As your due date nears, the reality of impending parenthood can be both exciting and overwhelming. You may be getting nervous or have anxiety around when you’ll go into labor. You may be stressing about getting the nursery ready or finalizing details for your maternity leave. That’s why planning and enjoying a big night out can provide a special opportunity to unwind, connect, and relish your partner’s company before your baby’s arrival takes center stage. I always encourage clients to schedule a “no holds barred” date night around 37 or 38 weeks - it’s a chance to take a deep breath, enjoy some quality time together, and remind yourselves why you’re a great team. Orange County offers an array of high-end, memorable spots to make this final pre-baby date night one for the books.
In the quiet hush of the labor & delivery room, where the air is charged with anticipation and the scent of earthiness and birthyness, a new chapter in your life unfolds. The rhythmic cadence of your breath is mirrored by the gentle whispers of your doula, a reassuring presence in this oh so sacred moment. The culmination of nine months… maybe more, leads to this: the first hour with your newborn.
When I was selecting items for my baby registry, it was really important to me to not go overboard. As a doula of 14 years, I’ve seen families get overwhelmed with the amount of stuff in their homes and nurseries and I knew I wanted to keep things on the simpler side. I also wanted to be mindful of the impact on not only the environment, but also my baby’s microbiome - which meant finding a lot of eco-friendly products to keep waste down and keep our home as “low tox” as possible. Here you’ll find some of my favorite sustainable and most useful items that I registered for.
Pregnancy is an amazingly transformative time.
It isn’t always fun… morning sickness, anyone?
Pregnancy can sometimes mean you miss out on the exciting adventures your friends are having. No rollercoasters or skydiving for you!
But there are a few things that are only fun to do if you are pregnant!
Do you need a pick-me-up or want a list of things to do to make the most of your pregnancy? We’ve got lots of great ideas to keep you entertained through each trimester.
Vitamins A, C, and K, and folate enhance your baby’s cell, brain, nervous system, and bone development, plus vitamin C boosts your immunity.
Bursting with vitamins and antioxidants, this green drink is an ideal way to start the day. Use any combination of fruits and/or vegetables. Some popular vegetables and greens include cucumbers, celery, avocado, baby spinach, and kale. Protein powders and powdered milk will give you extra nutrition. Don’t worry about making too much green drink. It’s delish the next day. Give it a stir and you’re good to go.
Pregnancy can be one of the most overwhelming seasons of life. Your attention is pulled in so many different directions with so many decisions to make: Where should I give birth? What do I want to include in my birth plan? Should I hire a doula? What color do I want to paint the nursery? Where should we register?
That, plus the world around you doesn't stop just because you're growing a baby. There's still your job to think about, your family, and your social commitments. Trying to keep up with a busy schedule while coming to grips with the realities of being a parent can send anyone spinning. The constant demands of life can be a perfect storm for stress and anxiety.
Tell me you can relate.
If I just described your life, finding a way to introduce mindfulness & balance into your pregnancy is a MUST. Regular mindfulness practices will provide you with tools to keep a positive outlook and a level head through the challenges of pregnancy and parenting.
