From Anxiety to Joy: Karina Smirnoff's Path to Motherhood
Before her son Theo was born in April, Karina Smirnoff, a beloved pro from "Dancing With the Stars," found herself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions. As the date of Theo’s arrival grew closer, Karina admitted she was experiencing significant anxiety about becoming a mom. To help navigate the challenges, she made the decision to move back in with her parents for support. Since then, she's been in quarantine with her family, learning the ropes of motherhood one step at a time.
Overcoming Fears About Parenthood
For Karina, the prospect of becoming a mom was both thrilling and terrifying. "I love babies," she told Us Weekly on May 28, "but when I would visit friends with newborns, and they'd hand the baby to me, I’d freeze. I’d think, 'How do I even hold this tiny human?' I had no idea how to pick them up, change a diaper, or anything else. It was overwhelming." She shared her fears openly, explaining that while everyone reassured her it would come naturally, the uncertainty still weighed heavily on her mind.
View this post on InstagramWelcome to the world Theo Gabriel! 💖💖💖
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Adjusting to Life with Parents Amidst a Global Crisis
With the added stress of the coronavirus pandemic, Karina decided moving back home was the best decision for her and her growing family. However, adjusting to life under the same roof as her parents wasn’t without its challenges. "It’s a whole new set of skills," she admitted. "Living with your parents as an adult is a different dynamic. You’re constantly together, 24/7, in close quarters. But honestly, I couldn’t have done it without them. They’ve been absolutely incredible."
Managing Stress in Quarantine
To keep her stress levels in check, Karina developed some go-to strategies. "Every now and then, I take a moment to breathe and center myself," she explained. "Music is also a lifesaver. If things get overwhelming, I’ll lock myself in a room, crank up my favorite tunes, and just let the music transport me somewhere else. When I come back out, I feel refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes next."
Growing Confidence as a Mom
Spending so much time at home has helped Karina grow more confident in her role as a mom. "If I’m not feeding Theo, I’m changing him. If I’m not changing him, I’m feeding him," she joked during a May 1 interview with Anna Trebunskaya. "And those farts? Oh, they’re legendary. When he lets one rip, the whole family looks at me, and I have to clarify—it’s him, not me!" Despite the challenges, Karina says Theo has brought immeasurable joy into her life.
