From Exhausted to Empowered: My Postpartum Journey
- Holly Barnes
- Nov 19, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 14
Hello Beautiful Mumma,
Welcome to Radiance Nutrition, a space designed to nurture and support you through the incredible journey of motherhood. Whether you’re newly postpartum, navigating the challenges of raising a young family, or simply feeling depleted and disconnected from the vibrant, energetic woman you know you can be, you’re in the right place.

My name is Holly, and I’m a Nutritional Medicine Practitioner (BHSc) with a deep passion for helping women regain their radiance during the transformative period of motherhood. After graduating with my degree in Nutrition in 2020, I initially stepped away from nutrition work, returning to an office job to support my family. This time away from my field wasn’t easy—I often felt out of touch with the career I loved and deeply missed the sense of fulfillment that came from helping others. But as it turned out, this chapter gave me a unique perspective and shaped the path I’m on today.
In 2023, I became a mum to my beautiful daughter, Willow. Like many new mums, I went into motherhood excited and prepared—or so I thought. The reality was far more complex. After giving birth, which was a traumatic experience in itself, I experienced a wave of exhaustion and overwhelm that caught me completely off guard. Physically, I was depleted—my energy was non-existent, and my body felt like it was running on fumes. Emotionally, I found myself battling extremely low moods, frustration, and even moments of postpartum rage that left me questioning my ability to cope.
I quickly realised that the postpartum period is not just about recovering from birth—it’s about rediscovering yourself in a completely new role, all while your body is crying out for nourishment and rest. Like so many mums, I tried to push through, thinking I could "do it all" without asking for help or taking care of myself because "this is what mums are supposed to do, right?". But the truth is, I couldn’t—and I shouldn’t have had to.

That realisation changed everything. I began to draw on my knowledge as a nutritionist to rebuild my health from the ground up, focusing on foods and strategies that supported my recovery, energy, and mood. At the same time, I began to seek out community and tools to help me navigate the emotional demands of this season of life. Slowly, I started to feel more like myself again—stronger, more capable, and, most importantly, more connected to my daughter, my husband, and my new identity as a mum.
This personal journey has deeply influenced how I approach my work now. I understand the relentless demands of motherhood and the toll it takes when you’re trying to care for everyone else while feeling like there’s nothing left for yourself. I know the guilt, the frustration, and the sense of isolation that can come when you’re struggling—and I want you to know you’re not alone.

Here at Radiance Nutrition, my goal is to make your postpartum journey feel a little less overwhelming and a lot more supported. I’m passionate about providing realistic, evidence-based solutions that fit into your busy life, helping you feel nourished, energised, and empowered to thrive in your role as a mum.
Through this blog and the resources I’ll share here, you’ll find tips on everything from simple, nutrient-dense meals to advice on managing your energy and prioritising your well-being. This isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress and finding a balance that works for your family and your life.
I am so excited to be on this journey with you. Whether you're just discovering the importance of nutrition in motherhood or you're ready to prioritise your own care amidst the chaos, I’m here to walk alongside you.
If you’d like to connect or learn more, feel free to explore the website or reach out. I’d love to hear your story and learn how I can support you.
Here’s to rediscovering your strength, one meal, one moment at a time.
With love and care,
Holly
Nutritional Medicine Practitioner (BHSc) and Empowered Toddler Mumma, Radiance Nutrition