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– RE BIRTHING BATH -Amazing must watch video
CAN YOU IMAGINE IF ALL FIRST BATHS WERE GIVEN LIKE THIS ???????? I love how she re created the whole birth experience for this child . What an awesome healing tool if your baby suffered any trauma during the birth process or had a C- section . So beautiful and calming just to watch !!!
While pregnant you are building a foundation for your child to grow from including their body , mind and spirit . The foods you eat literally feed your growing baby . You can build a weak foundation by feeding your baby fast , processed , hormone infested or non nutritious junk food. Or you can choice whole foods that actually feed your baby’s brain , bones , organs and cells such as organic , hormone free meats , fruits, vegetables, whole grains ….. The choice is yours , parenting begins in the womb . YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT AND YOUR CHILD WILL GROW FROM WHATEVER YOU DECIDE TO FEED THEM .
I am a BIG fan and huge supporter of doing yoga while pregnant as well as before and afterwards . Yoga is wonderful if you are trying to conceive , it opens your body up , frees toxins , increases blood flow to stagnant areas of your body and calms the nervous system . While pregnant its been proven the calmer you are the calmer your baby is , yoga helps create a peaceful state of being as well as a tranquil environment for your growing baby to thrive in . Afterwards it can help restore your body , energy and help relieve the stress of new mommy hood .
I only as of right now teach privately yin and restorative healing yoga to my clients , but there is something about going to a class and being part of a community of like minded people that are all going through the same thing . Also some might like more of a work out , I always recommend my dear friend Desi Bartlett’s class over at Exhale’s Center for Sacred Movement in Venice . Desi blends pre and postnatal yoga , spirituality and fitness all together and teaches a FABUlOUS class !!! I asked her a few questions about yoga …
How can yoga help with fertility ?
Yoga helps the mama to be to take time to reconnect with her body, and its natural rhythms. A female Yoga practitioner is called a Yogini, and many Yoginis that I know, are able to tell you the moment that they ovulate because the subtle awareness has been cultivated and refined. A woman who is in touch with her body’s voice, can also stay receptive to what her body needs to be most fertile.
why should a woman do yoga during her pregnancy ?
Labor and delivery can last several hours and requires strength, commitment and love. In my classes we do a lot of squats to increase lower body strength, as well as Kegel exercises for the vaginal muscles and pelvic floor. My goal is to assist women in their empowerment, so that they can go into labor and delivery trusting their physical strength and endurance, and of course stay connected to the beautiful baby that is arriving. We start the process the moment a pregnant goddess walks into the room. I encourage my students to talk to their beautiful babies, to remember that they are already mothers, and to cultivate their strength, so that they can call on it whenever they need; in pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the continuing journey of motherhood.
What 3 yoga poses are your favorite to help prepare for birth ?
Malasana (Yogi Squat)- I love this pose for strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. The pregnant mama can close her eyes, connect to her vaginal muscles, and do her Kegels in this pose. There are women all over the world who deliver their babies squatting, and gravity assists in productive pushing. I like to remind women that there is more than one way to deliver a baby, and to research this.Cat and Cow– The pregnant mama is on all fours and inhales as she lifts her heart and gaze to the sky. On the exhale, she rounds her spine and relaxes the head and neck. This helps to release tension in the low back, and connect to the breath. This is a very meditative exercise that can also be used to connect to the baby. Imagine the baby’s back to your belly, his or her head pointed down, and allow the belly to be a safe haven for growth and love.
Anahatasana– This is similar to child’s pose, but the hips stay elevated, and the pregnant mama can either come onto her forehead or her chin and chest. This pose is named for the energetic heart center and helps to connect to the feeling of a wide open heart. It also connects us to the feeling of being supported by mother earth.
How can yoga help with postpartum ?
Yoga is an amazing tool for helping to regulate all systems of the body. After a woman has given birth, the process of the body changing can be challenging. On the one hand, you think,’ I want my body back.’ On the other hand, there is a new body to love and find strength in. This new body is changing everyday. The uterus is returning to its normal size, the amount of blood volume is returning to normal, there is milk being created, there is a lot happening that can be a whole lot to handle. On top of that, the hormonal shifts can be huge, and finding a sense of steadiness or calm can be challenging. When you add postpartum depression into the mix, now the beautiful new mama has feelings that can feel bigger than her ability to handle. Yoga can help us to find that deep stillness that is ever present. In the eye of this storm of change, her root is still there. Her connection to mother earth and to all that is, is still there. Slowing down, listening to the steadiness of the breath and then working up a sweat (to help detoxify the body), can be extremely healing and centering.What are your top 3 yoga poses to get your body back after having a baby?
Navasana (Boat pose)– This looks sort of like an inverted pike position. The new mama can generate fire in her belly, connect to her core strength and reclaim it. These muscles have been on hiatus, so they will get fiery very quickly. Start with 3-5 breaths, and be patient and kind to yourself as you work your way into longer holds.Shalabasana (locust pose)– This looks just like superman:) Lay on your belly, extend your arms in front, and simultaneously lift your upper and lower body. This exercise will strengthen your low back extensors, and it feels so good to lay on your belly again!Chaturanga– This is the down phase of a push up with your elbows pointed back towards your feet. This helps to cultivate core strength, as well as upper body strength. I love this pose for anyone looking to increase strength in their core and triceps.Also, walking is a fantastic complement for Yoga. Burning 50 calories twice a day will help you to get back into shape very quickly.
contact info – desibartlett@gmail.comDesi teaches her pre and post natal yoga classes on … Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:45am at Exhale’s Center for Sacred Movement
Desi Bartlett M.S., CPT, has been teaching health and wellness for over 18 years. Her innovative approach to teaching is to tap into one’s inner joy and let movement be an outer expression of that state. Originally from Chicago, she has earned a degree in Kinesiology, a minor in dance and her Master’s degree in Corporate Fitness. Desi holds advanced certifications in Yoga, Personal Training, Pre & Post Natal Fitness and Group Fitness. She is also a continuing education provider through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and the National Council for Personal Trainers. In 2010 Desi was named the national spokesperson for Fruit 2 o, a division of Sunny Delight and appeared during a segment of the Today show to promote their ‘Small Changes’ campaign.Desi’s inspiring and unique classes have been featured on networks such as ABC, FOX, Univision and Lifetime. In 2005, Desi was named ambassador for Lululemon Athletica. In that same year, she helped open Equinox Fitness in Santa Monica as their Group Fitness Manager. In early 2006 she was a presenter for NikeFitnessAcademy at the University of Southern California and also worked as the product director of fitness for Gaiam, teaching ‘Yoga Dance Fusion,’ at Gaiam’s 10th annual LOHAS conference. As an extension of her relationship with Lululemon Athletica, Desi designed the first round Yoga mat on the market, the 360 mat. She created a special class format based on the design of the mat, which is called 360 Yoga-Flow. Desi also filmed her 2009 Prenatal Yoga DVD on the 360 mat, inviting in a feeling of freedom to the movement for expecting moms. Desi is passionate about helping moms throughout the journey into motherhood and has been a contributing writer on the subject for both LA Yoga Magazine, and Alicia Silverstone’s *Kind Life* website.Desi has multiple DVD’s available at mass retailers including;’ 3 in1 Total Body Fitness,’ a triathlon style, full body workout, that combines 30 minutes of strength training to sculpt and tone; 30 minutes of cardio to train your heart, boost your energy and endurance; and 30 minutes of flexibility training and stretching to lengthen muscles and open stiff joints. ‘Yoga for Beginners,’ includes two unique practices, one an active, easy flow for complete body toning, the other slower and deeper for building long, lean muscles.There is much more to come from Desi, so sit back, relax and stay centered.
Something I always suggest my clients do after the birth of their baby is to take their baby to see an osteopath & get cranial sacral therapy. I have been seeing Dr. Hakimi for years now and highly recommend him to all my peps , he does a combination of the two plus so much more . 
Dr. Payam Hakimi is the medical director of Body of Harmony in Beverly Hills. He practices Integrative Medicine [individualized combination of western medicine and alternative medical therapies] using his knowledge and experience as a Family Physician, Doctor of Osteopathy, and Clinical Homeopathy. I asked him a few questions , why it is important for your child to have these kind of treatment done after birth ,below are the questions and his answers .
What is an osteopath ?
In United States Doctors of Osteopathy [D.O.] are traditional medical doctors with additional training in structural integration of the body. Most DO’s practice western medicine as their MD counterparts. Only about 3-5% of DO’s practice the art of structural manipulations, an Osteopath. Anywhere outside of United States Osteopaths do not go through medical training and thus only use manipulation as treatment modality.
One of the tenets of Osteopathy is the relationship between the structure and function: Structural trauma (lesion) can create restrictions in motion and flow (dis-ease) causing physiological changes in the area which leads to other issues. Removing the structural restrictions will re-establish normal flow and optimum health.
After medical and structural evaluations Osteopaths employ a variety of manual technics to release structural tension and misalignment hence improving the flow of nerve impulses, blood, and lymph to the affected tissue.
What is cranial sacral therapy ?
Cranial Osteopathy a.k.a. cranio-sacral therapy and cranial sacral therapy is applying the Osteopathic principles to the cranial bones to ascertain their inherent mobility.
Different parts of the brain are involved in processing and controlling specific bodily functions. Electrical activity of the brain is organized by chemical stimulation of neurotransmitters and hormones. You can appreciate the abnormalities that can result if there is too much or too little concentration of these chemicals, oxygen, nutrients, andwaste products in any part of the brain. For example, sleep issues are related to the abnormality of the movements of occipital bones, which encase Reticular Activating System (command center for sleep and wake cycle) of the brain.
Why is it important for your child to have a treatment after it is born ?
Natural process of birth is important since the contractions of the uterus and the force of the pelvic bones create an opportunity to help the new born to clear amniotic fluid fromthe sinuses, lungs, and guts. However, at times due to the structural and physiological issues there is more stress on the structure of the newborn, either through the birth canal, C-section, or using vacuums and forceps.
Although the body’s natural tendency towards health resolves most of these issues over time, this process is at the detriment of an uncomfortable child and their parents. Between these issues some have been researched and proven to benefit from the use of cranial osteopathy and others have been treated experientially: problem latching and suckling and feeding and reflux, colicky pains, ear infections, poor sleep, irritation and behavioral issues, craniosynostosis and other face and jaw abnormalities and molded head, torticollis and neck movement issues, cerebral palsy, shoulder dystocia, abnormalities of the spine and rib cage and hips, leg length discrepancy, and any other structural abnormalities.
How can it help with their development ?
Babies grow and develop through the growth of their structure, nervous system and senses, and other organs. A colicky irritated baby or one who has chronic ear infections and on multiple rounds of antibiotics can have problems with yeast overgrowth, allergies and eczema, failure in physical growth, and even issues with speech and learning disabilities as they age.
Thus, the earlier these problems are resolved the better future outcome they will have and less stress on the body.
When is the best time to have them come to you ?
It is recommended that all newborns receive an Osteopathic evaluation as soon as possible. Some parents plan that their newborn is seen during the first 24 hours after birth and as soon as any issues are noticed.
The first years of life are about structural and physiological growth, learning to stand, walk, and run. Falls and head bangs can introduce a torsion in the structure of the body or cranium which may result in other issues in the future, like scoliosis, growing pains, constipation, enuresis, and short-leg syndrome. Plan check up visits when the baby is one month, three months, 6 months, 1 year and 2 years old to make sure there is normal structural growth.
Can Osteopathic treatments help children with neurological problems ?
As the soft bones and weak joints of the skull negotiate through the pelvic bones at the time of delivery they can get distorted and put pressure on the nerves and the nervous system. Nerve root compression and shoulder dystocia are common reasons to see an Osteopath after delivery.
Recent studies have demonstrated the presence of cranial bone misalignment in other neurological problems such as Autism, Asperger’s, Cerebral Palsy, ADD, and ADHD. Other case studies have shown a positive outcome with Osteopathic treatments. List of positive outcomes include: speaking more words, more eye contact with caregiver, increased concentration, calmer mood, and increased mobility.
For more info about Dr Hakimi go to –
Contact info –
Payam Hakimi, DO, ABFP
Diplomate American Board of Family Physicians
Teaching Faculty Center for Education & Development of Clinical Homeopathy
Adjunct Assistant Professor Osteopathy & Family Medicine Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Clinical Assistant Professor of Family Medicine Western University of Health Sciences
1. In 1980, one in every 53 babies born in the United States was a twin. By 2009, that number had risen to one in 30, according to a new brief released by the National Center for Health Statistics. Over the three decades, the twin birth rate (number of twins per 1,000 births) rose 76%.2. Chances of having a twin pregnancy is increased by maternal age (30+)3. Fraternal twining is genetically predisposed and the result of a woman releasing more than one egg at the same time4. Identical twins are the result of a random split of a single egg and cannot be genetically predisposed5. Male twins will not have twins unless their wives have the ability to produce two eggs6. Identical twins share the same DNA but do not have the same fingerprints7. 1 in 250 pregnancies can result in identical twins8. 22 % percent of twins are left handed compared to 10% in singeltons9. Fraternal twin girls have twice the chance of giving birth to twins than singletons10. Vanishing twin syndrome- 15-20% percent of all twin pregnancies will miscarry one fetus11. Some estimates suggest 1 in 8 people started life as a twin while 1 in 70 actually are a twin12. Once you have fraternal twins you are 3 to 4 times more likely to have another set!13. Nigeria has the highest rate of multiple births and more identical twins14. China has the lowest rate for multiple births averaging 1 in 30015. A study shows vegans are five times less likely to have twins than women who consume diary16. Polar bears most commonly give birth to twins and on rare occasions triplets17. Examining 3D ultrasound images, a study in Padova, Italy found fetuses start deliberately interacting at 14 weeks18. 40 % of twins invent their own language19. Over 50 % of twins are born before 37 weeks20. The average birthweight for a twin is 5lb 5 oz
Always a good reminder ……
Nothing is worse then being constipated in general but especially awful when you are pregnant !!! Here is a little muffin that will help get things moving right along in the body . Make sure to drink lots of water along with it .
Here is the original recipe from Dr Oz
Jorge’s Skinny Muffin http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/jorge-cruise-energy-boosting-recipes
Traditional energy bars are often packed with sugar, which can cause a spike and a subsequent crash. These muffins are designed to provide sustainable energy that lasts through lunch, thanks to coconut oil, a healthy fat that’s good for your brain, fiber-rich flaxseed and egg protein.
Ingredients
Makes one serving
1/4-cup ground flax
1 tsp baking powder
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp coconut oil
1 egg
1 packet stevia
Directions
Mix all ingredients together in a mug and microwave for 50 seconds. Allow to cool to a safe temperature and enjoy!
Below is our version-
Lori And Jamie’s “POOP BOMB ”
1 &1/3 cup ground flax mixed with goji berry
1 Tablespoon of chia seeds
1 handful of cocao nips
3 diced prunes
1/4 apple diced up
1 tsp baking powder
1 teaspoon of vanilla
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp coconut oil
1 egg
1 &1/2 – tablespoons of honey ( you can add a bit more if you want for sweetness )
Mix all together in large mug. Eyeballing it, make sure its thick like paste if not add more of the flax and goji powder mixture.
Microwave for 1:20 -1:45 minutes
Cool for 5 minutes, take out of mug then cut in half makes 2 muffins. Top with earth balance butter spread, butter, honey, jam or just eat plain .
Break down of what this muffin does for you.
Coconut oil– High in omegas, great for your skin, depression and feeds both you and your baby’s brain. I am OBSESSED with coconut oil there are so many healing benefits. Here is a great article on it -http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/organic-coconut-oil/health-benefits-of-coconut-oil.html
Flax – High in omegas (omegas help with depression) , flax is high in fiber and helps with constipation and feeds both you and your baby’s brain.
Goji Berries (powder) – High in iron, antioxidant and high in vitamin C . Goji berries are known as one of the most nutrient rich super foods on the planet. Helps with vitality, stamina, energy and longevity
Chia seeds – Fiber , high in omega fatty acid and antioxidants
Honey – Antioxidant, fights infection , helps reduce inflammation and scarring and aids in digestion .
Eggs– High in protein, amino acids, omegas, helps regulate brain and nervous system because of levels of choline.
Cocao – Rich in antioxidants, great source of fiber, high in magnesium, iron and other minerals. (Mineral deficiency can contribute to depression), good for energy and depression.
Prunes – Eliminates constipation , high in antioxidants , high in potassium and high in fiber.
Apple – Prevents constipation , detoxifies the body , helps aid in digestion and high in fiber.
*For the super foods I always use Navitas brand they are fabulous http://www.navitasnaturals.com/products/ check out their site for even more amazing recipes.
There is nothing more frustrating then longing for and wanting something so badly and it not happening . I have worked with countless woman through the ups and downs of fertility and have helped them overcome emotionally the disappointment of failed treatments and not getting pregnant when they had hoped.
we live in a world these days where we all want the quick fix , people want to be happy so they take a pill , they want to be skinny so they take another pill , some want to be married so badly they settle for far less then they deserve and others want a baby NOW so they do countless fertility treatments . There are no quick fixes ” Babies come into this world how and when they are ready. ” Just because you are ready to have a baby doesn’t mean that child is ready to come into this world and be born yet . We all have our own divine timing.
I have to say this because this is something I never knew before I started working with fertility clients . I always thought if I couldn’t have a baby , no big deal I would do in vitro and have a kid . I am here to say you don’t always get pregnant with in vitro . It sometimes takes a few times before or if you actually get pregnant . Woman don’t always tell you just how many times it took or what they went through in the process . I am not saying fertility treatments aren’t good , they are and have helped so many woman have children , just know that It might not happen right away , again divine timing .
I was working with a woman who went through years of fertility treatments , she always had this deep inner knowing and had countless dreams about a baby girl . We did a visualization which I do with my clients to call in their baby and we both saw a girl . She already had a name picked out for her . She under went a few more fertility treatments which failed and again , leaving her feeling defeated . She cried saying she did everything right and screamed why isn’t it happening ?? She did do everything right , she was amazing . We spoke about timing . I compared it to something I was going through and was having a hard time with , same thing just a different situation . I am ready to meet my husband, I told her , Im doing everything right and yet it hasn’t happened yet . Im frustrated because I am so ready to share my life with someone but just because I am ready doesn’t mean that he is ready yet . Once again its not just my timing but I am working with someone else’s as well . After that I had her focus on doing something she had been wanting to work on or do in the meantime . She started working on starting a non profit foundation , took a few months off fertility treatments and got pregnant .
When you can surrender and trust Gods timing , there is a reason why things don’t happen when you want them to . You don’t always get why right away but in time its always revealed .
By the way my client just gave birth to that baby girl that she always knew she was going to have and named her daughter the name she always knew she would call her . We spoke the other day about timing and she said in retrospect , if it happened any earlier she wouldn’t be doing the amazing work in the world that she is starting to do and her husband and her wouldn’t have had the few years together to build the solid foundation of a married couple they now have if They had had a baby right away .. so you just never know why things don’t happen when you want them too .
I know how hard it is to do – Don’t give up , let go and give it to God and trust divine timing that there is a bigger purpose in it all . I promise you it might not make sense right now why it’s not happening but in time you will get why . 
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