Hart of Dixie star Jaime King is no stranger to the spotlight. A model before her acting career took off, King graced the pages of A-list fashion magazines from Vogue to Harper's Bazaar.
Now that her TV series has ended and she's become a mom, the talented beauty is taking a stab at a dream that's closer to home: designing a collection of baby clothes for Sapling Child, an organic clothing line. It's a fitting pursuit since she and husband Kyle Newman, a film director, have a 1-year-old son, James Knight, and a baby due this summer.
Here, King reveals how pregnancy taught her to celebrate life, family, and her body -- and to let perfection go.
How do you feel about being pregnant?
It's such a sacred thing. For those 9 months, it's just you and your baby. It's so wonderful to have that connection. It's really profound and fun. Even when you're vomiting and you feel exhausted or irritable, it's always a joyful day.
Did you feel the same way during your first pregnancy?
Yes. I have severe endometriosis and PCOS [polycystic ovary syndrome], so getting pregnant was a challenge. There are certain things about endometriosis that are challenging, like bad cramps, heavy bleeding, and all these things that aren't sexy to talk about. I feel it's very important that it's not taboo for other women who have these diseases. That's why I'm open about it and also why I love pregnancy so much.
You have a husband, a toddler, a baby on the way, acting gigs, and a new fashion collection. How do you stay balanced?
My No. 1 thing is meditation. There was a book I read when I was 19 years old that totally changed my life. It's called Spiritual Warrior. It teaches you about meditation in an active way. No matter what, you can find 10 minutes. And walking -- I love walking. That's a great activity if you're a busy parent. Being active doesn't have to mean schlepping to the gym and judging yourself because you don't want to go. You can get out and go for a 15-minute walk and enjoy the fresh air.
What's your favorite family activity?
The simple moments. I love it when we go to our favorite coffee shop. We get our coffees and get James a snack or treat, then walk out and right there is the library. Next to the library is an incredible park. It's the best of every world. It's time for the three of us, as a unit, to be together and bond.
Find more articles, browse back issues, and read the current issue of "WebMD Magazine."
