Kris Bernal: ‘Motherhood Gave Me More Than It Took’

Kris Bernal: Embracing Motherhood and Finding Peace at 35

Kris Bernal, the beloved actress and now first-time mom, is embracing a new chapter in her life—motherhood. Contrary to some perceptions on how motherhood chips away from a woman's self identity, for Kris, motherhood has been the key to finding herself and her peace.

3 Things Kris is Celebrating at 35

Celebrating her 35th birthday, Kris bared her truth in embracing motherhood. In a beautiful moment of vulnerability, the actress shared the three things that she’s focusing on right now: “myself, my baby, and my peace.”

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Kris opens up about her motherhood journey, transitioning from a busy and often jam-packed career. She says she’s “choosing me and my family first and picking my battles.” With confidence, she declares she’s in her fully pledged "mom era."

"I'm in my 'mom' era. That means mom life is my first priority. That means I've traded in my old life for my new one."

Although motherhood has flipped her life upside down, Kris acknowledges that she’s working on borrowed time, noting, “these days won't last forever, and I've prayed so hard to be where I am now.”

Kris and her husband, Perry Choi, welcomed their first child, a baby girl named Hailee Lucca, on August 15, 2023. The couple, who started as business partners, tied the knot in September 2021 and have been navigating the joys and challenges of parenthood ever since.

Kris' decision to become a stay-at-home mom (SAHM) is a testament to the profound impact motherhood can have on a woman's priorities and sense of self. "I know that I will never be the same person again. But, I can be better, wiser, stronger, and kinder," she shared.

Embracing Motherhood: A Transformative Journey

The transition to motherhood is often a profound and transformative experience. For many women, including Kris, it can mean a shift in priorities, a rediscovery of self, and a newfound sense of purpose.

"Motherhood has given me more than it has ever taken away," Kris shared. "My priorities, my worries, my interests, my boundaries. Motherhood has given me a purpose to leave behind the things that were no longer meant for me and that I gratefully outgrew."

This sentiment resonates with many stay-at-home moms who have chosen to prioritize their families over their careers. It's a decision often met with societal pressure and misconceptions, but Kris is determined to own her choice.

"I'm in my 'mom' era. That means mom life is my first priority. That means I've traded in my old life for my new one."  In a visualization of how her days are like now, Kris shares, "Late nights out for scrolling mom posts in bed. From pouring a glass of wine to pouring into my baby. Rocking tight jeans to joggers because that's all that fits me right now. Quiet nights for sleepless nights. Fine dining for finger foods. And, I'm owning it. I'm lovin' it. Because these days won't last forever, and I've prayed so hard to be where I am now."

Embracing the Changes and Challenges of Motherhood

Kris' journey to embracing motherhood has not been without its challenges. The actress has been open about the physical and emotional changes she's experienced, including the struggles with breastfeeding and the adjustments to her new lifestyle.

"Honestly, at first, I was afraid of gaining weight and not being fit," Kris admitted. "However, as my baby grew inside me, I learned to enjoy the process and loved my baby even more. It's all because of her," she said.

Kris' willingness to share her vulnerabilities and the realities of motherhood has resonated with many of her followers, who have expressed gratitude for her honesty and authenticity.

"This is a season of growth. This is normal. This is a part of the process. These are the results of a healthy baby girl growing inside of me. It's all so worth it!" Kris wrote.

Finding Balance and Peace in a New "Mom" Era

Kris' story is a reminder of the delicate balance many new mothers strive to achieve. Amidst the sleepless nights and constant demands of a newborn, finding moments of peace and self-care can be challenging. Yet, Kris emphasizes the importance of cherishing these fleeting moments.

"I've learned that it's okay to take things slow, to ask for help, and to be kind to myself," she says. "Motherhood is a journey, not a race, and every moment with my baby is a blessing."

Kris Bernal's journey into motherhood is not just about adapting to a new role but also about personal growth and embracing a new sense of self. As she navigates this new chapter, she continues to inspire and connect with her audience, showing that motherhood, with all its ups and downs, is a beautiful and transformative experience.

As Kris Bernal celebrates her 35th year, she stands as a testament to the strength, resilience, and joy that comes with motherhood. Her story is a beacon of hope and encouragement for new moms everywhere, reminding them that it's okay to embrace change, find peace in the chaos, and celebrate the journey of motherhood with an open heart.

Kris' journey is a powerful narrative of self-discovery, love, and the endless possibilities that come with embracing new roles in life. Here’s to Kris and all the moms out there, finding their peace and celebrating their unique journeys.