Zoe Saldana on post-baby bodies: Don’t hide out until you’re a size 0

Zoe Saldana got candid about slimming down after having a baby: It’s hard and there’s no need to rush it, she says.

The already slender “Guardians of the Galaxy� star, who welcomed twin sons with husband Marco Perego Saldana last November, has slimmed down since giving birth. But she went easy on herself in the beginning before hitting the gym to get red-carpet-ready.

In chats with People and Us Weekly on Thursday, the 37-year-old explained her outlook on the physical transformations that happen during and after pregnancy, sharing her personal journey so she could support women experiencing similar transformations.

So, here are a few takeaways from the actress:

1. It still hurts to wear heels: “It’s not just the weight you acquire — it’s also your nerves, your muscles. Everything hurts and feels uncomfortable. You have to give yourself time.�

2. Celebs who hide out until they’re a size 0 are misleading: “That should concern us. We’re too busy thinking about our appearances and not really thinking about our mental health first as well.�

3. Give yourself a break, your body will bounce back when its ready: “Breastfeed. Stay home. Sleep. Your kid is only 3 months old! Like what are you going to the gym for? Catch up on ... reruns of some sort!’�

The actress took to Facebook on Friday after making two public appearances on Thursday, gushing about the importance of self-care while being a full-time parent.

“what was fabulous about last night was that the ladies and I were able to have a date night with our partners,� she wrote. “Nothing beats getting dressed up and going out with the people you love and support. It’s a must.... we just realized that last night. We work way too much and are also full time parents. It is important to make time for yourselves and go out, or watch a movie or share with other parents and couples. It feeds the spirit.�

Follow me on Twitter @NardineSaad.