s needs—especially while breastfeeding, managing weight changes, and chasing after little ones.

A Real Look at Postpartum Healing

Denise’s story is one so many moms will relate to. From juggling the pressure to “bounce back” to finding new rhythms through yoga and mindful movement, she brings wisdom and compassion to the often messy, beautiful postpartum journey.

We talk about:

  • The emotional and physical shifts that happen after baby
  • Letting go of the need to “do it all” during recovery
  • How yoga supported her healing—mentally and physically
  • Navigating breastfeeding, body image, and energy levels
  • What it means to show up fully as a mom and a business owner

Movement with Intention, Not Obligation

For Denise, yoga was more than just exercise—it was a tool for grounding, rebuilding, and reconnecting with herself after birth. Whether you’re brand new to yoga or looking to return to movement postpartum, her tips will help you approach exercise with grace, not guilt.

This episode reminds us that it’s okay to take things slow. Your body is recovering from something monumental, and healing looks different for everyone. There’s no one-size-fits-all timeline—and you deserve space to listen to your body and respond with compassion.

Meet Denise Gonzales

Denise is a powerhouse. With over 14 years of experience teaching at Blissful Spirits, she’s led yoga retreats, trainings, and events that bring people together in meaningful ways. She’s also the founder of a yoga teacher training program and runs a successful marketing and design business from home—all while being an intentional, present mama to her three kids.

Her story is a beautiful blend of movement, motherhood, and mission—and it’s one every mom can learn from.

Ready to Feel Seen and Supported in Your Postpartum Journey?

🎧 Tune in now to hear Denise’s story, get her practical advice, and walk away feeling inspired and supported as you navigate your own journey:
🎙️ Listen to the Full Episode Here

And don’t forget—postpartum is not a deadline. It’s a season. One full of strength, surrender, and rediscovering what it means to feel whole again.

Stay strong & nourished,
Val


Resources & Links:

🔗 Connect with Denise Gonzales: @yogaslife26

🔗 Join my Postpartum Core & Pelvic Floor Healing Program: https://bit.ly/postpartumcoreprogram 

Connect with Me!

📲 Follow me on Instagram @wellnessbyval_

📩 Join the Free Community of Mommas!

🎉 Become an Insider and get the Weekly Newsletter!

👉 If you loved this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow mom who needs support on her postpartum journey!

WHAT’S NEXT:

Sign up for my ONLINE program to heal your core and diastasis recti postpartum! It’s 100% self-paced and you will walk about with exercises that you can do that don’t take long and that help you heal postpartum! No more diastasis recti, worrying how you’ll look or feel or hurting your low back from picking up your toddler. Join today!

Are you looking for a space to connect with like-minded women, stay motivated, and get fresh ideas to live a healthier, stronger life? Then I want to personally invite you to join our Happy, Healthy, and Strong Community, completely free!

In the community, you’ll be able to connect with other amazing moms, share your wins, and get support on your wellness journey. Whether you’re looking for fun and effective workout routines or tips for nutritious meals that are easy to make for the whole family, we’ve got you covered! Join the Free Community!

Also, become an insider and you’ll also get the latest podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox, along with exclusive content on boosting your energy, staying motivated, and making healthy choices even on the busiest days. Sign up at https://wellnessbyval.kit.com/insider 

It’s time to prioritize YOU, mama! So, what are you waiting for? Join the community and sign up for my weekly newsletter—let’s crush those health goals together.

learn more

I’m Val—New Mexico native, licensed Registered Dietitian, board-certified Sports Dietitian, certified personal trainer, and momma to one sweet baby girl. I created Wellness by Val to help busy women, especially postpartum moms, feel strong, nourished, and truly supported through every season of life.

With a background in Exercise Science, Nutrition, and Functional Medicine, plus certifications in pregnancy and postpartum coaching, I bring a science-backed, balanced approach to health—and a whole lot of real-life experience.

I believe movement is a gift, not a punishment. That pizza is always worth loving. And that women deserve to feel good in their bodies—no matter how full their plates are (literally and figuratively).

Whether you’re navigating postpartum recovery, rebuilding your strength, or just trying to eat better without stress, I’m here to walk alongside you. Let’s make wellness simple, sustainable, and even a little fun.

Meet Val

Functional Sports RD + Postpartum Specialist