There was a time when I found myself sitting on my couch, staring at the wall, numbly watching my toddler play while I held my baby. I didn't have the energy to get up and play with my little girl, I didn't have the motivation to clean the house, and I was wondering why I wasn't enjoying anything I used to. After a few weeks of that, I faced the realization that this wasn't normal. I started doing some research into what I could do to help myself, and I learned some pretty profound things. As I walked out of the fog of numb sadness, I could finally feel again. I was able to play with my kids, smile, and enjoy life again.
Welcoming a new life into the world is undoubtedly one of the most profound experiences a woman can go through. There is nothing like it! However, the postpartum period, often glamorized in media, can also be a time of significant emotional challenges. Overwhelm, sleepless nights, hormone fluctuations, and several other things play a role in how we feel. Postpartum depression (PPD) affects many new mothers, and while seeking professional help is crucial for severe cases, milder forms which tend to be more common and include overwhelm and sadness can often be alleviated through natural remedies and lifestyle changes. In this blog post, we'll explore a range of natural remedies that can help support mothers experiencing feeling down after baby, from essential oils and yoga to dietary adjustments and more.
1. Dietary Changes:
Paying attention to your diet can have a significant impact on your mood and overall well-being. Focus on consuming whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts& seeds, and healthy fats. Minimize intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, and caffeine, which can exacerbate mood swings and energy fluctuations. Increase your water intake and try this antioxidant. (This made a huge difference in my energy and motivation levels)
2. Yoga, Mindfulness, and Prayer:
Practicing yoga, mindfulness meditation, and prayer can help calm the mind and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Gentle yoga poses, combined with deep breathing exercises and meditation, can promote relaxation and improve mood. Consider joining a postpartum yoga class or following online tutorials tailored for new mothers. I had never tried yoga before, and this was surprisingly beneficial for me!
3. Deep Breathing Exercises:
Deep breathing techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing or belly breathing, can help activate the body's relaxation response and reduce stress. Take a few moments throughout the day to practice deep breathing exercises, focusing on slow, deep inhalations and exhalations.
4. Vitamin D:
Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to depression, so ensuring adequate intake of this essential nutrient is important for overall mental health. Spend time outdoors every day in natural sunlight, eat foods rich in vitamin D such as fatty fish, and consider taking a vitamin D supplement if recommended by your healthcare provider. This multivitamin includes Vitamin D.
5. Folate Instead of Folic Acid:
Folate is a B vitamin that plays a crucial role in neurotransmitter synthesis and mood regulation. Some studies suggest that folate may be more beneficial than folic acid, especially for individuals with certain genetic variations like MTHFR. Incorporate folate-rich foods such as leafy greens, lentils, and citrus fruits into your diet, and consider opting for a methylfolate supplement if appropriate. This multivitamin includes Folate.
6 Zinc:
Zinc plays a crucial role in neurotransmitter function and has been associated with improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression. Include zinc-rich foods such as lean meats, poultry, seafood, nuts, seeds, and whole grains in your diet. Alternatively, consult with your healthcare provider about incorporating a multivitamin with zinc if necessary.
7. Magnesium:
Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including those related to mood regulation and stress management. Consuming magnesium-rich foods such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains can help support overall mental health. Additionally, consider taking a multivitamin with magnesium if recommended by your healthcare provider.
8. DHA & EPA:
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), play a vital role in brain health and function. These fatty acids have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and support overall mental well-being. Incorporate sources of omega-3s such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts into your diet. Consider taking a high-quality supplement rich in DHA and EPA, especially if you do not consume fish regularly.
9. Iron:
Iron deficiency has been linked to depressive symptoms, fatigue, and low energy levels. Consuming iron-rich foods such as lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, and spinach, can help prevent iron deficiency and support overall energy levels and mood. If you're concerned about iron levels, discuss with your healthcare provider about testing and potential supplementation.
10. Essential Oils:
Aromatherapy can be a powerful tool for promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, bergamot, and ylang-ylang are known for their calming properties. Diffuse these oils in your home, add a few drops to a warm bath, or dilute them with a carrier oil for a soothing massage. Ylang Ylang and a blend called Joy were my life-savers after baby number 6. I applied the Joy directly over my heart and on my hands to inhale. I used some powerful mantras with it as well. This helped me feel joy again. It was a game-changer.
11. Wild Yam:
Wild yam is known to help support the hormones and help you feel more balanced. I love this serum! It is pretty amazing to me what a difference this makes - I still use it because if keeps my mood even all month long.
12. Support the Adrenals:
Sometimes our adrenals exhausted and need support. This was definitely the case for me. My adrenal cocktail recipe is:
4 oz Ningxia Red
4 oz Orange Juice
4 oz coconut water
1 squirt YL vitality drops + electrolytes
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
12. Social Support:
Surrounding yourself with supportive friends, family members, and fellow mothers can provide invaluable emotional support during the postpartum period. Joining a new moms' group, attending support meetings, or seeking the guidance of a therapist or counselor can help you feel less isolated and more connected. At first, I couldn't even get dressed to make myself presentable in public, but after a little time in using these other things, I was able to make myself get out of the house. Meeting up with other moms was a piece I had been missing and I needed it! Also, ask for help. I remember others saying to me, "if there's anything I can do to help, let me know!" Yet, I didn't always ask them to come help. There are so many of us - myself included - that just don't want to bother someone else. ASK! Especially when someone has offered, it is not a bother. You are worth it. Let your friends and family help support you. They want to do it.
13. Self-Care Practices:
Prioritize self-care activities that nurture your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Make time for activities you enjoy, whether it's reading a book, taking a leisurely walk, practicing a hobby, or simply resting when you need to. Remember that taking care of yourself is essential for taking care of your baby. Let's get practical with this one. Make sure to take a shower/bath when your spouse is home so you actually get one! Read a book while you breastfeed. Start a stroller brigade and walk your baby around the neighborhood with other moms. You CAN do this!
Navigating the challenges of postpartum life can be overwhelming, but by incorporating natural remedies and lifestyle changes into your routine, you can take proactive steps toward well-being. Remember to be patient with yourself, reach out for help when needed, and celebrate the small victories along the way. You are not alone, and with time and support, you will emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.
Disclaimer: This is not intended as medical advice. Please contact your medical provider, if needed. If you are having suicidal thoughts, dial 988 for immediate help.
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Halloween is a time of excitement, costumes, and treats. For moms who prefer to offer plant-based alternatives to their kids, there are plenty of creative options that can make Halloween just as enjoyable and wholesome. Here are some fantastic recipes for healthy and fun plant-based Halloween snacks that your kids will love.
Spooky Banana Ghosts
- Bananas
- dark chocolate chips
- raisins
Instructions:
- Peel the bananas and cut them in half.
- Using chocolate chips, press two into each banana to create eyes.
- Take one chocolate chip or raisin and place it below the eyes to form a mouth, resembling a ghost's face.
- Arrange the spooky banana ghosts on a platter and let your kids enjoy these charming and healthy treats.
Frankenstein Avocado Toast
- Whole wheat bread slices, toasted
- Ripe avocados
- Lime juice
- Salt
- Black sesame seeds or sliced black olives
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
- Mash the ripe avocados in a bowl and add a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt for flavor.
- Spread the avocado mixture onto the toasted bread slices.
- Use black sesame seeds or sliced black olives to create Frankenstein's eyes and mouth on the avocado toast.
- Place a halved cherry tomato on top to resemble Frankenstein's hair.
- Serve the Frankenstein avocado toast as a spooky and nutritious Halloween snacks.
Jack-o'-Lantern Veggie Sticks
- Assorted vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and celery
- Hummus or your favorite plant-based dip
Instructions:
- Cut the vegetables into stick shapes, ensuring they are long enough to be easily held by little hands.
- Arrange the vegetable sticks on a platter to resemble a pumpkin's face, creating eyes, a nose, and a mouth.
- Fill a small bowl with plant-based hummus or dip and place it in the center of the platter.
- Let your kids enjoy the crunchy and vibrant Jack-o'-Lantern veggie sticks with their favorite dip.
Monster Apple Teeth:
- Green apples
- Natural peanut butter or almond butter
- Slivered almonds
Instructions:
- Slice the green apples into thin wedges, removing the core and seeds.
- Spread a layer of natural peanut butter or almond butter on one side of each apple slice.
- Place slivered almonds onto the peanut butter or almond butter, creating the appearance of "monster teeth."
- Assemble the monster apple teeth on a plate and watch your kids delight in these playful and healthy Halloween snacks.
With these plant-based alternatives, you can make Halloween both delicious and nutritious for your little ones. Whether it's spooky banana ghosts, Frankenstein avocado toast, Jack-o'-Lantern veggie sticks, or monster apple teeth, these recipes will provide your kids with fun and satisfying treats while promoting a plant-based lifestyle. By offering these healthy options, you can ensure that Halloween remains a festive and enjoyable experience for the whole family. Happy Halloween!
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Any purchase made is a blessing to my family at no extra cost to you!
Thank you for supporting us!
Motherhood is a beautiful journey filled with joy, love, and challenges. As a mom, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle of daily life and put yourself last on the list of priorities. However, taking care of your own needs is crucial for your well-being and your ability to care for others. In this blog post, we'll explore ten underrated tips for moms that will help you prioritize self-care, embrace imperfection, and create a harmonious home environment.
As a mom on a journey to transform my health and life, I have come across numerous books that have profoundly impacted my well-being. These ten books encompass a diverse range of topics, including natural healing, healthy living, childbirth, and personal growth. Each book has played a significant role in shaping my perspective and empowering me to make positive changes. Join me as I share the top 10 books that have changed my life for the better.
- Hypnobirthing: the Mongan Method by Marie Mongan: Marie Mongan's Hypnobirthing method is an invaluable resource for expectant mothers seeking a calm and empowering birth experience. This book taught me more than just techniques to manage pain and anxiety during labor, leading to a more positive birthing journey. It taught me to give birth without fear, and I went on to have pain-free birth!
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman, MD: Joel Fuhrman's Eat to Live is a groundbreaking book that emphasizes the importance of a nutrient-dense, plant-based diet. Through this book, I learned about the power of food as medicine, and how to nourish my body with wholesome, life-giving foods. The impact on my health has been huge, helping me overcome poor immune system function.
- Desk Reference for Essential Oils by Life Science Publishers: This comprehensive guide to essential oils has become my go-to resource for natural remedies and holistic well-being. It provides detailed information on various essential oils, their benefits, and practical applications, helping me harness the therapeutic properties of nature. It has been invaluable in helping me get through acute situations as well as solving long-term health issues.
- Lucy Libido by Lucy Libido: Lucy Libido's book offers a refreshing and empowering perspective on enhancing intimacy and sexual wellness. This book helped me embrace my femininity and prioritize self-care, leading to a more fulfilling and intimate relationship. For all you moms out there, this book rocks!
- Dissolving Illusions by Suzanne Humphries and Roman Bystrianyk: Dissolving Illusions challenges conventional wisdom surrounding vaccines and infectious diseases. It provides a well-researched exploration of historical data, allowing me to make informed decisions about my family's health.
- Atomic Habits by James Clear: In Atomic Habits, James Clear shares practical strategies for building and breaking habits effectively. This book helped me develop a growth mindset and implement small but significant changes in my daily routine, resulting in long-lasting positive transformations.
- The 21 Laws of Leadership in the Bible by John Maxwell: John Maxwell's book draws wisdom from biblical principles to inspire and guide leaders. It taught me invaluable lessons about integrity, influence, and character development, encouraging me to lead with purpose and authenticity.
- Prescription for Natural Healing by James Balch and Phyllis Balch: Prescription for Natural Healing is an essential guide for natural remedies and alternative therapies. It offers comprehensive information on various health conditions and holistic approaches to healing, empowering me to take charge of my well-being.
- Ina May's Guide to Breastfeeding by Ina May Gaskin: Ina May Gaskin's guide is a must-read for new mothers embarking on the breastfeeding journey. With practical advice, inspiring stories, and evidence-based information, I wish I had found this before my first child; it would have helped me immensely! This book can help you overcome challenges and establish a nurturing bond with your baby.
- Ningxia Wolfberry: The Ultimate Superfood by Gary Young, Ronald Lawrence, and Mark Schreuder: This book explores the incredible health benefits of Ningxia Wolfberries, a potent superfood. It delves into these berries' nutritional properties, antioxidants, and wellness-promoting qualities, inspiring me to incorporate them into my diet for enhanced vitality. This berry has changed my life!
These ten books have been instrumental in my personal transformation, guiding me towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. From childbirth to natural healing, personal growth to healthy living, each book has contributed to my overall well-being. I encourage you to explore these transformative works and discover the positive impact they can have on your own health journey.
My blogs contain some affiliate links.
Any purchase made is a blessing to my family at no extra cost to you!
Thank you for supporting us!
Being a mom is a beautiful and rewarding experience, but it's easy to get caught up in the mundane tasks of daily life. From changing diapers to preparing meals and managing household chores, it's easy to feel like life has become routine. However, a world of wonder and discovery is waiting for us beyond our everyday responsibilities. We can enrich our lives by embracing a sense of wonder, seeking new experiences, and challenging ourselves.
